Roman Collins delivered several fabulous performances on American Idol, Season 22, including this stunning cover of James Brown’s “This is a Man’s World.” Check it out!

Originally from Natchitoches, Louisiana, 24-year-old Roman Collins received some advice when he initially auditioned for Katy, Luke, and Lionel. Ms. Perry said, “Roman, I'm gonna give you a little critique. I love it all. You are so great at the gospel gig but keep showing us different parts of you.” 

Roman received three “yeses” and went on to make it to the final twelve, but he was eliminated on April 22. During his stint on American Idol, he blessed audiences with his stirring performances and gave glory to God along the way.

If you happen to be only vaguely familiar with James Brown’s “This is a Man’s World,” you may have missed the “woman or a girl” part. You will definitely catch it with Roman’s rendition. There is so much to enjoy about this performance!

Dressed in orange and black, Roman’s performance is more spooky good than Halloween scary. The lighting adds drama, but Roman doesn’t rely on the staging to make an impact. His sound is soulful and varied—with riffs throughout and cackle-laughs when he mentions the ladies. He’s very expressive and energetic, wrapping up the performance with a few quick, high steps just before dropping to his knees at 1:20.    

Roman now lives in Long Beach, CA, and supports himself by working as a worship minister, musician, and car cleaner. He wears a cross tattoo on his right arm, a witness to his faith.    

During Roman’s April 15 performance on American Idol, he wowed judges with his performance of “Never Would’ve Made It.” Before singing, audiences saw a video during which Roman’s dad shared the terrifying medical event that occurred when Roman was only three. The toddler went into a diabetic coma, and doctors feared that if he ever woke, he may have brain damage. Roman did wake up, and he hasn’t stopped singing since!   

Following that performance, Judge Lionel Richie said, “Let the church say Amen,” and the audience responded in unison, “Amen!” He went on to assure Roman, adding “God has a plan for you.” 

Blake Shelton said, “It was one of the most powerful things I’ve ever seen on this show.”

Roman won’t be on the 2024 American Idol, but he certainly made his mark! And, he glorified God at each step along the way!

Way to go, Roman!

“I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.” Psalm 69:30