Richard Goodall’s story is one of remarkable perseverance and heartwarming inspiration. Growing up in Terre Haute, Indiana, Richard’s path to stardom began in the most unexpected way: as a janitor. For years, he worked joyfully and diligently cleaning the halls of Chauncey Rose Middle School, all the while honing his voice in the quiet solitude of the hallways. Little did he know, his love for music would eventually be the key that opened the door to a career on a global stage. Known for his soulful performances and infectious enthusiasm, Richard became a household name after winning America’s Got Talent (AGT) in 2023, marking a life-changing moment in his career.
But Richard’s journey didn’t start in front of the cameras or on a grand stage. It started in the unlikeliest of places — the echoing corridors of a middle school, where he would sing to the empty halls and, later, to the kids as they passed by. His voice, full of power and soul, caught the attention of those who heard it. That chance discovery led to a viral video that ultimately propelled him to the AGT stage, where his talent and genuine humility captivated millions.
Through his time on AGT, Richard made a lasting impression with his raw, powerful vocals and humble nature. Despite his national recognition, he remains grounded, still working as a janitor and staying true to his roots in Terre Haute. As he prepares for his 2025 tour, Richard’s career is only just beginning. We caught up with him to talk about his journey, his inspirations, his AGT win, and what’s next for this humble powerhouse of talent.
GC: Richard, it’s so great to talk to you. Just walk us through that moment when your name was announced as the winner of AGT. What was going through your mind?
RG: Not really much of anything. I’m a guy, and I, you know, I just didn’t have any expectations. It was just absolutely the most fun time I’ve ever had in my whole life.
GC: I love that so much, and you just looked like you were having the time of your life, too. You can just tell.
RG: You can tell. Absolutely, yeah.
GC: Your journey has really inspired so many. Where did you get your start singing?
RG: Singing in the hallways, basically. I mean, you know, I was just found because I was singing to the kids on a YouTube video, so yeah. I’ve been singing for years, but it was just, you know, hometown stuff. Yeah, karaoke, and then singing to the kids, and I was in a gospel trio, two different gospel trios for about eight years.
GC: Amazing. That really builds your chops.
RG: Yeah, COVID hit, and then, you know, shut everything down, and then here I am today.
GC: It’s incredible. How were you brought up on stage? You always sang to the kids in the hallways, but was there anyone specific that really encouraged you to perform?
RG: Oh, every year. Every year I would get up. Usually, it was “God Bless USA” during like Veterans Day programs or what have you. But there was quite a few where they would have talent shows, and the one that got me discovered was actually a talent show/graduation, you know, fifth grade moving on to sixth grade into middle school. Everything happened very quickly. If it wasn’t for the internet, I wouldn’t be talking to you right now.
GC: Let me ask this, how did your background as a janitor shape your approach to music? Is there any connection there?
RG: Early in the morning, from about 6 a.m. to 7 a.m., I’m by myself. I’m the one that turns on the heater or the air conditioner, making sure everything’s running and then going to janitor mode. But, in the mornings, I’m just belting out in the hallway because there’s nobody else around, and then when I finally hear a teacher, and they’re like, “Ah, sounds good,” I kind of tone it down a little bit, haha.
GC: Right, it’s like your version of singing in the shower.
RG: Yeah, exactly right. It was like, you know, each morning it was like, you know, warming up my vocals for a concert performance, only, you know, it just took, you know, 23 years to get there.
GC: Absolutely, but you know, it just goes to show that your singing even then brought so much joy. It just goes to show that music really is so important, no matter where you are in your career at any point in time.
RG: You never know where it might impact someone, so yeah. You know, I sing to five people as I would to, you know, 2,500 because you just never know, and in this day and age it’s even more so true because, you know, everybody’s got a cell phone in their hand, and that camera ends up putting something on, you know, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and the next thing you know you’re singing to thousands, so yeah.
GC: Going on to talk about people that have really impacted you — you’ve credited your wife Angie as your biggest cheerleader. How did her support influence your decision to audition, and how has she now been involved in this new chapter of your career?
RG: Well, it was a combination between the kids and Angie. When, you know, AGT put plane tickets on my phone, she was just like, “You’ve got to go.” I didn’t want to go. I didn’t want to go by myself, and she’s like, “Well, just put your big boy pants on and get out there because you’re going to make a name for yourself now.” And I’m like, okay, and I did.
GC: Oh, amazing. I just love that.
RG: Yes, so as far as show-wise, those were my inspirations.
GC: Winning the show comes with national recognition. How are you using this platform to further your music career?
RG: I’m definitely working on some original music. It might not be ready at the start of the tour, but hopefully by mid-2025 we’ll have something to share. I’m collaborating with some local artists, and I’m really excited to see how it turns out.
GC: That’s fantastic! I was super curious about your original music since your covers are fantastic. Do you write all of your music, or do you work with co-writers?
RG: I work with co-writers. The more you write, the easier it gets. It’s definitely a muscle you have to build.
GC: Absolutely! So, your 2025 tour kicks off soon with stops in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana. What can fans expect from your live shows?
RG: Fans can expect a lot of great music and fun! It’s all about leaving your worries behind, getting into the music, and enjoying the time we have together. I can’t wait to perform in my home state!
GC: I love that. And as I’ve heard, you’re very inspired by powerhouse groups from the 70s and 80s. Are there any songs we can expect to hear on the tour?
RG: Definitely! You might hear some 38 Special, some Survivor, and a little Foreigner. Also, classics like “Stand By Me” and “Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone.” We stick to the good stuff.
GC: That sounds so fun — and you do them well! You got a nod from Steve Perry for your Journey cover on social media. That’s such an incredible compliment!
RG: Yeah, it still blows my mind. He’s one of my favorite vocalists, so hearing him compliment my version of his song was surreal.
GC: You’ve gone from local performances to a global stage. How have your roots in Terre Haute kept you grounded?
RG: I’m still the same person. I still work at the school, and nothing’s changed in that sense. People might be starstruck, but I’m just “Mr. Richard” to the kids. At the end of the day, I’m still doing what I love, in the community I love.
GC: That’s so humbling to hear. Now, with the 20th season of America’s Got Talent approaching, what would you say to someone considering auditioning?
RG: AGT is a huge platform, and I still can’t believe I won. If someone like me—a regular guy—can win, I believe this is the year for more regular people to shine again. Season 20 is going to be amazing. I think this year is for the “ordinary” people to win again.
GC: Absolutely! Your story proves that dreams can come true, no matter where you start. Thank you so much for your time today, Richard. We can’t wait to see everything you do next!
RG: Thank you! I’m excited for the future and can’t wait to share it with everyone.
Keep up with Richard Goodall on his social media or website, and find his upcoming tour dates here.
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