Richard Goodall captured the hearts of millions with his stunning rendition of “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey on America’s Got Talent. But what you saw on TV is only a small part of his story. Richard’s journey from a small-town janitor to an internet sensation is filled with unexpected twists and turns that America’s Got Talent didn’t show you. This is the story of a man who proved that dreams can come true at any stage of life.
Richard Goodall, a junior from Terre Haute, Indiana, earned the golden buzzer during season 19 of America’s Got Talent—something every contestant dreams of. His moment was nothing short of sensational, heartwarming, and breathtaking. But behind his success lies a secret that is both emotional and inspiring. What we uncovered about Richard Goodall will leave you in shock.
But before we dive into those details, let’s take a look at his early life and the struggles that pushed him to stardom. Richard was born and raised in a small town in Indiana, United States. He grew up in a family that couldn’t provide for his every need but gave their unwavering support. Richard discovered his musical talent at an early age and began nurturing it. His Radio Shack stereo was his closest companion; he would often lock himself up in his bedroom, singing along with his favorite songs and dreaming of a future that seemed perpetually out of reach.
In high school, Richard joined the choir, which allowed him to develop his vocal abilities. Over the years, his passion for music grew, leading him to join a gospel choir. As an adult, he sang with the gospel choir for 8 years until it was shut down during the coronavirus pandemic. Richard’s passion for music was born out of a desire to impact lives. As a simple guy, Richard cared less about fancy things and was only committed to achieving his dreams. However, as he grew older, the responsibilities of life and the need for financial stability took precedence over his musical aspirations. With college out of reach, Richard needed to find a stable income to sustain his basic needs, unsure of which path to follow.
He took up a job as a janitor at Chony Rose Middle School, a job that was degrading but sustainable. The job offered him a sense of stability, even though it didn’t satisfy his deepest passion. Richard took great pride in his work and performed it diligently, turning mundane tasks into memorable moments for students and teachers. For 23 years, he never failed to take out the trash, sweep the floor, and wipe the tables, ensuring the environment was safe and habitable for the students and teachers.
Despite the humble nature of his job, Richard remained undeterred in his pursuit of music. While performing his duties, Richard would belt out some tunes, filling the hallway with his melodious voice. His performances didn’t go unnoticed; students and teachers were enthralled by his voice. They praised him for his unique talent and urged him to take his skills beyond the confines of Indiana. This boosted his confidence and reignited his determination to pursue his dreams.
