Richard Goodall’s story is one to inspire. The “singing janitor” in the empty hallways of school to the national stage of “America’s Got Talent,” he has captivated his audience with a beautiful performance of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'”, and it’s no surprise that the track has become his signature song. But it’s his more recent A Cappella performance, featuring middle school students, that’s been making waves on social media–––and that too for all the right reason.
On October 11, Goodall dropped a TikTok video that has since taken the internet by storm, racking up over 2 million views. In the video, Goodall, standing center court in a school gymnasium, delivering beautiful performance of the iconic Don’t Stop Believin’ cover—featuring an A cappella, with no musical instruments at all. What makes the performance even more remarkable is that he’s joined by a group of enthusiastic students, singing along and attempting the high notes. As Goodall encouraged them, the students—clearly inspired by his energy—gave it their all. It was a beautiful moment of connection and joy.
@kllychls #RichardGoodall made a surprise appearance to talk with our students! Then performed acappella with our kids! It was the sweetest moment! #DontStopBelieving #Journey @JOURNEY ♬ origineel geluid – no sound
Richard Goodall’s path to fame didn’t follow the usual celebrity route. Before stepping into the America’s Got Talent spotlight, Goodall worked as a janitor at a middle school. But his life transformed over the course of AGT Season 19, when he decided to audition. His powerful rendition of Don’t Stop Believin’ stunned the judges and won him the Golden Buzzer from Heidi Klum. That moment catapulted him to the live shows and led him to winning the AGT trophy and the $1 million grand prize.
Goodall’s rise from janitor to AGT winner is incredible! He often speaks about how his life’s Journey, including his family and the students at his school, played a massive part in making this dream a reality. “At my age, it was a culmination,” he said in an interview with NBC Insider. “Between the kids [at my school] and then [my wife] Ang. You don’t choose TV; TV chooses you. And when they come-a-calling Ang said, ‘You’ve got to go.'”
Richard Goodall perform at his hometown
Goodall’s a cappella performance in the school gym is a perfect example of how he connects with his fans. No backing band. No special effects. Just a man, his voice, and a group of students who were clearly moved by his presence. His performance had that raw, emotional energy that first drew audiences to him on AGT—and it didn’t take long for social media to catch fire.
The teacher who posted the TikTok video summed it up perfectly: “Richard Goodall made a surprise appearance to talk with our students! Then we performed a cappella with our kids! It was the sweetest moment!” This simple yet powerful performance reminds us all of the magic that happens when people come together to create something unique.
Richard Goodall Receives The GOLDEN BUZZER For “Don’t Stop Believin'” | Auditions | AGT 2024
Goodall’s ties to Don’t Stop Believin’ extend beyond the moment on stage. His anthem song was now in full force and had enamored AGT judges and audiences alike. That was the song he performed when he auditioned, and it’s the one that got him Heidi Klum’s Golden Buzzer. The song, with its hopeful message and emotional power, mirrored Goodall’s own Journey—against the odds, he was able to take his shot and make it count.
“It speaks for itself,” Goodall told Judge Simon Cowell during his audition, explaining why he chose Don’t Stop Believin’. And it’s true—the song, just like Goodall’s story, is about perseverance, hope, and never giving up on your dreams.
Journey and Richard Goodall Sing Together in the Finals! | AGT 2024 Final
Now that he’s a winner, a household name, Goodall hasn’t forgotten his roots. Whether he’s at any stage in the world or singing with a group of students in a gym, he shows the same authenticity and passion in all endeavors. His experience has encouraged thousands of people to continue the journey — no matter how challenging the path ahead might look.
So, what’s next for Richard Goodall? Well, after his victory, he’s not resting on his achievements. He’s already looking ahead to new projects, collaborations, and ways to continue sharing his music with the world. “What a way to endon this rollercoaster,” he said after winning AGT. “Just absolutely amazing.”
Whether he’s on stage with Journey or performing in a school gym, Goodall is proof that no dream is too big and that every moment is an opportunity to inspire others.