South Mississippi’s ‘American Idol’ star draws huge crowd to hometown concert
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- Daniel Stallworth returned to Moss Point for a free hometown concert.
- Hundreds of people nearly filled Jerry D. Alexander Stadium to see hour-long set.
- Stallworth’s set included guest appearances by his brother and father.
After spending three months performing on national television, American Idol star Daniel Stallworth returned home to put on a free concert at Jerry D. Alexander Stadium in Moss Point.
Stallworth’s time on the reality singing competition ended last week after he made the final seven. Following his exit from the show, Stallworth announced last Wednesday that he would be returning to home for a concert at his alma mater, Moss Point High School.
Hundreds of people were in attendance, nearly filling the home stands at Jerry D. Alexander Stadium for the opening act led by James “Jay 3” McGhee. By time Stallworth took to the field for the main act, the crowd was roaring with excitement to see their hometown hero’s hour-long set.
For attendees like Fonda Hargett, it was “very exciting” to see Moss Point represented on national television during the three-month period Stallworth was on American Idol. “I stopped watching after he was gone,” Hargett said.
Stallworth’s set included a range of songs including “A Whole New World,” “It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over” and “Outstanding.” The set was also interspersed with moments where Stallworth reflected on his journey and what it meant to represent Moss Point and Mississippi on national television. “A few years ago I didn’t see myself right here,” Stallworth said.
Midway through the concert, Stallworth invited his brother Gary to the stage, with the two embracing during the performance. Daniel Stallworth’s father Dan was also invited on stage to sing alongside his son. “It did my heart good,” said Dan Stallworth after having the chance to sing with his son.
The concert ended with a prayer led by Keith Blumfield and fans had the chance to take pictures and meet Daniel Stallworth outside the stadium.
For Dan Stallworth, seeing his son perform over the last three months on American Idol and the community turnout for Tuesday’s show was a proud moment for his family. “We’re well-pleased with what he’s done because he’s done a great job on this journey,” said Dan Stallworth. “He’s been doing a great job, so I thank God for it, I truly thank God.”