5 Unforgettable Moments From Richard Goodall’s Journey: The Singing Janitor Who Rocked The Stage With Journey

The fairy-tale rise of Richard Goodall, the humble school janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, culminated in a dream collaboration that stunned millions. As of December 2025, the story of the man affectionately known as "Mr. Richard" remains one of the most powerful and feel-good narratives in recent entertainment history, all thanks to a voice perfectly suited for arena-rock anthems, especially those from the legendary band Journey. His viral fame, sparked by a Golden Buzzer moment on America's Got Talent, reached its zenith when he shared the stage with the band's co-founder, Neal Schon, a moment that cemented his transition from a school hallway performer to a global sensation.

This article dives deep into the specific details of Richard Goodall’s momentous performance with members of Journey, exploring not only the electrifying finale but also the biographical background, the classic rock passion that fueled his success, and the exciting career moves—including the release of his own original music—that have followed his incredible Season 19 victory. Goodall's journey is a powerful testament to the idea that it is never too late to pursue a lifelong passion, proving that a custodian's heart can hold a stadium-sized voice.

Richard Goodall: A Janitor's Journey to Stardom - Full Profile

Richard Goodall's life before the glitz of Hollywood was one of dedicated, quiet service, which only makes his sudden rise to fame more compelling. His biography is a testament to hidden talent and perseverance.

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• Full Name: Richard Goodall
• Born: 1969
• Age: 56 (as of late 2025)
• Hometown: Terre Haute, Indiana, USA
• Primary Occupation: School Custodian/Janitor (worked for over two decades at a middle school)
• Nickname: "Mr. Richard" or "The Singing Janitor"
• Claim to Fame: Winner of America's Got Talent (AGT) Season 19 (2024)
• Signature AGT Songs: "Don't Stop Believing" (Journey - Golden Buzzer Audition), "Faithfully" (Journey - Finals Performance), "Old Time Rock and Roll" (Bob Seger)
• Notable Collaborations: Performed with Neal Schon and other members of Journey on the AGT Season 19 Finale.
• Original Music Debut: "Long Time Coming" (Released August 29, 2025)
• Inspiration: Classic Rock and Soulful Ballads, particularly the music of Journey.

The Electric Finale: Goodall Sings "Don't Stop Believing" with Journey

The moment Richard Goodall sang with Journey was not just a collaboration; it was a symbolic passing of the torch and the ultimate fulfillment of a dream. The performance took place during the highly anticipated Season 19 finale of America's Got Talent on September 24, 2024. It was the culmination of his entire run on the show, which began with the same iconic song.

A Full-Circle Moment on the AGT Stage

Goodall’s audition, a show-stopping rendition of "Don't Stop Believing," earned him the Golden Buzzer from judge Heidi Klum and instantly made him a viral sensation. His ability to channel the power and soul of the classic rock era, reminiscent of original Journey frontman Steve Perry, captivated the audience and judges alike.

For the finale, the stakes were raised when he was joined on stage by Journey’s co-founder and lead guitarist, Neal Schon, along with other members of the band. The sight of the singing janitor standing side-by-side with one of classic rock's most enduring figures to belt out their signature anthem was an emotional, once-in-a-lifetime television event.

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The Power of Neal Schon's Endorsement

Neal Schon, known for his distinctive guitar riffs and decades-long career, provided the authentic, driving energy of the original track. Goodall essentially served as the co-frontman for the performance, his powerful vocals blending seamlessly with Schon's guitar work. This collaboration was far more than a guest appearance; it was a full endorsement from a rock legend, validating Goodall's talent and positioning him as a true inheritor of the classic rock tradition.

The performance was an explosion of energy, with the judges and the entire audience singing along to every word of the karaoke-favorite track. It was a perfect storm of nostalgia, raw talent, and a genuinely heartwarming underdog story, solidifying Goodall’s eventual win of the competition.

Richard Goodall's Vocal Style and Classic Rock Roots

Goodall’s success is deeply rooted in his ability to master the vocal demands of classic rock music. His voice is often described as possessing a raw, soulful grit, allowing him to tackle demanding tracks from the 70s and 80s with remarkable authenticity.

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More Than Just a Journey Cover Artist

While his association with Journey’s songs like "Don't Stop Believing" and "Faithfully" is what launched him to fame, Goodall has proven his versatility. His captivating cover of Bob Seger’s "Old Time Rock and Roll" during the competition showcased his range and his deep connection to the genre. Critics and fans noted that his voice carries not only technical skill but also the emotional weight of a life lived out of the spotlight, giving his performances a genuine, relatable feel.

His natural affinity for classic rock and soulful ballads is a key element of his topical authority. He doesn't just sing the songs; he embodies the spirit of the era, which resonates strongly with a mass audience seeking authentic, powerful vocal performances.

Life After the Golden Buzzer: Richard Goodall’s 2025 Career Update

Winning America's Got Talent comes with a million-dollar prize and a headlining show in Las Vegas, but for Richard Goodall, the transition has been carefully managed. His post-AGT career, as of late 2025, shows a fascinating balance between new opportunities and a commitment to his roots.

The Release of "Long Time Coming"

The biggest update in Richard Goodall’s professional life is the release of his first original single, "Long Time Coming," which debuted in August 2025. The song’s title is a direct reference to his life story—a dream that took decades to realize. The track is an inspiring, uplifting piece that speaks to older audiences who aspire to break into the music scene, proving that his talent extends beyond simply covering classic hits.

This original music venture, released through CMG Worldwide, marks a significant step in his career, moving him from a reality TV star to a legitimate recording artist.

The Singing Janitor Still Cleans Up

Perhaps the most endearing detail of his post-AGT life is his decision to hold onto his day job. Despite winning one of the biggest talent competitions in the world, Goodall remains employed as a school custodian in Terre Haute, Indiana, at least part-time. He has stated that he wants to keep his job, at least for the time being, highlighting his humility and his deep connection to the community that supported him. This decision has only further endeared him to his fans, reinforcing the "singing janitor" persona that made him famous.

Future Collaborations and Tour Dates

Goodall has been actively booking more performances in the months following his victory, showcasing his talent on various stages. He has also publicly expressed interest in future collaborations with other classic rock and soulful artists, specifically naming Michael Bublé and the band Foreigner as dream partners. His continued relationship with Neal Schon and the Journey legacy suggests that more appearances or recordings with members of the band are possible, keeping the door open for future electrifying moments.

Richard Goodall’s story is a powerful reminder that true talent has no expiration date. From the quiet halls of a middle school to the massive stage with rock legends, his journey with Journey's music has become a classic rock legend in its own right, inspiring millions worldwide.