After winning Season 19 of America’s Got Talent on Tuesday, September 24, Richard Goodall is still in a state of pure bliss, especially after sharing the stage with Journey guitarist Neal Schon, his idol.

On Thursday, September 26, the singing school janitor praised Neal and his wife, Michaele Schon, on Facebook. In Tuesday’s grand final, Schon and Goodall sang Journey’s 1981 hit song “Don’t Stop Believin’.” For Goodall, it was a full circle occasion as he gained notoriety in 2023 for singing the karaoke staple at a school in his native Terre Haute, Indiana.

Forevermore, this is something I will never forget! Angela Vanoven and I were spoiled rotten by Neal and Michael Schon. A truly remarkable time in our life! “Thank you Neal and Michael Schon from the bottom of our hearts,” Goodall posted on Facebook. Here is a link to view the video.

Schon released a video from the finale along with his congratulations on his and his wife’s Facebook page. Schon commented, “Congratulations, Richard Goodall, the winner of America’s Got Talent.”

A message from Howie Mandel stated, “A janitor called Richard Goodall auditioned for #AGT with “Don’t Stop Believing,” then Schon reshared a video of his and Goodall’s final performance on Wednesday, September 25. He’s currently performing at the Finale with Journey. It is true that dreams come true!

Throughout his tenure on Across the Universe, Goodall captured the hearts of Americans with his poignant performances of “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” “Eye of the Tiger,” and “Faithfully.” On Tuesday night, he was crowned the Season 19 champion, defeating the runner-up, dog act Rani & Rhythm.