Louisiana country singer John Foster, an LSU student and resident of Addis, made a lasting impression during the Hollywood Week of American Idol with his performance of Jamey Johnson’s “In Color.”
His blend of raw vocals and traditional country sound captivated both the judges and the audience, showcasing his passion for classic country music.
Watch his cover below.
However, it was his emotional performance in the later rounds that truly secured his spot in the Top 14 of American Idol Season 23. He delivered a heartfelt rendition of his original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” written in memory of his dear friend Maggie Dunn, who tragically passed away in a car accident.
The emotional story of their friendship, along with John wearing the same cream-colored cowboy hat Maggie had seen him wear during his first gig, made the performance even more touching.
Carrie Underwood, one of the judges, couldn’t hide her emotion and emphasized twice that she “loved him,” showing her deep admiration for both his voice and the personal story behind the song.
While the “In Color” performance earlier in the competition grabbed attention, it was the “Tell That Angel I Love Her” performance that marked a turning point for Foster, securing his place in the competition’s Top 14. With powerful performances and a deeply personal story behind each song, John Foster is definitely a name to watch as American Idol continues.
John Foster: A Rising Star on American Idol and the Country Music Scene
John Foster, an 18-year-old country artist from Addis, Louisiana, is making waves in the music world and earning a spot in the spotlight as a contestant on Season 23 of American Idol. Known for his neo-traditional sound, John draws inspiration from country legends like George Strait, Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, and Willie Nelson.
A recent graduate of Brusly High School, where he was valedictorian, John’s musical journey is impressive for someone so young. He’s already released several singles since 2022, including the heartfelt “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” a tribute to two local cheerleaders, Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, who tragically lost their lives in a car accident in December 2022. This deeply personal song showcases John’s ability to channel emotion into his music, honoring his late friends with every note.
As he moves forward in American Idol’s competitive season, John Foster’s musical journey continues to evolve. He recently released two singles in 2024, “Weatherman” and “Just As She Was Leaving,” covers of songs by Hank Williams Jr. and David St. Romain. He’s also performed alongside notable Louisiana musicians, including John Schneider, known for his role in The Dukes of Hazzard.
Despite his young age, John’s growing music career has already seen remarkable milestones. He summed up his 2024 with excitement, mentioning his busy year with nearly 40 performances and plans for a new project in the works. John’s fans can expect even more from him in 2025, and his American Idol journey is only the beginning of what’s sure to be an extraordinary career.
