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Fans at Detroit’s Pine Knob Music Theatre got way more than they bargained for on May 31, 2025. Just when it seemed like Riley Green’s set couldn’t get any better, rising country star Ella Langley stepped out from the wings to join him in a surprise live performance of their hit duet, “You Look Like You Love Me.”

The crowd’s reaction? Pure magic.

From the moment Langley appeared, the energy shifted. Phones lit up, fans held their breath, and what followed was a performance packed with heart, chemistry, and that raw country soul fans can’t get enough of.

Ella Langley and Riley Green Team Up For New Song "you look like you love me"  and It's An Instant Classic

Green kicked things off with a grin, teasing the audience:
“Y’all know this one… but I’ve got someone real special to help me sing it tonight.”

Cue the crowd erupting as Ella Langley—dressed in classic denim and boots—walked on stage with quiet confidence and a spark in her step. The two locked in from the first note, their harmonies melting together like they’d been singing this song for a lifetime. The emotional ballad, which tells the story of a love that’s lingering just beneath the surface, hit even harder live.

We Both Grew Up On The Same Kind Of Music” – Ella Langley & Riley Green  Talk About What Inspired “You Look Like You Love Me” | Whiskey Riff

“You look like you love me / Even when you don’t say a thing…”
They sang it like they meant every word—and the audience felt it.

The performance wasn’t flashy. There were no fireworks or dramatic staging—just two voices, one song, and a room full of people hanging on every lyric. And that’s what made it unforgettable. The crowd sang along softly, some swaying, some wiping away tears. It felt more like a quiet confession than a concert moment.

Though Riley Green and Ella Langley have made names for themselves individually—he with hits like “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” and she with her emotionally raw debut album hungover—it’s clear that their duet has struck a nerve in the best possible way.

After the song ended and the applause filled the air, the two shared a quick hug before walking offstage to a full standing ovation. A few hours later, Langley posted a short video clip of the performance with the caption:
“Detroit… you made this one unforgettable.”

Green followed with his own post:
“Always good to sing this one with Ella. Y’all brought the love tonight.”

No official word on whether more duets—or even a joint tour—are coming, but judging by the electric response, fans are definitely hoping for it.

In a world where country music is all about connection and storytelling, Riley Green and Ella Langley reminded everyone how powerful a simple, heartfelt song can be—especially when it’s shared between two artists who clearly believe every word they’re singing.

May 31 wasn’t just a concert. It was a moment—and Detroit won’t be forgetting it anytime soon.

Riley Green and Ella Langley made a lasting impression with their emotional live debut of “Don’t Mind If I Do” on The Voice season finale, airing December 10, 2024. With a stage set like an enormous whiskey barrel, the scene perfectly matched the song’s bittersweet, heart-tugging lyrics.

Green opened the performance solo, sitting under a warm, moody spotlight as he strummed his guitar. His voice, rich with Southern grit, carried the weight of every word, instantly pulling the crowd into the story of heartbreak and longing.

Riley Green and Ella Langley Perform “Don't Mind If I Do” at The Voice  Finale - Music Alley

Then, in a moment that gave viewers chills, Langley entered. Her voice melted into Green’s like they were born to sing together. The stripped-back acoustic style made the performance feel raw and real—like a quiet confession shared in the back of a dimly lit bar.

Riley Green and Ella Langley Deliver Emotional Television Debut of 'Don't  Mind If I Do' - Country Now

Green’s lyrics hit hard:
“I’ve been doin’ better, I hardly ever think of you lately / It ain’t all sunshine / When you cross my mind, I start missin’ you like crazy…”

Langley then joined him onstage, taking a seat beside him and offering a tender reply through the final chorus. Her vocals added another layer of emotion, bringing a soft strength that beautifully balanced Green’s sorrowful tone.

The studio audience responded with roaring applause and cheers, clearly moved by the duo’s chemistry and sincerity.

One viewer gushed online, “You two are perfect together. Your voices just melt into each other. So talented—I hope to see you in the UK someday!” Another added, “This song hits even harder live. Their connection is unreal. A powerhouse pairing if I’ve ever seen one.”

With this unforgettable performance, Green and Langley proved they’re not just collaborators—they’re a country duo fans will be talking about for a long time.

Ella Langley and Riley Green lit up the stage at the 2024 CMA Awards with their slow-burning duet “You Look Like You Love Me” — and it was one of the most talked-about moments of the night.

Dressed in a bold, sheer black outfit with feathered flair, Langley made her entrance straight from the audience. She sang the opening lines while walking through the star-packed crowd, even playfully tipping Michael Trotter Jr.’s cowboy hat during the lyric: “Well, I saw him walk in / With his cowboy hat.” It was a fun, flirty moment that immediately had the audience hooked.

The stage was set like a honky-tonk bar — complete with stools and bottles — when Riley Green joined in, strumming his acoustic guitar and dressed in classic country style: jeans, a crisp white shirt, and a black suede jacket. He started his verse while standing near the crowd, then walked up to meet Langley at the bar-like set, their voices blending seamlessly as they sang:

Ella Langley and Riley Green Rehearsal 2024 CMA Awards Performance - YouTube

“Excuse me / You look like you love me / You look like you want me / To want you to come on home…”

Their chemistry was undeniable, and it’s no wonder the track won Musical Event of the Year. Fans couldn’t get enough of their harmonies, and the moment only added fuel to the fire around the already-viral hit.

Ella Langley; Photo Courtesy of CMA/ABC

From a Joke to a Hit
Believe it or not, Langley originally wrote the song as a joke. But with Riley Green lending his voice and charm, “You Look Like You Love Me” became a fan favorite — and one of Langley’s most streamed tracks. It also appears on her debut album hungover, which is quickly earning critical acclaim.

In an interview, Langley said Green was the perfect fit:

“We both grew up on the same kind of music… and when I think of talking in a song, I think of ‘You Never Even Call Me By My Name.’”

Green, meanwhile, told the CMA he never expected the song to blow up the way it did:

“It just kinda took on a life of its own. It became the biggest moment of the show — fans really connected to it.”

Tour News: Ella + Riley Hit the Road in 2025
The magic doesn’t end with the CMAs. Ella Langley is set to join Riley Green on his 2025 Damn Country Music Tour, bringing their duet — and that same onstage chemistry — to fans across the country.

A Night Full of Stars
The CMA Awards were packed with memorable performances, including sets from Lainey Wilson, Post Malone, Chris Stapleton, and Kacey Musgraves. One emotional highlight? Dierks Bentley, Molly Tuttle, and others paid tribute to Tom Petty with “American Girl.”

There were also some unexpected mashups, like Thomas Rhett and Teddy Swims blending “Somethin’ Bout A Woman” with “Lose Control,” and Jelly Roll joining Brooks & Dunn for “Believe.”

Hosted by Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning, and Lainey Wilson, the show was a mix of tradition, surprise, and standout talent — and no one shined brighter than Langley and Green.

Their performance wasn’t just a duet — it was a moment. And fans are already hoping for more.

Riley Green and Ella Langley didn’t mean to break the internet with their flirty duet “You Look Like You Love Me,” but the chemistry was too good to ignore. The track became a fan favorite and even helped the duo snag Musical Event of the Year at the 58th Annual CMA Awards. Since then, they teamed up again on “Don’t Mind If I Do,” a standout track from Green’s 2024 album of the same name. So when fans showed up to his November 14 show in Hollywood, Florida, they expected to see that signature spark onstage again — just not with a twist.

When Megan Moroney stepped out to sing Ella’s part in “Don’t Mind If I Do,” the crowd at Audacy’s Stars and Strings concert was visibly surprised — and kind of obsessed. The duet went viral all over again, this time with Megan bringing her own fiery energy to the stage alongside Green.

The “Tennessee Orange” singer didn’t miss a beat as she took on Langley’s verse:
“I’m one memory away from fallin’ all the way apart / ‘Cause I might still love you / Hope you don’t mind if I do.”

@countrycentral

Riley Green and Megan Moroney singing “Don’t Mind If I Do.” #meganmoroney #rileygreen #countrymusic

♬ original sound – Country Central

TikTok lit up with fan reactions. One user gushed, “This is my Barbie and Ken!”
Another wrote, “They’d make the hottest couple ever!” — while others stood by the original, saying, “Love Megan, but it’s Ella for me on this one.”

Either way, fans couldn’t look away.

So, Is There Something Going On?
Probably not. As much as fans love a good country music love story, Megan Moroney’s not exactly looking for a cowboy right now — even if he is tall, hot, and wearing a Stetson.

“I really don’t have time for a relationship,” Moroney said in a recent interview with Fox News Digital. “I’m focused on my music and my career — that’s where all my energy is right now.”

That doesn’t mean fans aren’t hoping for more collaborations. With her powerful vocals and down-to-earth charm, Megan held her own and then some. Whether it’s with Ella Langley or Megan Moroney, Riley Green clearly knows how to pick the perfect duet partner.

And one thing’s certain — if Megan ever does decide she has time for a cowboy, the internet already has some strong opinions.

What started as a small-town dream just turned into a nationwide moment. John Foster — the 18-year-old country artist from West Baton Rouge Parish — brought the house down on American Idol with a fiery, feel-good cover of “Callin’ Baton Rouge” that had everyone talking… especially Carrie Underwood.

From the first beat, Foster lit up the stage with a confidence and spark that had the crowd clapping along and judges leaning in. Lionel Richie didn’t mince words:
“That was a national hero performance.”

It wasn’t just his powerful voice that turned heads — it was his stage presence, his charm, and the way he threw everything he had into the moment. Fans at home and in the studio compared him to a young Dwight Yoakam, with a little Louisiana soul thrown in for good measure.

From the Dock to the Spotlight
John’s story is as grounded as his voice. He grew up in Addis, Louisiana, singing gospel in church and picking up the guitar at just 14. His first performance? A casual set at Gros’ Marina in 2021. Fast-forward a few years, and he’s lighting up national television with his boots planted in tradition and his heart full of grit.

“I just want to make people feel something — the way country music always made me feel growing up,” Foster shared. “This is bigger than me. It’s about bringing joy, telling stories, and staying true.”

A Carrie Underwood Fangirl Moment
Perhaps the most unforgettable reaction came from Idol icon Carrie Underwood, who was all smiles, claps, and full-on fangirl energy during his performance. Her support added an exclamation mark to what was already shaping up to be a breakout night for Foster.

Eyes on the Opry
Now, with a wave of new fans behind him and momentum building, Foster’s dream of stepping onto the Grand Ole Opry stage doesn’t seem so far off.

One performance, one song, and one Louisiana voice — John Foster just made American Idol history. And if this is just the beginning, country music better make room.

John Foster’s journey from small-town dreamer to national spotlight just keeps getting more exciting — and now, some of country music’s biggest names are lining up to help shape his future.

Not long after he won over millions on American Idol, John started getting serious attention from top record labels. Sugar Hill Records was the first to come calling, drawn in by his heartfelt songwriting and one-of-a-kind voice. But then came a major game-changer: Warner Music Nashville, one of the biggest labels in country music, made him a big offer — complete with industry support, star-level backing, and a clear path to the top.

And just when fans thought it couldn’t get more surreal, country icon Randy Travis stepped into the picture.

Moved by John’s raw talent and classic country soul, Randy personally offered him a deal with Warner Music Nashville. That kind of support from a living legend? That’s the kind of moment young artists dream of. It’s not just a contract — it’s a massive vote of confidence from someone who helped shape the genre itself.

But in a move that surprised even his most loyal fans, John turned the spotlight back toward American Idol. Rather than signing right away, he chose to stay in the competition, determined to keep learning, growing, and connecting with his audience. For him, Idol wasn’t just a stepping stone — it was part of the journey that made everything else possible.

Now, with the season wrapping up and two major offers still on the table, fans everywhere are wondering: what’s next for John Foster?

No matter what decision he makes, one thing is certain — this is just the beginning. With Randy Travis in his corner, major labels ready to sign him, and a fanbase that keeps growing by the day, John Foster is set to become one of country music’s brightest new stars.

And honestly? We can’t wait to see where he goes next.

Just two weeks after capturing the nation’s attention as the runner-up on American Idol Season 23, 18-year-old John Foster is showing fans that his journey is far from over—and he’s doing it his way, with heart, humility, and a deep love for his roots.

On May 31, the Louisiana native released his very first music video since the show: a powerful one-take performance of “Amazing Grace,” filmed in collaboration with Fable House. With nothing more than his guitar, his soulful voice, and a quiet, reverent setting, John turned the timeless hymn into a moving tribute to his faith and upbringing.

“It felt right to make ‘Amazing Grace’ my first post-Idol video,” John shared. “It’s His grace that’s carried me here. I wanted every word—even the Cajun French chorus—to reflect my gratitude.”

Fans will remember the emotional moment when John first performed “Amazing Grace” during his Idol hometown visit, singing part of it in Cajun French on the steps of the Louisiana State Capitol. Now, hearing the full version in a dedicated video, supporters are once again praising his authenticity and spiritual depth.

“You always carry such a sweet and humble spirit,” one fan wrote.

Another added, “Your voice touches hearts, John. How sweet the sound, indeed.”

In just one day, the video earned more than 10,000 likes and countless comments applauding not only his voice, but the emotion and meaning behind every note.

A Louisiana Legend Joins the Story
As if that wasn’t enough, just days earlier John joined forces with Louisiana music legend Wayne Toups at the Cajun Country Memorial Day Festival. The two performed the zydeco classic “Mathilda,” blending their sounds in a celebration of culture, music, and hometown pride.

“I’m country to my bones, but artists like Wayne Toups have shaped who I am,” John shared alongside a backstage photo.

Toups added, “John Foster joined me on stage—it was pure Louisiana magic!”

New Music, Big Moments, and a Dream on the Horizon
John’s post-Idol journey began even before the show ended, when he released his debut single “Tell That Angel I Love Her”—a tender country ballad that quickly struck a chord with fans. And now, he’s gearing up for one of the biggest milestones of his young career: performing at the Grand Ole Opry on June 7.

“Stay tuned,” John teased on social media. “I’ve got more music and exciting things coming your way.”

At just 18, John Foster is already proving he’s not just another talent show runner-up—he’s a rising star with a powerful voice, a grateful heart, and deep Southern roots that continue to inspire every step of his journey.

One thing’s for sure: the best is yet to come.

John Foster may not have taken home the American Idol trophy, but he just walked into something that could be even bigger — a record deal offer from the legendary Brooks & Dunn.

Yep, you read that right.

Just days after finishing as the Season 22 runner-up, Foster caught the attention (and hearts) of country icons Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks. And now, they’ve offered him a spot on Arista Nashville — the same label that’s been home to Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, and Brooks & Dunn themselves. Talk about leveling up.

Brooks & Dunn's Ronnie Dunn Speaks Out About the Competitive Reality Of  Country Music: 'Everybody Hates One Another' - Country Now

A Nod From Legends
Brooks & Dunn have been quietly cheering Foster on from the sidelines, drawn to his classic country voice and down-to-earth storytelling. Think Travis Tritt meets Randy Travis — with a little something special that’s all his own.

“He’s got something we haven’t seen in a long time,” Kix Brooks said in a statement. “John has the heart, the voice, and the grit. We want to help him make music that really sticks with people.”

If the deal goes through, Foster will be one of the youngest new artists under the Arista Nashville banner — and with two country legends guiding him, the sky’s the limit.

American Idol's John Foster Talks Future Plans and If He'd Do 'Dancing With  the Stars' (Exclusive)

From Front Porch to the Big Stage
Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, 22-year-old Foster grew up singing gospel at church and strumming guitar on his grandparents’ porch. His roots run deep, and you could hear it in every note he sang on Idol — especially during his original song “Back Road Revival,” which shot up to No. 2 on the iTunes Country Chart within a day.

Even without the Idol crown, it was clear: this guy’s got “next big thing” written all over him.

The Low After the High
But behind the scenes, things got tough.

Right after the finale, Foster was hospitalized for vocal strain and exhaustion — a scary but not uncommon side effect of weeks of high-stakes performances and nonstop pressure.

“He really hit a low point,” a family member shared. “He felt like he let people down. He was questioning everything.”

That’s when the phone rang — and on the other end were Brooks & Dunn.

According to those close to Foster, their offer was exactly what he needed to hear.

“He said, ‘If Brooks & Dunn believe in me, maybe I really am meant to do this,’” one friend said.

What’s Next?
Insiders say Foster is expected to officially sign with Arista Nashville by summer 2025, and word is, studio time is already being booked in Nashville.

Even better? Brooks & Dunn are getting hands-on — helping shape Foster’s debut EP, pulling in some of Nashville’s top songwriters, and even hinting at a duet. (Can you imagine that track?!)

The Real Win
John Foster may not have won American Idol, but he’s walking away with something arguably even more valuable — the backing of country royalty, a label deal with serious weight, and a fanbase that’s just getting started.

His story proves that sometimes the best victories happen after the final curtain falls.

So keep an eye on John Foster. Because this chapter? It’s just the beginning.

Ella Langley isn’t just making waves in country music—she’s kicking down the doors. The rising star lit up the CMT stage this week with a high-energy, boot-stomping performance of her hit single “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” and let’s just say… she left no doubt that she’s the real deal.

Rocking black leather and cowboy boots, Langley took the stage with a fierce confidence that was impossible to ignore. Her gritty vocals, Southern swagger, and don’t-mess-with-me attitude gave the crowd everything they came for—and more. Backed by a rowdy band and glowing neon lights, she leaned into every lyric like she owned it, delivering a mix of sass, strength, and Southern charm.

Ella Langley on X: "weekend two on the road 🤍 https://t.co/FFW0bGDPmc" / X

“Country Boy’s Dream Girl” has already been turning heads on streaming charts and country radio, and Langley’s live performance cranked that buzz up a notch. With lyrics like “I drink whiskey like your grandpa does / And I don’t back down when I’ve had enough,” the track is all about bold confidence and backwoods pride—and Langley embodied every word of it.

She wasn’t just singing a song. She was the song. Tossing her hair, flashing a grin, and commanding every inch of that stage, Langley showed why so many fans are calling her one of country’s most exciting new artists.

The audience loved it—and so did social media. Viewers took to Twitter and Instagram with praise, calling Langley “a total powerhouse” and “exactly what country music needs right now.” One fan summed it up perfectly: “Didn’t know who she was before tonight, but I’m officially obsessed.”

Looks Like Chicago Loves Ella Langley — Melodies N' Memories: Music Media

Langley’s CMT performance comes at a big moment in her career as she continues to promote her debut EP and hit the road with some major tour dates. With her mix of outlaw edge, honest lyrics, and fearless energy, it’s clear she’s not just chasing the spotlight—she’s blazing her own trail right through it.

By the time the final chorus rang out and she tipped her hat to the cheering crowd, there was no question: Ella Langley is a name you’re going to hear a lot more of. And “Country Boy’s Dream Girl”? It’s not just a song anymore—it’s her calling card.

On the evening of February 13, 2025, something magical happened at Sidetracks Music Hall in Huntsville, Alabama. Under dim lights and surrounded by the warmth of Southern soul, Ella Langley and Taylor Hunnicutt stepped onto the stage and delivered a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “Rhiannon” that left the entire room breathless.

This wasn’t just another cover—it felt like a revival. The way these two Alabama artists came together, it was as if the spirit of the song had found new storytellers.

Ella Langley and Taylor Hunnicutt - Rhiannon (2/13/2025) Huntsville, AL

Ella Langley, known for her bold blend of outlaw country and gritty rock, brought her signature fire to the performance. Standing alongside her was Taylor Hunnicutt, whose bluesy, weathered voice added a raw emotional depth that could quiet a crowd with a single note. When they sang together, their voices wove around each other effortlessly—soulful, stirring, and steeped in Southern charm.

Country Music Awards: Ella Langley holt die meisten Preise

There were no flashy lights or gimmicks—just two women in black denim and boots, letting the music speak for itself. From the first note, the crowd was captivated. Langley’s fierce delivery of “She rules her life like a fine skylark” sent chills, while Hunnicutt’s soulful response, “Would you stay if she promised you heaven?” echoed with heartbreak and power. It was more than a performance—it was a shared moment of storytelling, rooted in grit, grace, and reverence for the past.

February 13, 2025 | Ella Langley live at Mars Music Hall | Huntsville  Magazine

The room fell into a kind of hush that you don’t often see at live shows anymore. People weren’t on their phones—they were fully present, soaking in every lyric, every harmony. And when the final note faded into silence, the applause wasn’t just loud—it was emotional. You could tell everyone knew they’d just experienced something rare.

What made this performance so special is how Ella and Taylor brought “Rhiannon” home to the South. They didn’t just sing the song—they lived in it, giving it new meaning with their Alabama roots and fearless authenticity. It wasn’t about copying Stevie Nicks—it was about honoring her while channeling their own voices, their own stories.

This moment couldn’t have come at a better time for either artist. Langley, riding the wave of her rising career, is quickly becoming a voice for strong, unapologetic women in country music. Hunnicutt, known for her soul-baring songwriting and emotional honesty, is carving out her own space in Southern Americana. But on this night, none of that mattered. It wasn’t about careers or headlines. It was about heart, harmony, and honoring the music that shaped them.

For one unforgettable night, “Rhiannon” wasn’t just a song—it was a spell. And in Huntsville, two Alabama women cast it flawlessly.