When it comes to honoring country legends, Riley Green and Ella Langley know how to make it count. During the Toby Keith: American Icon celebration, the duo brought down the house with a fiery and unforgettable version of “Who’s Your Daddy?”—and fans loved every second of it.

A Salute to a Country Legend
Toby Keith’s music has always been big, bold, and full of personality—and “Who’s Your Daddy?” is no exception. With its cheeky lyrics and irresistible groove, it’s a fan favorite for a reason. Taking on a song so full of character could’ve been a tough task, but Riley and Ella handled it like pros, blending old-school charm with their own fresh flair.

As the first few notes rang out and the lights hit the stage, excitement rippled through the crowd. Riley walked on with his signature laid-back swagger, while Ella brought fierce confidence and fiery vocals that immediately turned heads. Together, they didn’t just sing the song—they owned it.

A Duo with Serious Spark
From the moment they started trading lines, you could feel the chemistry between them. Their playful back-and-forth, knowing smiles, and undeniable energy made it feel more like a good-natured conversation than a performance. It was fun, flirty, and full of life—just like the original.

Riley’s smooth, Southern drawl brought that familiar Toby vibe, while Ella gave the song a fresh twist with her powerhouse vocals and fearless attitude. When they hit the chorus—“Who’s your daddy? Who’s your baby?”—the crowd couldn’t help but sing along, clapping and cheering every step of the way.

More Than a Cover—It Was a Celebration
What made this tribute so special wasn’t just how well they sang it, but how much heart they put into it. They weren’t just performing a classic—they were celebrating Toby Keith’s lasting influence on country music and showing just how alive that spirit still is.

By the time they reached the final chorus, the audience was all in—singing, cheering, and completely caught up in the energy of the moment. It was pure country fun, with a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of personality.

A Moment to Remember
As the crowd rose to their feet and the last notes faded out, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just another tribute—it was a standout moment of the night. Riley Green and Ella Langley reminded everyone just how powerful and playful country music can be.

For longtime Toby Keith fans, it was a heartfelt nod to one of country’s most charismatic stars. And for those watching Riley and Ella light up the stage, it was a glimpse into the bright future of country music—full of talent, tradition, and just the right amount of attitude.

Carrie Underwood delivered one of the most unforgettable moments at the CMA Awards with her heartfelt rendition of “Softly and Tenderly.” It wasn’t just a performance—it was a deeply moving experience that left the entire audience in stunned silence before erupting into an emotional standing ovation.

As the first gentle notes of the beloved hymn rang out, Carrie’s voice carried a delicate mix of strength and vulnerability. From the very beginning, it was clear that this performance meant something deeply personal to her. With each lyric, she seemed to pour her heart into every word, creating a powerful connection with the crowd.

“Softly and Tenderly” is a timeless song often tied to themes of hope, healing, and reflection—making it the perfect choice for such an emotional moment. Carrie didn’t just sing it; she felt it. Her voice, usually so strong and polished, trembled slightly with emotion, and by the end of the song, she was visibly holding back tears.

The audience, fully locked into every note, was right there with her. As the final chord faded, the room stayed still for a moment—then erupted in applause. People rose to their feet, many wiping away tears, touched by the rawness Carrie brought to the stage.

Carrie paused to collect herself, visibly moved by the crowd’s response. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment of truth, a rare glimpse into the heart of an artist who’s usually composed and polished. That night, she let her guard down, and in doing so, reminded everyone why she’s so loved—not just for her powerhouse vocals, but for her humanity.

Whether the performance was a tribute to someone dear, or simply a reflection of personal emotion, one thing was clear: Carrie let the music speak straight from her soul. And in doing so, she reminded us all of music’s real power—to comfort, to connect, and to heal.

Fans will be talking about this moment for a long time. It was tender, powerful, and deeply human—just like Carrie herself.

It was a night full of Southern soul and unforgettable moments when rising country star Ella Langley made a surprise appearance during Riley Green’s May 31st show at the iconic Fox Theatre in Detroit. Fans were caught completely off guard when Langley stepped onstage unannounced to sing their new duet, “You Look Like You Love Me.”

The song, released earlier this spring, came to life in a whole new way during the sold-out stop on Green’s Ain’t My Last Rodeo Tour. As soon as the opening chords played, the energy in the room shifted. Excitement buzzed through the crowd, followed by a hush as everyone leaned in to soak up the emotional ballad.

Wearing black leather and her signature confident smile, Langley walked into the spotlight like she owned it. Her rich, smoky voice blended effortlessly with Green’s rugged Southern tone, especially on the haunting chorus: “You look like you love me / Even if you’re gonna leave.” It was a moment that felt both intimate and powerful.

Co-written by Langley with David Garcia and Thomas Archer, the track dives into the bittersweet feeling of knowing love might not last—but letting it in anyway. Surrounded by boot-stomping anthems and rowdy crowd favorites, this raw duet offered a rare, emotional pause that hit fans right in the heart.

For Langley, it was a big moment in an already busy year. She’s fresh off a run of her own headlining shows and continues to gain traction with honest, gritty songs like “Damn You” and “Country Boy’s Dream Girl.” Teaming up with a seasoned hitmaker like Green—known for “There Was This Girl” and “I Wish Grandpas Never Died”—shows just how far her star is rising.

Their chemistry onstage was undeniable. You could feel it in the way they glanced at each other between verses and the way the crowd swayed, phones lit up, turning the theatre into a sea of soft light. Langley even flashed a grin mid-song, clearly soaking up the moment. As they finished the final chorus, Green gave her a respectful hat tip—an old-school gesture that spoke volumes.

Since its release, “You Look Like You Love Me” has quickly gained traction on streaming platforms and country playlists. Fans and critics alike are praising the duet’s raw emotion and Langley’s ability to hold her own next to a country favorite.

After the show, social media lit up with clips and praise. One fan tweeted it was “the most emotional moment of the night,” while another simply said, “Ella Langley just stole the show.”

As Riley Green continues touring this summer, fans will be keeping their fingers crossed for more moments like this—where rising voices and country roots come together in one unforgettable performance.

Ella Langley is truly a country music fan’s dream come true!

On Saturday, May 17, after an electrifying performance at Morgan Wallen’s very first Sand in My Boots Festival, the Alabama-born singer stopped by PEOPLE at Bath & Body Works’ Scent x Sound Lab. For Ella, this festival wasn’t just another show — it was a full-circle moment.

“I used to go to Hangout Music Festival every year for my senior graduation,” Ella shared. “We didn’t have a senior trip, so going to Hangout was my thing. And I’ve vacationed down here every year since.”

Now, as part of the brand-new Sand in My Boots lineup, she’s making history. “It’s so cool to be part of the first year of this festival. I truly believe it’s going to be something special.”

During her set, Ella wowed the crowd with hits like “Weren’t for the Wind,” “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” “Nicotine,” and “Hungover.” Later, she even joined Riley Green on stage to perform their award-winning duet “You Look Like You Love Me” and “Don’t Mind If I Do.”

Just last week, Ella was the big winner at the ACM Awards, taking home five trophies including New Female Artist of the Year and Single of the Year. One of her standout moments was sharing the stage with country legend Miranda Lambert to perform the classic “Kerosene.”

“That was definitely a highlight,” Ella said. “Miranda has always been a huge inspiration for me. Performing with her felt like being a 12-year-old kid living her biggest dream on stage.”

Growing up, Ella admired Miranda’s strength and authenticity. “She’s unapologetically herself and stands up for what she believes in — not just for herself but for others too. Watching her as a young artist was so inspiring. I’m really grateful to have worked alongside her.”

Ella also chatted about her partnership with Bath & Body Works, sharing how scents bring back memories and emotions. When asked what love smells like, she smiled and said, “It really depends on the day. Some days it’s mahogany tea, wood, kind of sexy. Other days it’s strawberry shortcake. And then, sometimes, it just smells like rain. That’s just the truth.”

Lainey Wilson’s new song “Somewhere Over Laredo” will take listeners on a heartfelt journey, inspired by the timeless classic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz. Co-written by Wilson along with Trannie Anderson, Dallas Wilson, and Andy Albert, this track is a loving tribute to small-town life across America.

Lainey shared on Instagram how the song came to life during her travels: “When I’m flying between shows, I catch myself looking out the window, talking to God, dreaming, or reminiscing. ‘Somewhere Over Laredo’ tells a story that speaks to all of that.”

Known for her gift of storytelling, Lainey said this song allowed her to revisit a part of her own past: “I’ve always loved putting myself in other people’s shoes to tell their stories, but with this one, I went back to shoes I wore years ago.”

The chorus beautifully captures the same wistful feeling that made Judy Garland’s original so beloved. Wilson’s lyrics and melody nod to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” sure to bring a smile to any fan of The Wizard of Oz:

“Somewhere over Laredo,
Dreamin’ about those rodeo nights,
Laid there on the banks of the Rio,
New silver buckle on your jeans next to mine.”

The song tells a story of young love and longing, with lines like:

“Couple wrong for each other,
Lone Star-crossed lovers,
Born to get gone from the get go,
But you’re on my mind every time I’m chasing this neon rainbow,
Somewhere over Laredo.”

Lainey is set to perform this beautiful new track at the 2025 American Music Awards in Las Vegas on May 26. She’s also nominated for Favorite Female Country Artist, sharing the category with stars like Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, and Megan Moroney.

Fresh off the European leg of her Whirlwind Tour, Lainey’s next stops include the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach, and shows across Myrtle Beach, Phoenix, Toronto, Nashville, Fort Worth, New York, Cleveland, and wrapping up in Orlando on November 8.

With “Somewhere Over Laredo,” Lainey Wilson proves once again that her music not only tells stories—it touches hearts and takes us all on a little trip down memory lane.

Country music’s power couple, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, delivered a heartfelt and unforgettable performance at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro Arena during the 2018 Country 2 Country (C2C) festival. As co-headliners, they treated the packed crowd to a rich 90-minute show, mixing their biggest solo hits with beloved duets, creating an intimate and powerful experience.

Kicking off with a soulful cover of “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me),” Faith and Tim set the mood for a night full of nostalgia and genuine connection. Having toured together less frequently in recent years, their Glasgow show felt like a special event for fans.

Their set blended new songs with timeless classics—Faith wowed with her soaring vocals on hits like “This Kiss” and “Breathe,” while Tim’s deep, warm voice brought life to fan favorites such as “Live Like You Were Dying” and “Humble and Kind.” The audience was fully engaged, singing along and cheering throughout.

Their duets, including “It’s Your Love” and “Speak to a Girl,” were the emotional heart of the night. Holding hands and singing in perfect harmony, Faith and Tim’s chemistry felt natural and heartfelt—not just a performance but a genuine expression of their bond. Faith’s warm smiles and Tim’s classic cowboy charm made the stage feel welcoming and real.

A standout moment was Faith’s solo performance of “Stronger,” a tender ballad that highlighted her vocal range and emotional depth. Tim followed with a moving rendition of “Don’t Take the Girl,” bringing tears to many eyes. These solo spots reminded everyone why they’ve remained country music icons for more than 20 years.

The C2C festival, spanning cities across the UK and Ireland, is now a key event for country music fans in Europe. Having Grammy-winning stars like Faith and Tim headline Glasgow only boosted the festival’s reputation and showed how far country music’s reach has grown.

Though they kept talk between songs brief, their music spoke volumes. They closed the night with “I Need You,” a tender ballad performed under a single spotlight, leaving the crowd cheering and deeply moved.

For those lucky enough to be there, it wasn’t just a concert—it was a rare, unforgettable moment with two of country’s greatest voices sharing their love and stories on stage. Faith Hill and Tim McGraw didn’t just sing about love—they lived it that night.

Just weeks after the American Idol Season 23 finale, John Foster and Breanna Nix reunited for a special, unforgettable duet.

Jamal Roberts took home the crown, while John and Breanna finished strong in second and third place. Since then, all three finalists have been busy with performances, interviews, and celebrating their debut singles’ success. At one point, Jamal, Breanna, and John held the top three spots on the all-genre iTunes chart, with Breanna’s “Higher” reigning #1 on the iTunes country chart.

A Big Moment for the Finalists
Fans were excited when it was announced that the top finalists from Season 23 would perform together at a special pre-CMA Fest event in Nashville on June 4. That same week, both John and Breanna made their Grand Ole Opry debuts—an incredible milestone for their careers.

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A post shared by Breanna Nix (@breannanixmusic)

A Quiet Jam Turns Into Magic
Amid all the CMA Fest excitement, John and Breanna found a quiet moment to sing together. They picked a meaningful classic—Randy Travis’ “I Told You So”—and the chemistry was undeniable.

The Story Behind “I Told You So”
Originally released by Randy Travis in 1988, “I Told You So” hit #1 on the Hot Country Songs chart. In 2009, Carrie Underwood, a fellow American Idol winner and later judge, covered the song on her album Carnival Ride. That same year, she and Randy released a duet version that became a crossover hit, reaching #2 on the country charts and #9 on the Hot 100. Their version even won a Grammy for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals and went platinum.

An Idol Classic
“I Told You So” has a special place in American Idol history. Carrie and Randy first performed it together during the show’s Grand Ole Opry week in 2009. Over the years, many contestants, including Maddie Poppe, Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, and recently John Foster, have covered it. During Season 23, John sang part of the song directly to Carrie, creating a touching moment that won hearts.

Fans Love John and Breanna’s Duet
Fans were thrilled when Breanna shared a clip of their duet on social media. She captioned it:

Singing with @officialjohnfoster Let us know how it sounds to you… Should we finish the rest?

The clip shows Breanna’s angelic vocals alongside John’s gentle guitar and heartfelt singing. The video ends just before the chorus, leaving fans eager for the full version.

Fans Are All In
The response was overwhelmingly positive, with fans flooding the comments, urging them to record and release the entire song. The excitement is real—and everyone’s hoping John and Breanna will bring this beautiful duet back in full soon.

American Idol finalist John Foster is keeping traditional country alive and well — and fans can’t get enough. In a heartfelt Instagram Reel, John poured his soul into a cover of Doug Stone’s iconic 1990 debut single, “I’d Be Better Off (In a Pine Box),” reminding everyone just how deep country heartbreak can cut.

A Pure Dose of ’90s Country Soul
With nothing but a guitar and that signature, smooth voice, John captured the raw emotion of the song in a way that felt timeless. His performance was stripped down, sincere, and completely in tune with the spirit of ‘90s country — a reminder of why that era still hits home for so many fans.

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A post shared by John Foster (@officialjohnfoster)

A Season Full of Heart
John’s connection to emotional storytelling has been a standout all season long. Earlier this year, he brought America to tears with his original ballad, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” written in memory of his late best friend, Maggie Dunn.

“Tell That Angel I Love Her” — Straight from the Heart
When John performed the song on the Idol stage, the moment was nothing short of powerful. With gentle vocals and visible emotion, he created an atmosphere that felt more like a prayer than a performance. As he quietly dedicated it to “Maggie,” you could hear the love — and the grief — in every note.

Country Roots, Rising Star
Whether he’s honoring a country legend or sharing pieces of his own story, John Foster is proving he’s more than just a talented singer — he’s an artist with heart, soul, and a deep respect for the genre’s roots. His fans are showing up across Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, rallying behind a young artist who isn’t chasing trends — he’s staying true to the music that moves him.

As John’s journey continues, one thing’s for sure: he’s not just bringing back the sound of classic country — he’s giving it a future.

When American Idol contestant John Foster took the stage on Sunday night, he wasn’t just performing—he was honoring a friendship that changed his life forever. With his original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” John delivered a heart-wrenching tribute to his best friend, Maggie Dunn, who tragically passed away in a 2022 car crash. It was a moment that touched millions—but none more deeply than Maggie’s mother, Erin Martin, who watched from the audience with tears and pride.

“I didn’t even hear him say, ‘I love you, Maggie,’ when I was there,” Erin shared in an emotional interview. “The crowd was clapping so much, I missed it live. But hearing it later at home—wow. That meant everything.”

John’s raw, vulnerable performance left fans across the country in tears. The song, written the same day Maggie and her friend Caroline Gill lost their lives in a police-involved crash, was John’s way of channeling his grief and love. “It’s the most beautiful, yet most horrific thing I’ve ever created,” he once said.

Maggie and Caroline, both students at Brusly High School, were killed on New Year’s Eve 2022 when a police officer, chasing another vehicle at high speed, struck their car. Maggie’s brother, Liam, was also seriously injured.

Since the tragedy, Maggie’s father has launched the Margaret “Maggie” Edline Dunn (MED) Foundation to honor her legacy and advocate for change. And now, through John’s voice, Maggie’s story is reaching even more hearts.

From the crowd that night, Erin described the emotion in the room. “It was all snot and ugly tears,” she joked through her sadness. “John’s sister Elizabeth held a sign for Caroline and Maggie—and seeing that on TV, it was another special way to keep their names out there.”

John’s performance sparked more than emotion—it sparked awareness. Online searches about Maggie and Caroline’s story surged after the episode aired. Erin hopes this visibility will inspire change.

“Maybe someone with real power to make a difference will finally pay attention,” she said. “This isn’t just about our girls. It’s a bigger problem, and we need people to care enough to fix it.”

Beyond the headlines, Erin reflected on what made her daughter’s friendship with John so special. “There was nothing fake about their group. No drama, no backstabbing—just real support. Maggie truly believed in John’s talent.”

And she’s not surprised to see him succeed.

“He’s always been respectful and kind. He even called Jelly Roll ‘Mr. Roll’ the first time they met,” she laughed. “Jelly Roll told him, ‘Please don’t ever say that again.’”

John still carries a letter Maggie once wrote for a school assignment—words of encouragement that now feel prophetic. “She told him to keep chasing his dream. She saw it in him.”

Now, with America watching, John Foster is doing exactly that—chasing his dream and honoring Maggie with every note.

“He was valedictorian,” Erin added. “When he sets a goal, he gets there.”

And as he gears up to perform again this Sunday in hopes of making it to the Top 10, Erin has one final message:

“I’m so proud of him. But don’t just say the song moved you—vote. That’s how we keep her memory alive.”

Tune in to American Idol this Sunday night on ABC to watch John Foster continue his journey—not just for himself, but for the angel who believed in him first.

Back in 2011, the ACM Fan Jam gave fans a moment they still talk about — when country’s then-golden couple, Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert, totally flipped the script with a surprise performance of Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music.” Yep, you read that right — the cowboy boots came off (figuratively), and the funk came out.

It wasn’t your typical country duet, and that’s exactly what made it magic. Blake, known for his laid-back charm and quick wit, leaned all the way into the groove, trading in his usual country swagger for something a little more wild. And Miranda? She didn’t just keep up — she owned it. With her powerhouse vocals and fiery presence, she gave the 1976 funk anthem a Southern spin that no one saw coming.

From the first riff, the energy in the room exploded. Fans were up dancing, laughing, and cheering on a performance that felt completely unfiltered and totally fun. It was one of those rare moments where two artists just let loose and had a blast — and in doing so, reminded everyone why live music is so unforgettable.

Part of the charm was just how unexpected it all was. This was Miranda and Blake at the top of their game, stepping out of their comfort zone and showing off just how versatile and fearless they could be. One minute, you’re expecting a country ballad… the next, you’re dancing in the aisles to a funk classic.

The ACM Fan Jam has always been about those unscripted, fan-first moments — and this duet delivered in every way. While the main awards show handled the big speeches and glitzy performances, the Fan Jam gave fans a front-row seat to the fun, and this moment was hands-down one of the highlights of the night.

Looking back, it was more than just a funky cover. It was a snapshot of two stars totally in sync, having the time of their lives and sharing that joy with every person in the crowd. Whether you were there in person or watching from your couch, you couldn’t help but smile.

Never seen it? Trust us — you need to. Hit play on the video below and get ready to dance like it’s 1976… with a country twist.