Gwen Stefani just reached a major milestone in her music career — her very first No. 1 on the country charts — and she did it alongside her other half, Blake Shelton.
Their romantic duet, “Nobody But You,” has officially hit the top spot on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. While this is a big first for Gwen, it marks an impressive 27th No. 1 for Blake on the same chart.
The song, released in January, has been a fan favorite from the start. Written by Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman, Josh Osborne, and Tommy Lee James, it’s already racked up nearly 80 million streams and sold over 750,000 track equivalents — not too shabby for Gwen’s country debut!
Blake proudly shared the news online, writing,
“Congratulations Gwen Stefani on your first country song going #1 at country radio!!! Not bad for your first try!!!!! Thank you all as well!!!
Gwen responded with heartfelt words of her own:
“Trying to wrap my head around the fact that I even get to know you, Blake — let alone be on such a beautiful, classic duet with you?! Thank you for taking me on this ride. I’m so grateful and blown away by all the love and support!”
“Nobody But You” is the third single from Blake’s 2019 album, Fully Loaded: God’s Country. The lovebirds have teamed up before on “Go Ahead and Break My Heart” and the holiday tune “You Make It Feel Like Christmas,” but this latest duet has truly struck a chord with fans and radio listeners alike.
It’s clear that when it comes to music — and love — these two are perfectly in tune.
John Foster may have finished second on American Idol Season 23, but he’s already moving full speed ahead with his music career. Just hours after the finale aired on May 18, the 18-year-old Louisiana native began teasing what’s next—and fans have every reason to be excited.
First up is his debut single, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” a heartfelt tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn, who tragically passed away in a car accident.
“I’m going to promote that song like crazy,” John said in a recent interview. “I wrote it on my own, and I think it really shows who I am—not just as a singer, but as a writer and a person.”
But that’s just the beginning. John’s already eager to hit the studio again and start working on his first full album. “I love the creative process,” he said. “I can’t wait to get back in there and make more music.”
And while the focus is on music, he isn’t closing the door on other opportunities—like Dancing With the Stars. “I’ve never really thought about it,” he laughed. “But hey, never say never!”
For now, though, his top priority is simple: going home and spending time with his dog. “I’ve missed my pup,” he said with a smile. “I’m just really excited to be home for a bit.”
John took the finale outcome with grace and gratitude. “I’m honestly so proud,” he shared. “To be second out of 120,000 people—and part of what I think was the most talented Top 24 ever—is something I’ll always remember.”
Third-place finalist Breanna Nix echoed that sense of peace and purpose. She was eliminated earlier in the night, but said she felt a calm assurance the whole time.
“I truly believe God directed every step I took on this show,” she said. “I had a feeling I’d go out first during the finale—and I was totally okay with that.”
In fact, Breanna had her eye on Jamal Roberts as the likely winner way back in Hollywood Week. “The first time I heard him sing, I just knew,” she said. “I walked up, introduced myself, and said, ‘You’re going to win American Idol, and I want to be the one who predicted it!’” Sure enough, after Jamal’s win, she reminded him of that moment—and he remembered.
Breanna, a powerhouse vocalist and mom, says this is just the beginning. “I already feel like I’ve won,” she said. “I’ve grown so much, and I just released my first single, ‘Higher.’ It’s been surreal, and so many new opportunities are coming my way.”
She hopes to stay connected with Idol, too. “If they ever need a judge, a mentor, anything—I’m there,” she said. “This show changed my life.”
As for what’s next, both artists are preparing for the next big chapter—touring, recording, and staying connected with the fans who’ve supported them every step of the way.
John left future contestants with some advice straight from the heart:
“Be confident in who you are. Don’t let setbacks define you. This isn’t the end—it’s the beginning. Keep going.”
And with that kind of mindset, both John and Breanna are poised to soar far beyond the Idol stage.
The Season 23 finale of American Idol aired on May 18, 2025, with Jamal Roberts taking home the title. But for many viewers, it was 18-year-old John Foster from Addis, Louisiana, who stole the show — and their hearts. Even though he finished as the runner-up, it’s clear he won the love and support of nearly half the country.
The exciting three-hour finale was packed with standout performances from the Top 14 contestants and even a few unforgettable moments from the judges themselves. But it was John’s heartfelt performances and humble spirit that left a lasting impression.
Shortly after the show, John took to Instagram to thank his supporters and reflect on the whirlwind experience. Known for his smooth, soulful voice and old-school country charm, fans have often said he sounds like someone with decades of experience.
“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes,” he wrote. “I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart – times a million.”
A Finale Full of Heart
For his first finale performance, John chose the patriotic anthem “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” encouraged by mentor Jelly Roll to pour everything he had into the moment. He followed it with a crowd-pleasing rendition of “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” which had both judges and the audience singing along.
After fellow finalist Breanna Nix was eliminated, John and Jamal went head-to-head for the final vote. For his last performance, John returned to a deeply personal place, singing his original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” written in memory of his late friend Maggie Dunn. The emotional tribute brought many in the room to tears, including the judges.
Meanwhile, Jamal debuted his powerful original song “Heal,” calling it a prayer for those in pain.
A Moment of Speculation, But Nothing But Grace
As the final votes came in, fans noticed a brief moment that sparked conversation online — John seemed to glance at the results envelope just before Ryan Seacrest officially announced Jamal as the winner. Social media lit up with playful speculation:
“Did John Foster just peek at the card?”
“He looked like he saw the name before Ryan said anything!”
“Seacrest needs to face the contestants when announcing — John clearly saw it first!”
Regardless of how the moment played out, John handled it all with his signature grace and humility. His fans responded with overwhelming love and encouragement.
“John Foster, we’re so proud of you. You’re already a star.”
“Even though you didn’t win the title, you’ve won our hearts. Can’t wait for your music!”
“Addis, Louisiana has never been prouder!”
With his debut single already out and talk of a full album on the way, John Foster’s journey is only just beginning. Whether it’s on country radio, the concert stage, or in the studio, fans are excited to see where this rising star goes next.
As John himself says, “This is only the beginning. Don’t be discouraged. Keep going.”
And with that spirit, it’s clear we’ll be hearing from John Foster for years to come.
He may have finished second on American Idol Season 23, but John Foster is walking away a winner in every sense of the word. Just hours after the emotional finale on Sunday, May 18, the 18-year-old Louisiana native is already mapping out his next moves — and fans have a lot to look forward to!
First up is his debut single, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” a heartfelt song John wrote in honor of his late friend Maggie Dunn, who tragically passed away in a car accident. “I wrote it by myself, and I really think it shows who I am — not just as a singer, but as a writer too,” he shared. “I’m going to push it out there as much as I can.”
And that’s just the beginning. Foster is already eager to return to the studio, where he feels most at home. “Recording is something I love. I’m definitely planning to work on a full album soon.”
Back home in Louisiana, excitement is brewing as the town prepares to welcome their hometown star with a parade and concert. And while John isn’t ruling out a spin on Dancing With the Stars (“It’s not a no,” he teased), right now he’s looking forward to something a little simpler. “Honestly, I just can’t wait to see my dog again,” he said with a smile.
During the finale, John took his second-place finish with total grace. As Jamal Roberts was crowned the winner, Foster stood proudly beside him, reflecting on the wild journey. “To be second out of 120,000 people? To make the Top 24 with the most talented group I’ve ever seen? That’s something I’ll always be proud of.”
Third-place finalist Breanna Nix shared similar sentiments. Though she was eliminated earlier in the finale, she says she felt at peace with the outcome. “God ordered every step I took on this show,” she said. “I had this feeling I’d be the first to go that night, and I was okay with it.”
Breanna even predicted Jamal’s win during Hollywood Week! “The first time I heard him sing, I just knew,” she said. “I went right up to him and said, ‘You’re going to win this thing. And I want to be the one who said it first!’” Sure enough, when Jamal took the crown, she reminded him of that moment — and he remembered.
Both John and Breanna agree: you don’t have to win American Idol to launch a meaningful career. “I already feel like I’ve won,” said Breanna. Her debut song, “Higher,” just dropped, and she’s excited about what’s next. “So many doors have opened. I’d come back to Idol in a heartbeat — as a mentor, judge, anything. It’ll always have a special place in my heart.”
As for John Foster, he’s just getting started — and he has some advice for future contestants:
“Be confident in who you are. Don’t let setbacks stop you. This isn’t the end — it’s just the beginning.”
The Season 23 finale of American Idol was one for the books – packed with powerful performances, emotional tributes, and a record-breaking 26 million votes. While Jamal Roberts ultimately claimed the title, runner-up John Foster has become a true fan favorite, especially in his home state of Louisiana.
At just 18 years old, the Addis native left a lasting impression with his soulful voice, heartfelt performances, and down-to-earth charm.
With fame comes a swirl of rumors, and Foster decided it was time to clear up a few things. In a recent Facebook post, he addressed some of the wild stories making the rounds online.
“I’m not 24 — I’m 18,” he wrote. “Born and raised in Louisiana. Never even been to Kentucky, but I hope to visit someday!”
He also set the record straight on the talk that he had signed with country legend Dwight Yoakam under Sugar Hill Records.
“I’m not related to Dwight Yoakam, and I’m not signed to any label right now,” Foster explained. “No connection — but I appreciate the love.”
Though fans continue to compare his traditional country sound to Yoakam’s, Foster is staying grounded and focused on making his own mark.
A Heartfelt Tribute That Touched Millions
One of Foster’s most unforgettable moments on Idol came when he honored his late friend Maggie Dunn with an emotional tribute. Maggie tragically passed away in 2022, and Foster’s performance brought the judges — and millions of viewers — to tears.
The sincerity behind his voice reminded fans why they fell in love with his music in the first place.
More Than Music: A Future in Medicine
Even as he chased his Idol dreams, Foster remained dedicated to another big goal — a career in medicine.
He’s currently a biology major at LSU and has plans to become an oncologist. Believe it or not, he even kept up with his online classes while competing on the show.
“Whether I choose medicine or music full time,” he shared, “I’ll always be part of the fight to find a cure.”
In early May, Foster launched a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, raffling off a signed photo. His goal was $500 — but in less than 24 hours, supporters had helped him raise over $3,500. The final total blew past expectations, showing just how much people believe in him.
Rooted in Family and Faith
Foster’s journey has been powered by faith, family, and community. At one point, 31 of his family members traveled to Los Angeles to cheer him on — a true testament to the love that surrounds him.
Whether he chooses the path of a country music star, a future doctor, or maybe both, one thing’s clear: John Foster has already made a big impact. And this is just the beginning.
Morgan Wallen gave fans an unforgettable night to remember as he wrapped up his first-ever Sand In My Boots Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama—with a surprise twist. Not only was this his first big headline show of 2025, but it also marked the live debut of seven brand-new tracks from his just-released album, I’m The Problem.
The festival finale, held on Sunday, May 18, drew a crowd of 40,000 fans, all eager to catch a glimpse of the country star in action. And Morgan did not disappoint. From the moment he stepped onstage with his signature “Broadway Girls” walkout, the energy was electric. He shared a few words about how the idea for the festival had been in the works for a while—and with the right team, it finally came to life in a big way.
Throughout the night, Morgan treated fans to an epic 23-song setlist that blended fan-favorites like “You Proof,” “Whiskey Glasses,” and “Sand In My Boots” with fresh tracks including “I’m The Problem,” “Kick Myself,” “Don’t We,” “Superman,” and “Just In Case.” Each new song brought something special, showcasing a deeper, more personal side of the singer.
Surprise appearances from Bailey Zimmerman and ERNEST added even more excitement. Zimmerman joined Morgan for “Up Down,” while ERNEST teamed up with him for their hit “Cowgirls.” These moments were major highlights and had fans singing along at the top of their lungs.
The performance ended on a high note with “The Way I Talk,” Morgan’s breakout hit that first put him on the map. Before exiting, he took a heartfelt moment to thank his fans:
“Thank each and every one of you guys for making this possible… for supporting me, for supporting my new album. I love each and every one of y’all!”
The entire show played out on a massive custom stage—160 feet wide and 70 feet tall—built specifically for the festival. Designed by the award-winning team at Raw Cereal, it was the studio’s largest festival build to date and gave the night a bold, retro feel.
But the festival wasn’t just about Morgan. With over 30 acts across multiple genres, fans also enjoyed performances from Post Malone, Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, T-Pain, The War On Drugs, Three 6 Mafia, and many more. It was a true mix of styles that reflected Morgan’s own musical influences.
His new album, I’m The Problem, features 37 tracks (yes, 37!) and includes collaborations with favorites like Post Malone, ERNEST, HARDY, Eric Church, and Tate McRae. Morgan co-wrote 22 of the songs, digging deep into his real-life experiences and emotions like never before.
And the journey doesn’t stop here. Morgan’s I’m The Problem Tour kicks off June 20 in Houston, Texas, and will hit major cities across North America—including a record-breaking two-night run at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
If this festival was any sign of what’s to come, fans are in for a wild and wonderful ride.
Ella Langley has been on a serious roll lately. After teaming up with Riley Green for their hit “You Look Like You Love Me,” the rising country star has been turning heads across Nashville — and beyond. It’s no surprise fans have been buzzing about who she might work with next. Well, country queen Miranda Lambert beat everyone to it.
Fans first got wind of a possible duet last fall when Lambert casually mentioned on the red carpet at the People’s Choice Country Awards that she was planning to collaborate with Langley. Since then? Crickets. That is, until this past weekend.
A Surprise Debut in Texas
Langley gave fans a surprise treat when she debuted the unreleased track at Banita Creek Hall in Nacogdoches, Texas. The cozy venue — which holds fewer than 500 people — made for the perfect place to test out a song this personal and raw.
Thanks to a fan in the crowd, part of the performance was captured and shared online, giving us a sneak peek at the heartfelt lyrics. Some lines that stood out include:
“She’s from Texas, I can tell / I can tell by the way / He’s two-stepping around the room / Judging by the smile that’s on his face / There’s nothing I can do.”
And:
“It doesn’t take a crystal ball to see / A cowboy always finds a way to leave / Drinking Jack all by myself / ’Cause he’s choosing Texas, I can tell.”
The song feels like a heartbreaking twist from Langley’s previous hit. Instead of falling in love, this time she’s watching it slip away — and fans are already feeling the emotional punch.
Will Miranda Be on the Track?
One big mystery still remains: Will Miranda Lambert actually be singing on the song? So far, no official word has confirmed whether this is a full duet or if Lambert co-wrote the song behind the scenes. Either way, her creative fingerprint is clearly all over it.
For now, fans will have to sit tight and wait for the official release. But if this live version is any indication, Langley and Lambert may have just cooked up one of the most anticipated country songs of the year.
Country music legend Alan Jackson is officially wrapping up his touring days — and he did it in style.
Over the weekend, Jackson took the stage at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum for what he confirmed was his final road show. In front of a packed house of 14,000 fans, the Country Music Hall of Famer made the heartfelt announcement.
“Y’all may have heard that I’m kinda winding down,” he said from the stage. “In fact, this is my last road show of my career.” The crowd erupted in applause as Jackson held back emotion. “Y’all are gonna make me tear up up here,” he added with a smile.
But the news wasn’t all bittersweet — Jackson also hinted at a proper farewell on the horizon. “We’re planning a big finale show in Nashville next summer sometime,” he teased. “We just felt like we had to end it where it all began — Nashville, Tennessee. Music City. I gotta do the last one there.”
Milwaukee fans were treated to a memorable night as Jackson delivered hit after hit, including fan favorites like “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” “Gone Country,” “Livin’ On Love,” and “Remember When.”
Looking back on his incredible journey, Jackson reflected, “It’s been a long, sweet ride. I’ve really lived the American dream. I’m so blessed.”
With nearly 60 million albums sold, 60+ singles (including 35 No. 1 hits), and more than 150 major awards, Alan Jackson’s legacy is undeniable. Known for his heartfelt, down-to-earth songwriting, he’s been a true voice of country music for over three decades.
Florida got its last Alan Jackson show last night. Glad I got to see it. Next year, he plans on his last show ever in Nashville. We don’t get legends like this twice. Thank you for the music, Mr. Jackson. #alanjackson#countrymusic#legend#thankyou#florida#country#Final#fyp
In 2019, Jackson shared that he has been living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a genetic neurological condition that affects balance and mobility. Despite the challenges, he continued to tour — even donating a portion of ticket sales to the CMT Research Foundation, helping raise over $2.25 million.
“It’s something I inherited from my daddy,” he shared in a candid interview. “There’s no cure for it, and it’s been affecting me for years. I know I’m stumbling around on stage, and I’m starting to feel more unsteady, even just standing at the microphone. It’s tough.”
Still, Jackson remains grateful. “Thank y’all for supporting my music all these years,” he told the crowd. “Thank you for coming to the shows, buying the records, and having a good time with us. I’m just so fortunate, so lucky.”
As Alan Jackson prepares for his final curtain call in Nashville, fans everywhere are reflecting on the music, memories, and moments he’s given us — and cheering him on as he rides off into the sunset.
The American Idol Season 23 finale was packed with surprises, emotional moments, and unforgettable performances — and one of the most touching came straight from the judges themselves.
Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan teamed up for a moving rendition of Richie’s classic hit “Stuck On You.” The performance kicked off with Richie stepping center stage, singing the opening lines with his signature warmth and charm. As he gently swayed to the music, Carrie Underwood joined him, adding her crystal-clear vocals to the mix.
“That’s mighty pretty, girl. Mighty pretty,” Richie smiled, clearly impressed by Underwood’s take on the tune.
Luke Bryan rounded out the trio, singing the familiar lyrics:
“I’m stuck on you / Been a fool too long / I guess it’s time for me to come on home…”
Together, the trio took turns sharing verses, harmonizing beautifully as the audience swayed and sang along. The moment felt like a heartfelt celebration of music and friendship, with fans raving about it online.
“This was absolutely amazing, especially with one of the best songs of all time! Lionel, Luke, and Carrie sounded incredible,” one fan commented.
Another wrote, “I love these three — as singers and judges! Lionel still sounds just like he did back in the day, Luke brings so much heart, and Carrie’s a perfect fit this season!”
Originally released in 1984, “Stuck On You” marked Lionel Richie’s debut on country radio and reached No. 24 on the charts. A proud Alabama native, Richie has long had a love for country music. In fact, his 2012 Tuskegee album featured country reimaginings of his biggest hits with stars like Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, Shania Twain, and Willie Nelson.
The finale wasn’t short on star power either, with performances from Cody Johnson, Jessica Simpson, Jelly Roll, Good Charlotte, the Goo Goo Dolls, The War and Treaty, and many more.
But the biggest moment of the night came when Jamal Roberts was officially crowned the next American Idol. The emotional announcement left Roberts speechless, and later he shared a heartfelt message with fans:
“Still trying to process this… I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol. This win means the world — not just for me, but for my girls and everyone out there chasing something bigger.”
He ended his message with a promise:
“This isn’t the end — it’s just the beginning. From the bottom of my heart… THANK YOU.”
Morgan Wallen didn’t plan on getting inspired during a routine stop at his lawyer’s office—but that’s exactly what happened. While heading to court, the country star noticed some classic courtroom sketches hanging on the wall and suddenly, the idea for his I’m The Problem album cover hit him.
“We were tossing around ideas for the artwork, and I saw these old-school court drawings,” Wallen told Apple Music’s Zane Lowe. “Something just clicked. I thought, ‘This could be cool.’”
After a quick search revealed no one had really done it before, Wallen figured he might be onto something fresh and original. While the final image isn’t from his actual court case—he said that felt “too real”—it still nods to that chapter of his life. The finished cover is a moody sketch of Wallen in profile, complete with his signature long hair, mustache, and a white button-up.
“I wanted people to look at it and think, ‘Wait, is that a courtroom sketch?’” he explained. “It toes the line between real life and artistic interpretation, and I think it looks cool.”
Owning His Story — One Track at a Time
The same raw honesty shows up in the album’s title: I’m The Problem. At first glance, it sounds like a direct acknowledgment of Wallen’s past controversies—but it runs deeper than that.
Speaking with Today’s Country Radio, Wallen shared that the title represents a personal turning point.
“I’ve always tried to take accountability,” he said. “This album feels like a stamp on that. Like, here I am—flaws and all.”
A 37-Track Journey of Heartbreak, Healing, and Growth
Available now through Big Loud / Mercury, I’m The Problem spans 37 tracks that blend country, pop, and rock influences. Wallen tapped some big names for collaborations, including Post Malone, Tate McRae, ERNEST, HARDY, and Eric Church.
Before the full album even dropped, it was already making waves. Wallen scored three No. 1 hits at country radio and had six songs crack the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10.
With this project, he invites fans into a more vulnerable side of his world—exploring heartbreak, regret, personal growth, and everything in between.
Mixing Genres, Staying True
As always, Wallen brings his eclectic taste to the table. Whether it’s country storytelling, alternative edge, or a pop-driven hook, each track finds its place.
“We had straight-up country songs, more alt-indie stuff, and then cross-genre tracks,” he said. “I’ve always listened to everything—from rap to rock to gospel—so that naturally comes through.”
Wallen and his team recorded around 50 songs for the album and trimmed it down to 37, with 22 of them co-written by the singer himself. In total, the project features contributions from nearly 50 songwriters—each helping shape this ambitious body of work.
What’s Next: Tour, Festival, and More
Wallen isn’t slowing down anytime soon. He’ll kick off his I’m The Problem Tour on June 20 in Houston, Texas, with a packed lineup of openers like Brooks & Dunn, Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett, and Koe Wetzel.
He’s also set to make history with two back-to-back shows at Camp Randall Stadium in Wisconsin—something no artist has done before.
Plus, fans can catch him earlier at his Sand In My Boots Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and a special album release show in London on May 28.
