The 60th ACM Awards were full of unforgettable moments, but none sparked more buzz than Blake Shelton’s surprise reunion on stage with his ex-wife. The two stunned the crowd — and the internet — when they joined forces for a heartfelt performance of their classic hit, “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma.”

It had been over a decade since the former couple shared a stage, but the chemistry was still there. From the moment they started singing, you could feel the room shift. Their harmonies were flawless, their timing natural, and the few exchanged glances didn’t go unnoticed by fans or fellow artists.

Jelly Roll, clearly caught up in the nostalgia, stood mid-performance, clapping and mouthing every word like a fan at a hometown show. But while some were cheering, not everyone was smiling.

Cameras caught glimpses of Gwen Stefani — Blake’s current wife — sitting in the audience with a composed but unreadable expression. She didn’t speak, but her serious face and still posture were enough to light up social media with speculation. Comments poured in describing her as looking “tense” or “uncomfortable,” while others defended her, noting that the moment was probably awkward no matter how supportive she is.

Behind the scenes, insiders say the duet was kept tightly under wraps. Only a select few knew it was happening until just before the curtain lifted. “It was a bold move,” one show producer shared. “It paid off, but it definitely stirred some emotions.”

Was it a simple nod to country music history or a performance loaded with personal meaning? No one’s saying for sure. But in true country fashion, the moment mixed heartache, history, and raw emotion — the stuff great songs (and headlines) are made of.

Whatever the backstory, the performance may have only lasted a few minutes, but the aftershocks are still being felt — onstage, backstage, and likely at home, too.

Long before he became a finalist on American Idol, John Foster had his first public performance at a small, homegrown spot known as Morley Marina, nestled in the heart of what locals call Back Brusly.

Not from around there? In Brusly, Louisiana, everything west of Highway 1 is lovingly referred to as “Back Brusly.” Cross the highway, and you’re officially in Front Brusly—a local distinction that residents wear like a badge of honor.

Jeremy Prejean, manager of Morley Marina and a longtime family friend, remembers that first performance like it was yesterday. He’s watched John grow up, right next door. And if you ask Jeremy, the real MVP behind John’s musical spark was his uncle, Gaylen Martin.

He’s not the only one who thinks so. Rick Bourgoyne and Blake Sarradet, both longtime workers at John’s family business—Benoit’s Country Meat Block in Addis—say Martin played a huge role in helping John find his footing as a performer. Even John’s grandmother, Verbie Benoit, agrees.

Though Martin doesn’t seek the spotlight or the credit, he admits he saw something special in John early on.

“I’d show him a few chords on the guitar, give him something to practice, and the next day, he had it down,” Martin said. “He just picked it up so fast.”

Martin didn’t hesitate to take time off work to travel with John to his American Idol audition in Nashville—and then again to Hawaii. Now, he’s headed to Hollywood for a second time, supporting his nephew every step of the way.

Despite not being related by blood—Martin married John’s aunt—there’s no doubt about the deep bond they share. And when John returned home to perform in his Idol hometown concert, Martin stood proudly by his side on stage, guitar in hand, playing for the biggest crowd of his life.

“That was the largest audience I’ve ever played for,” Martin said with a smile.

Seeing him up there struck a chord with many in the tight-knit West Bank community. People like Aimee Rabalais, secretary at Brusly High School, felt proud just watching him.

“I was so happy Gaylen got to be up there with John,” she said. “I just know his heart was overflowing.”

That shared moment almost didn’t happen. Martin had taken a break from music after the sudden loss of his brother and longtime bandmate. It was John who helped bring music back into his life.

“John Foster brought me back,” Martin said. “I’ll always be grateful.”

Gratitude is something the Addis and Brusly communities know a lot about—especially after the heartbreak they’ve endured. From the tragic 2011 loss of beloved Brusly High teacher Sylviane Lozada, to the deaths of three high school students in under a year, including Maggie Dunn, who was one of John’s close friends.

@qtmandyyy

This is the best Valedictorian speech I have ever heard. Yes, it is my son, but this just shows you just what kind of old soul and great person he actually is. His music isnt his only gift from God but his intelligence is as well! I cant wait to see exactly where God leads you. I know you are going to do great things! #johnfostermusic #Classof2024 #valedictorianspeech #godsgift #maggiewashere #ourangelmaggiewillalwaysbewithus #BHS #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fypage #fypシ゚viral

♬ original sound – Amanda

John even wrote a song for Maggie, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” which he performed on American Idol earlier this season. The two went to homecoming together. He honored her in his valedictorian speech, a moment that went viral on social media—well before anyone knew his name across the country.

Brusly High principal Walt Lemoine remembers that speech vividly.

“Reading it on paper, it seemed like any other valedictorian speech,” he said. “But the way he delivered it—man, that kid just has it. He’s always had it.”

This past week in Brusly has felt like a whirlwind of pride and emotion. The school’s track team won state. The softball team made it to the finals. The community packed into downtown for John’s pep rally and concert. And by Saturday, they were in Sulphur, cheering on the high school baseball team in the state championship.

Even though the baseball team fell short in the end, losing 7-3 to North DeSoto, the spirit of the town hasn’t dimmed. They’ve weathered harder storms—and they always lift each other up.

John Foster isn’t just singing for a title. He’s singing for his people—for every loss, every celebration, every hug on a front porch, every small-town cheer from both sides of the Mississippi River.

And if you listen closely on Sunday night, you just might hear all of Back Brusly and Front Brusly singing right along with him.

The moment we’ve all been waiting for is almost here! After weeks of unforgettable performances, emotional highs, and fan-favorite moments, American Idol Season 23 is down to its final three: John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix. One of them is about to become the next American Idol—and it all goes down Sunday, May 18 at 8 PM ET on ABC and streaming on Hulu.

Meet the Finalists: What Makes Each One Shine
Breanna Nix – The Heartfelt Songbird

Breanna has moved viewers with every performance, bringing powerful vocals and raw emotion to the stage. A stay-at-home mom with a background in gospel music, she’s bravely shared her journey with self-confidence, connecting deeply with fans.

Although she may not lead in online engagement, Breanna has delivered standout moments like “You’ll Be in My Heart” and “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” which earned over 150K views each. Her future in Contemporary Christian Music looks bright, no matter the finale outcome.

Jamal Roberts – The Born Entertainer

Jamal, a P.E. teacher from Mississippi, has proven he’s more than just a voice—he’s a full-on performer. From soulful ballads to high-energy showstoppers, he’s kept both judges and fans on their toes.

With performances like “Beauty and the Beast” (1.1M views) and “A Change is Gonna Come” (1.3M), Jamal has racked up a loyal following. Lionel Richie called him one of the season’s most versatile voices, and Luke Bryan hinted he could go all the way.

John Foster – The Country Favorite

At just 18, John Foster has become the frontrunner with his smooth tone, charming personality, and classic country style. While he doesn’t have the widest range, his song choices and delivery consistently resonate with the Idol fanbase.

His version of “Believe” pulled in a whopping 2.2 million views—more than any other contestant this season. With past country winners like Laine Hardy and Noah Thompson paving the way, John could very well be next in line.

The Fan Forecast: Who Will Win vs. Who Should Win?
Who Fans Think Will Win:

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John Foster – 53.64%

Jamal Roberts – 34.38%

Breanna Nix – 11.98%

Who Fans Want to Win:

Jamal Roberts – 44.96%

John Foster – 39.71%

Breanna Nix – 15.32%

The numbers suggest a close battle between John and Jamal—one driven by heart, the other by hype. Breanna trails in both polls but has certainly made a lasting impression.

Social Media Buzz: A Glimpse at the Momentum
Over the past two weeks, Facebook performance views tell a compelling story:

John Foster – Over 4.2 million views

Jamal Roberts – Around 2.8 million views

Breanna Nix – Just under 800K views

While John leads in the numbers game, Jamal’s recent single “Heal” has sparked an emotional reaction from fans and could give him a powerful last-minute push.

What to Expect on Finale Night
The grand finale isn’t just about crowning a winner—it’s also a full-blown celebration of music! The three-hour event will feature performances from music icons and special guests, including:

Patti LaBelle

Goo Goo Dolls

Good Charlotte

Josh Groban

Jessica Simpson

Salt-N-Pepa

Kirk Franklin

Brandon Lake

The War and Treaty

PJ Morton

Jennifer Holliday

Jelly Roll (Artist in Residence)

Plus, the judges—Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie—will take the stage too. Look out for epic duets like:

Gabby Samone with Jennifer Holliday

Thunderstorm Artis with The War and Treaty

Kolbi Jordan with Patti LaBelle

Final Prediction
While anything can happen live, the momentum points toward John Foster as the likely winner of American Idol 2025. His country charm and massive digital reach make him a fan favorite. Still, Jamal Roberts has the kind of emotional depth and star power that could spark an upset.

Don’t Miss It!
American Idol 2025 Finale
Sunday, May 18
8 PM ET / 5 PM PT
Live on ABC and streaming next day on Hulu

It’s been a season full of talent, growth, and unforgettable moments—now it’s time to crown the next American Idol.

With the American Idol Season 23 finale just hours away, finalist Jamal Roberts is giving fans something powerful to hold on to—his brand-new single, “Heal.”

Released late on May 17 through 19 Recordings, “Heal” marks the 27-year-old soul singer’s first official single since his journey on Idol began. But despite the late-night drop, fans were wide awake, rushing to stream, download, and share their reactions on social media—many calling it “the song the nation needs right now.”

Roberts first stunned audiences with his emotional performance of “Heal,” originally by Tom Odell, during the April 28 live show. The stripped-down, heartfelt cover left the judges—Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie—momentarily speechless. Now, he’s set to perform it again during the May 18 finale, and fans are already calling it a showstopper.

His new version takes things even deeper. Backed by a gospel choir, Roberts doesn’t just sing—he pours out a message of pain, hope, and healing. In the final minute of the track, he adds his own powerful lyrics:

“Lord, you’re the only one that can do it for me. We need you, we need you to heal… from depression, from suicidal thoughts, from sickness. Restoration right now.”

The song’s release sparked an outpouring of love online. One fan wrote, “The ending… CHURCH!!! You’re so special, Jamal! #RestorationRightNow.” Another called the track “Legendary,” while a third said, “This is the sound we all needed.”

Even Joe Arbagey, Executive VP of Music at 19 Recordings, commented on Instagram, calling the experience of working on the song “incredibly life changing.”

When Roberts first performed “Heal” on Idol, his stage presence was magnetic. Sitting alone on a stool, his delivery was so intense that the room fell completely silent—even producers seemed caught off guard when the performance ended. There were a few seconds of stunned quiet before the show moved on.

His moving take on the song was shaped with the help of his mentor that week, Idol alum and Grammy-winner Fantasia Barrino. Roberts admitted he had never heard of the song before it was shared with him—but when he read the lyrics, it immediately resonated.

“Like your songs, it spoke to me,” he told Fantasia. “I don’t care what genre the song is—I just need to insert myself into it.”

Fantasia, clearly touched by his emotional depth, told producers, “I watched him. He loses himself in the music. When the world is probably so ugly and hard, music is his safe place.”

Now, with “Heal” officially out in the world and one final Idol performance ahead, Jamal Roberts is showing that music isn’t just his safe place—it’s a space where others can find comfort too.

“Heal” is available now on all streaming platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify.

One of the most emotional and powerful moments of American Idol 2025 unfolded when Jelly Roll, this season’s first-ever Artist in Residence, helped turn the Idol stage into something deeper—a place of healing and raw truth.

At the center of it all was 18-year-old John Foster from Addis, Louisiana. All season long, Foster has captured hearts with his sincerity and emotional storytelling, but his recent performance may have been his most moving yet.

He sang an original song called “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” written in memory of his close friends Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, who tragically passed away in a 2022 car accident. The performance alone had the audience holding their breath. But what came next made the moment truly unforgettable.

As the final notes faded, Jelly Roll joined Foster on stage and pulled out a handwritten letter. With tears in his eyes and emotion in his voice, he read the note aloud. He praised Foster not just for his talent, but for his bravery and honesty, telling him: “In a world where authenticity is rare, you stand out as a beacon of truth.” The studio fell into a hush. It wasn’t just applause—it was a shared emotional experience.

Even the judges couldn’t hold back their emotions. Carrie Underwood, clearly moved, called Foster “the heart of country music,” and added, “He’s bringing country back.” She praised his ability to tell stories that feel personal yet universal, reminding fans of the roots of country music—simple, heartfelt, and real.

Jelly Roll’s role this season has been more than just mentor. He’s shown these young artists how to turn pain into purpose and music into healing. His connection with Foster, grounded in mutual grief and deep respect for the craft, has become one of the show’s most beautiful storylines.

This wasn’t just another performance. It was a reminder of what American Idol can be: a stage where real stories matter, where music can comfort and connect, and where artists like John Foster shine for simply being true to themselves.

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On October 25, 2017, country fans at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena witnessed a moment they’ll never forget — Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert taking the stage together for an emotional performance of “These Days I Barely Get By.”

The duet wasn’t just musically stunning — it was deeply moving. The lyrics, full of heartache and reflection, hit especially hard given the duo’s shared history. Blake and Miranda, once country music’s golden couple, were married from 2011 until their split in 2015. And while both have since moved on — Blake with Gwen Stefani and Miranda with Brendan McLoughlin — their voices still carry the echoes of the past when they sing songs like this one.

As the two sang with raw emotion, the crowd was silent — captivated by the bittersweet magic unfolding onstage. Every lyric felt personal, every note tinged with the kind of honesty only time and experience can bring. Fans described it as a moment of musical closure, connection, and undeniable talent.

For those lucky enough to be there, it was more than just a duet — it was a powerful reminder of how music can touch hearts, stir memories, and bring even the most complicated stories full circle.

American Idol finalist John Foster has never shied away from wearing his heart on his sleeve—and during a recent live episode, that heart broke wide open.

In a deeply emotional moment that left both the audience and judges misty-eyed, John took a quiet pause from the spotlight to share personal news: his beloved mother is facing a serious heart condition. “My mom has always been my rock,” he said, his voice trembling. “She’s going through some tough health stuff right now, and I just want her to know—I’m singing every note for her.”

That honest confession changed everything. Suddenly, every lyric John sang hit harder, felt deeper. His performances, already full of soul, now carried the weight of real-life love and loss—and fans felt it.

Fans Show Up With Prayers and Love
It didn’t take long for fans across the country to start pouring out support. Social media lit up with messages of hope, prayer chains, and heartfelt stories. One fan wrote, “I’ve never cried during Idol before. John’s love for his mom is beautiful. We’re all behind you, John.”

Even fellow contestants and judges stood by him. Lionel Richie told him on-air, “You’ve got a heart that moves people, John. That’s rare—and we’re with you, every step of the way.”

Music With a Deeper Meaning
Since the news, John’s songs have felt different. There’s more than just melody—there’s memory, meaning, and a mission to carry on for someone he loves deeply. Backstage, he opened up: “Singing is how I cope. It’s how I show her I’m here, I’m strong, and I’m doing this for her.”

Despite everything, John hasn’t missed a beat. He’s rehearsing, showing up, and pouring every ounce of himself into each performance. “My mom would want me to keep going,” he said. “She’s always been my biggest cheerleader.”

A Story That’s Touching Hearts Everywhere
John Foster’s journey on American Idol is now about more than just music. It’s about the love between a mother and her son. It’s about resilience, vulnerability, and pushing forward through heartbreak.

As fans wait for his next performance, one thing is clear: John isn’t just a voice to root for—he’s a soul to believe in.

Blake Shelton brought a whole lot of country charm — and a big Texas-sized sound — to The Kelly Clarkson Show with a lively performance of his newest hit, “Texas.” With his trusty guitar, a full band behind him, and that signature Blake grin, he turned the studio into a rowdy, heartfelt celebration of the Lone Star State.

The crowd clapped along as Shelton poured his heart into the lyrics, painting vivid pictures of Texas pride, open roads, and hard goodbyes. The vibe was electric — equal parts rugged and warm, just like the state that inspired the song.

Host Kelly Clarkson, a proud Texan herself, couldn’t help but smile through the whole thing. It was a moment that felt like home, especially for those who know what it means to be “cut loose” and still stand tall.

“Texas” is already making waves as Blake’s 30th No. 1 hit, and this performance just reminded fans why he keeps hitting gold — authenticity, heart, and a whole lot of fun.

Keith Urban wrapped up his Las Vegas residency in the most heartwarming way — with a surprise visit from his biggest fan and partner in life, Nicole Kidman.

The unforgettable moment happened Saturday night at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace. As Keith was deep into his set, the crowd suddenly erupted into cheers — and there she was, Nicole, stepping onto the stage with a smile that lit up the room.

In a playful moment caught on video and shared by Urban himself, he treated his wife of 16 years like a surprise guest. “What’s your name? Where are you from?” he joked, grinning ear to ear. “Nicole Urban,” she replied with a laugh, sending fans into even louder cheers.

But Nicole had a mission: “I came to get your jacket,” she said, pointing out that he’d left it on stage earlier. The two strolled together to retrieve it, sharing laughs as Keith helped her slip it on. “She told me, ‘Don’t lose that jacket,’ and here I am—already lost it!” Keith teased, discovering a band member had moved it during the show.

Urban’s Vegas run was extended after Adele postponed her residency, and Keith jumped in to fill the gap. “We got a pretty panicked call one night asking if we could help out — and it worked out perfectly,” he shared in a past interview.

Sunday night marked the final show of his Vegas stint, and now he’s gearing up for a summer tour across the U.S. He’s more than ready. “I feel like a caged animal kicking at the gate to be let out,” he joked in a press release.

Nicole continues to be one of his biggest supporters, and the feeling is mutual. “Meeting him later in life has been the best thing that ever happened to me,” she said in a recent interview. “That man is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

The couple, who tied the knot in 2006, are parents to two daughters — Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret — and continue to show the world what real support, love, and partnership look like.

Whether it’s an awards show, a film premiere, or a surprise jacket rescue on stage, these two never miss a chance to show up for each other. And fans love them all the more for it.

Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani are back at it — and fans are loving every second of it!

The beloved country-pop couple just released their newest collaboration, “Hangin’ On” — an energetic, toe-tapping tune that blends Blake’s signature country grit with Gwen’s pop sparkle. While the beat is upbeat, the lyrics tell a different story: one about love slipping away.

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That twist almost kept Gwen from jumping in.

“She’s so funny,” Blake shared during an appearance on TODAY with Jenna & Friends. “She doesn’t like to sing songs unless she really connects with the lyrics — and this one’s a breakup song. But singing it with her was just too much fun. I wouldn’t have recorded it without her.”

The track is part of Blake’s brand-new album For Recreational Use Only, which officially dropped on May 9. It marks his first full-length album in four years.

“I’m just excited for people to finally hear the whole thing,” Blake said. “It’s tough to find songs that feel fresh, but I think we pulled it off again.”

A Duo That Keeps Delivering
Married since 2021, Blake and Gwen have made a habit of blending their unique sounds — and “Hangin’ On” is their seventh duet together. They last shared the stage in February 2024 for a stunning live performance of their romantic hit “Purple Irises” at the Super Bowl TikTok Tailgate in Las Vegas.

That song, which Gwen wrote while experimenting with new styles, turned into another unexpected gem. Despite their musical differences, the pair has a knack for finding common ground — and turning it into magic.

From heartfelt ballads to high-energy anthems, Blake and Gwen continue to show that love and music make a pretty unbeatable combo.