John Foster, the rising country star from Addis, Louisiana, continues to win over America with his heartfelt performances—and his latest cover of Brooks & Dunn’s classic “Neon Moon” was no exception. With just his voice and a deep emotional pull, John turned a well-known country hit into something deeply personal and moving.

“Neon Moon,” a staple of ‘90s country, tells the story of love lost under glowing bar lights. While many have sung it before, Foster made it feel like we were hearing it for the first time. His voice—warm, weathered, and rich with feeling—brought a quiet intensity to the stage that had everyone listening just a little closer.

Carrie Underwood, clearly touched, was seen softly mouthing the lyrics and swaying in her seat, a true nod of respect to the young singer. Without any flashy gimmicks, Foster once again reminded the audience what country music is all about—real stories and raw emotion.

Fans were quick to share their love:

“He doesn’t just sing country—he lives it.”
“If there’s ever a new Highwaymen group, John Foster’s got my vote.”

What makes John stand out is his ability to tell a story with every word. He doesn’t chase trends or over-sing. Instead, he leans into the roots of the genre—where pain, hope, and heartache find their way into every note. In a world full of big moments, Foster shines by keeping things simple and real.

His “Neon Moon” performance wasn’t just a tribute—it was a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful moments on stage come from quiet honesty and genuine soul.

On April 28, 2025, American Idol lit up with nostalgia and raw emotion during its “Iconic American Idol Moments” episode—and 18-year-old John Foster stole the spotlight. The country singer from Addis, Louisiana, delivered a moving rendition of Randy Travis’s classic “I Told You So,” a song also famously covered by Carrie Underwood. With his warm, soulful voice and heartfelt delivery, Foster turned the stage into a moment country fans won’t soon forget.

Throughout Season 23, Foster has stood out for his deep-rooted love of traditional country music and his ability to make every song feel personal. Week after week, he’s connected with audiences and judges alike—not just with his voice, but with his vulnerability.

One of his most talked-about performances came earlier in the season, when he sang an original song titled “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” It was a tearful tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn, who tragically passed away in a car accident on New Year’s Eve 2022. That performance left a lasting impression and proved Foster wasn’t just a great singer—he was a storyteller.

With “I Told You So,” Foster once again showed why he’s a fan favorite. His emotional depth, vocal control, and timeless sound reminded everyone that traditional country still has a powerful place on today’s stage. As the judges said, it wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment.

Riley Green and Ella Langley brought serious emotion and undeniable chemistry to the stage during their television debut of “Don’t Mind If I Do” on the season finale of The Voice (Dec. 10 on NBC).

The performance started with Green sitting solo on a stool, surrounded by a cozy, candlelit stage designed to look like a giant whiskey barrel. Bathed in the warm glow of a single spotlight, he delivered the opening verse and chorus of the heartfelt breakup ballad, gently strumming his guitar as he sang:

“I’ve been doin’ better, I hardly ever think of you lately… I end up in that place and I’m just one whiskey away…”

Just as the emotion began to build, Langley joined him, adding soft harmonies that perfectly complemented Green’s soulful vocals. She then took her place beside him to sing the final chorus, offering a poignant female perspective that answered Green’s lyrics with a tender and vulnerable response:

“Well, I don’t mind if you do… Drink a little too much and show up at my house…”

Their voices blended beautifully, creating a raw and relatable moment that left the audience captivated.

Green recently shared the story behind the song, revealing that he initially called Langley just to help find the right key for the track. Later, when he was in the studio recording it, he invited her to lay down a quick vocal demo. But once she sang it—still in her sweats, fresh from home—he instantly knew she was the perfect choice for the duet.

“She just crushed it,” Green said. “I couldn’t imagine anybody doing it better than she did.”

That “accidental” collaboration turned into something special. “Don’t Mind If I Do” is now the title track of Green’s newly released third studio album and a standout moment for both artists.

Their performance on The Voice came just days after their other duet, “You Look Like You Love Me,” hit No. 1 on U.S. country radio. The song also topped country charts internationally, including in Canada, the UK, and Australia.

To top it all off, the pair recently took home the CMA Award for Musical Event of the Year—marking the first-ever CMA wins for both Green and Langley.

Fans won’t have to wait long to see more of them together: they’re hitting the road again next year for Riley Green’s Damn Country Music Tour. With the momentum they’re building, it’s clear this duo is just getting started.

John Foster has been captivating audiences on American Idol ever since his unforgettable audition, where he wowed the judges with his powerful performances of “Goodbye Time” and “Don’t Rock the Jukebox.” Right away, Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan saw something special in him. Each week, he’s continued to impress, with standout moments like his high-energy rendition of “Jailhouse Rock.” As his fanbase grows, so does the curiosity about his personal life, prompting Foster to take a moment to address a few of the rumors floating around online.

In a recent Facebook post, John connected with his followers, setting the record straight on some misinformation. He clarified that he’s 18 years old, not 24, as some have speculated, and that he hails from Addis, Louisiana, not Benton, Kentucky—a place he’s never even been.

He also took the time to debunk rumors about being related to country icon Dwight Yoakam or being signed to Sugar Hill Records. While he admits the rumors are flattering, he wanted to be upfront with his fans and reassure them that these claims are simply not true.

With a genuine appreciation for his supporters, Foster encouraged fans to reach out with any questions they might have, assuring them that either he or someone close to him would be happy to respond.

John’s humble approach and sincere connection with his audience continue to win hearts, both on and off the stage. As he gears up for the Ladies Night episode on May 4, his spot in the American Idol Top 10 is more solid than ever, propelled by his undeniable talent, authenticity, and growing bond with his fans.

Jamal Roberts closed out the night on American Idol with a performance that stopped everyone in their tracks. Taking on Tom Odell’s emotional ballad “Heal,” Jamal didn’t just sing—he opened his heart and let it speak through every lyric.

From the first soft note, the room went completely still. His voice, equal parts fragile and fierce, carried the kind of emotion you don’t hear every day. You could feel his pain, his hope, his story—woven into every word.

By the time he reached the chorus, the entire audience was completely absorbed. Tears were visible in the crowd, and the judges sat in stunned silence, visibly moved by the depth of his performance.

Lionel Richie didn’t hold back his praise, calling the moment “divine.” He added, “There are times when music goes beyond talent and becomes something sacred. This was one of those times.”

Carrie Underwood, watching from the wings, could only place her hand over her heart, visibly emotional and proud.

When the final note faded, there was a heartbeat of silence—a rare and powerful pause that said it all. Then came the standing ovation, loud and long, as if the crowd knew they had just witnessed something unforgettable.

Not only did Jamal earn a place in the Top 10 that night—he made his mark as a true artist. With raw honesty, powerful storytelling, and a voice that won’t be forgotten, Jamal reminded the world why music matters. And if this performance was any sign, his journey is only just beginning.

Jamal Roberts’ journey on American Idol 2025 is more than just about hitting the right notes—it’s a heartfelt story of resilience, purpose, and love. This soulful father from Meridian, Mississippi, has captured the hearts of fans not only with his powerful performances but with the authenticity and strength he exudes every time he steps on stage. As a father of two young daughters, Jamal’s love for his family shines through every song he sings.

From the very beginning of the competition, Jamal has been open about what motivates him: his daughters. Their laughter, dreams, and belief in him fuel his passion. His Idol journey is about more than fame—it’s about showing his children the importance of courage, especially when the stakes are high.

One of the most unforgettable moments came during the April 28 Top 10 performance night, when Jamal delivered an emotionally charged rendition of Tom Odell’s “Heal.” Seated on a stool with soft lighting surrounding him, his performance was so moving that the entire studio audience fell into stunned silence. Even Idol host Ryan Seacrest, sensing the gravity of the moment, paused before speaking. The judges, deeply touched, were invited to join him on stage in silence—a moment that said more than words ever could.

Judge Fantasia Barrino was seen wiping away tears, as the raw emotion in Jamal’s performance resonated deeply with everyone present. His rendition of “Heal” was a personal, soul-stirring prayer, much like Leah Marlene’s unforgettable performance of the same song in season 20. But Jamal made it uniquely his own.

Fans were quick to express their emotions on social media:

“He is just incredible! I think everyone in the building, including the production team, was captivated… they forgot the light show!”

“Jamal, you are on a mission . We are not worthy. The tears are flowing ”

“My mind can’t even process what just happened… truly amazing.”

It’s official—Jamal Roberts is in the Top 10 of American Idol Season 23, and it’s no surprise. His voice, his storytelling, and his vulnerability have set him apart from the rest. His story is one of courage—the courage to dream big, to be vulnerable, and to keep pushing forward for himself and his daughters.

When the Kennedy Center Honors celebrated its 2018 class of legendary artists, country icon Reba McEntire took center stage—and no one brought the house down quite like Kelly Clarkson.

The tribute event, known for recognizing artists who’ve left a lasting impact on American culture, was filled with unforgettable performances. But when Clarkson stepped up to sing “Fancy,” the emotion in the room shifted. Dressed in bold red and full of heart, she gave a powerhouse performance that brought the audience—and Reba—to tears.

Kelly and Reba share more than just admiration for each other’s music. They’ve been close for years, with a bond that grew even stronger when Kelly married Brandon Blackstock, the son of Reba’s former husband. Though their family ties have since changed, their friendship has remained rock solid.

Before Clarkson sang a single note, the emotional weight of the moment was already clear. She spoke from the heart, calling Reba not just a musical influence but a personal inspiration and guiding light in her life.

As Kelly launched into “Fancy,” Reba was overcome with emotion. Cameras captured her wiping away tears as Clarkson’s voice soared through the venue, hitting every powerful note with passion and precision. Audience members could be seen reacting in awe—mouths agape, eyes wide, and heads nodding in admiration.

The performance wasn’t just technically stunning—it was heartfelt and deeply personal, reminding everyone why both Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire are beloved icons in their own right.

If you haven’t seen this unforgettable moment yet, it’s worth watching. And for longtime fans, you can also revisit the time Reba and Kelly teamed up to sing “Fancy” as a duet—it’s pure magic.

On an ordinary Wednesday morning, Side Porch Daiquiris in Addis, Louisiana, was calm and quiet—the radio playing softly in the background and the daiquiri machines humming along. But just a few weeks ago, the atmosphere here was anything but serene. The bar was buzzing with energy, filled with music and excitement as local favorite John Foster performed what could be his last hometown show before stepping onto the national stage of American Idol.

“I always had a feeling he’d outgrow us one day,” said Brady Creighton, the bar’s manager. Creighton started booking Foster right after the pandemic, when the now 18-year-old, Top 10 American Idol contestant was still just a teenager with a guitar and big dreams.

Shaping a Star on the Westside
For Foster, the Westside bar scene and local festivals weren’t just gigs—they were his training ground. From Side Porch to Charlie’s Lounge to the Feast on the Levee festival in Brusly, Foster polished his classic country style and developed his natural stage presence long before he ever hit the American Idol stage.

“That’s the same voice he’s had since he was 16 or 17,” Creighton said, adding that John’s confidence, tone, and charisma were obvious even in his early performances.

Locals still talk about watching Foster play small crowds with the energy of a stadium show. Gary Tullier, a longtime fan, recalled telling him after a festival performance, “Man, you did great, you should go on American Idol.” Turns out, Foster was listening.

More Than Just a Voice
But it wasn’t just his voice that set John apart—it was his character offstage too.

“He’s an honest, genuine guy, probably the most respectful person his age I’ve ever met,” said local Ryan Comeaux. “I even have to tell him to stop calling me sir.”

There’s a deep sense of pride in the community that raised him, as though they’ve been in on the secret long before the rest of America caught on. Foster had already lined up local gigs for the year before American Idol came calling. And while it’s unclear whether he’ll still be able to make those dates, nobody would blame him if he can’t. They just want to see him succeed.

A Local Talent Making It Big
As John Foster continues to shine on American Idol, the people of Addis will always remember the boy who turned small-town venues into memorable concert experiences. For them, he’s already a star. And for the rest of the world? They’re just catching up.

Slater Nalley continues to impress on American Idol with his heartfelt performance of John Prine’s “Angel from Montgomery” during the April 28 episode. At just 18 years old, the Atlanta native delivered a stunning rendition that showcased his emotional depth and maturity, well beyond his years.

The theme of the night, “Iconic Idol Moments,” set the stage for Nalley to honor Megan Danielle’s original take on the song. His performance was met with praise from the judges, with Lionel Richie noting, “It’s great that your confidence is coming out,” while Carrie Underwood expressed excitement about Nalley’s unique sound, saying, “You’re so identifiable.”

Before securing a spot in the Top 12, Slater sat down with Billboard to reflect on his Idol journey. He shared how the judges’ support has been instrumental in boosting his confidence, with a special shoutout to Jelly Roll, who offered crucial advice about performance and stage presence. Nalley revealed that trusting his instincts has been a key takeaway, saying, “The coaching is awesome, but I really know myself best and need to lean into that more.”

With each performance, Slater Nalley proves why he’s becoming one of the most compelling contestants this season, blending raw emotion with undeniable talent.

Blake Shelton’s performance of “Kiss My Country Ass” at the Wisconsin State Fair was a high-energy show that perfectly captured his down-to-earth charm and country spirit.

Held on August 11, 2010, as part of his summer tour, the event was one of the highlights of Shelton’s rising country music career. His performance, alongside then-wife Miranda Lambert, was full of energy, drawing cheers from the crowd as the couple shared the stage with undeniable chemistry and powerful vocals.

“Kiss My Country Ass” became an instant fan favorite for its playful celebration of rural pride and small-town values, perfectly matching Shelton’s easygoing personality. The song’s carefree nature had the crowd singing along and embracing the fun of the night.

Blake and Miranda’s playful stage presence made the concert even more memorable, adding an extra layer of excitement to the performance. Fans loved seeing the couple share the spotlight, and their duet once again proved to be a fan favorite. Shelton’s mix of humor and heartfelt tunes continues to keep him at the top of country music, leaving his audiences wanting more each time.