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.

When Blake Shelton stepped onstage in his signature jeans and boots, fans thought they were in for a good ol’ country set. But no one was ready for what came next.

Right in the middle of his gritty anthem, “Stay Country or Die,” the lights dropped, the music paused—and out of the floor rose none other than Beyoncé, dazzling in rhinestones and fringe, her cowboy hat low and her energy sky-high. The stadium lost its mind.

The surprise duet wasn’t just unexpected—it was electric.

Together, Blake and Beyoncé turned “Stay Country or Die” into something completely new. His Southern drawl and her powerhouse vocals collided in the best way, blending country grit with soul, gospel, and pure fire. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment.

“This isn’t just about tailgates and dirt roads,” Beyoncé shouted to the crowd. “It’s about where you’re from. It’s about heart.”

Fans lit up social media within seconds. Hashtags exploded. TikToks went viral. One comment said it all:
“I never thought I’d hear Beyoncé sing about tractors… but now I never want her to stop.”

Of course, not everyone agreed. Some country purists took to forums, calling it “too far” or questioning if it was “still country.” But plenty of fans came to Beyoncé’s defense. One post said,
“If storytelling is the soul of country, then Beyoncé fits right in. She tells hers better than most.”

Backstage, Blake and Beyoncé reportedly hugged and laughed after the set. “That was wild,” Blake told her. She smiled and simply said, “Good.”

And the buzz isn’t over.

Whispers are already flying about a possible collab EP—maybe even titled Southern Royalty—and talks of a 2026 stadium tour that could hit Nashville, Dallas, and Atlanta.

Whether this was a one-time shock or the start of a musical movement, one thing’s for sure: Blake and Beyoncé just proved that country can surprise you—and that it might just sound better with a little soul.

After months of rumors and subtle hints, country stars Riley Green and Ella Langley have officially confirmed what fans have been suspecting for a while — they’re dating. And they didn’t just say it… they showed it.

The confirmation came in the form of a now-viral backstage video that surfaced shortly after the duo wrapped up a high-energy joint performance at a music festival in Georgia. In the grainy clip, Riley is seen pulling Ella close, whispering something into her ear, and then planting a full-on kiss right on her lips — no hesitation, no dodging the cameras, just a sweet and very public moment between two artists clearly done with keeping things under wraps.

The internet wasted no time reacting. Within minutes, fans were flooding social media with reactions like “The kiss says it all!” and “No more hiding — they’re officially a couple!” One fan wrote, “This is the soft launch we’ve been waiting for. Country’s newest power couple is here!”

For months, speculation swirled about Riley and Ella’s off-stage chemistry. Between their undeniable connection during performances and playful exchanges on social media, fans had already started piecing things together. But until now, the pair had remained coy — offering no confirmation beyond their stage presence and some cheeky comments.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect for both stars. Ella Langley is quickly rising in the country world with her bold lyrics and powerhouse vocals, while Riley Green continues to charm fans with his rugged sound and southern swagger. Their duet performances have already won hearts — and now, their real-life connection is giving fans even more to root for.

While neither Riley nor Ella has made an official statement just yet, the video speaks volumes. Sometimes, one kiss is all it takes to say, “Yes, it’s real.”

Whether you’re here for the music, the love story, or both — one thing’s for sure: country music just got a little more romantic.

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Riley Green has been making waves in country music for over a decade now, carving out a spot with hits like “There Was This Girl,” “Half of Me,” and the heartfelt “I Wish Grandpas Never Died.” Over the years, he’s released two studio albums, with his latest, Ain’t My Last Rodeo, dropping in October 2023. But Riley’s success isn’t just solo—he teamed up with rising star Ella Langley on the catchy duet “You Look Like You Love Me,” and together, they wowed a massive crowd of 50,000 fans at a record-breaking UK concert.

Even though country isn’t the biggest genre in the UK, fans showed up in droves to see performers like Riley Green and Morgan Wallen. Selling out 50,000 tickets, this concert became the largest country music event ever held there. On stage, Riley and Ella brought a genuine, heartfelt vibe to their performance, singing about the honesty and love that connects us all.

@rileyduckman

You Look Like You Love Me performed LIVE with @ellalangley at the biggest country show in the history of the United Kingdom. Thank you to everyone that came out to Hyde Park. #ExcuseMe #Countrymusic #outhere #ellalangley #youlooklikeyouloveme

♬ original sound – Riley Green

Fans couldn’t get enough of their chemistry, flooding social media with praise. One fan said, “Riley Green is on top of country music. Can’t argue with that.” Another shared, “You both were incredible. And the fact that so many of us got to experience this together is amazing.”

Riley himself was a bit surprised by how big “You Look Like You Love Me” has become, especially in the UK. Talking about their time on tour, he said, “Ella joined me on tour this year with Tracy Lawrence and me. When you spend that much time together, songs and ideas just come naturally.”

He added, “A friend played that song for me, and I ended up writing the second verse. Honestly, no one expected it to blow up like this.”

With “You Look Like You Love Me” gaining so much love overseas, it looks like this hit is just getting started for both Riley Green and Ella Langley!

In the spring of 1997, country fans didn’t just get a new love song—they got a glimpse into one of country music’s greatest real-life romances. When Tim McGraw and Faith Hill released “It’s Your Love,” it wasn’t just a beautiful duet—it was the start of something magical that would change both their careers and the way country music looked at love.

This heartfelt ballad, written by Stephony Smith, became the lead single from McGraw’s Everywhere album—and it didn’t take long for listeners to fall in love with it. The soft, emotional melody and raw lyrics hit home, but what truly set the song apart was the undeniable chemistry between the two singers. You could feel their connection in every line.

At the time, McGraw and Hill had just made their relationship public. They had met on McGraw’s Spontaneous Combustion Tour in 1996, where Faith was the opening act. She was engaged to someone else, but the spark between her and Tim was impossible to ignore. That tension and excitement found its way into the recording studio—and “It’s Your Love” became their first official duet and the start of a lifelong partnership.

The song shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and stayed there for six weeks straight. Even more impressive, it crossed over into the pop world, landing at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100—a rare achievement for a country track in the ’90s. It racked up award nominations, including a Grammy nod, and eventually went Platinum.

But the real magic of “It’s Your Love” wasn’t just in the numbers. It was in the way the song made people feel. At a time when country music was still mostly about heartbreak and honky-tonks, this duet celebrated vulnerability, deep connection, and lasting love. The music video, showing a glowing Faith Hill pregnant with the couple’s first child, made the story even more real and heartwarming.

Over the years, McGraw and Hill have continued to perform the song together, often saving it for emotional moments during their joint tours. Fans still sing along like it’s 1997 all over again—because the message hasn’t changed. It’s about love that lifts you up, makes you better, and stands the test of time.

Today, as country music continues to grow and evolve, “It’s Your Love” remains one of its most unforgettable moments. It wasn’t just a hit—it was a love story told in perfect harmony. And for anyone who still believes in forever, it’s a song that never gets old.

Country fans got more than they bargained for at this year’s CMA Fest when Dylan Marlowe and Ella Langley lit up Nissan Stadium with their stunning duet, “You Look Like You Love Me.” It wasn’t just a performance—it was a full-on moment. The kind that gives you goosebumps and makes 50,000 people forget they’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder in the Tennessee heat.

From the second Dylan walked out to join Ella on stage, the crowd knew something special was about to unfold. The opening chords hit, the lights glowed like fireflies, and suddenly it felt like the entire stadium was holding its breath. Ella’s smoky, soulful vocals wrapped perfectly around Dylan’s raw Southern grit, creating a sound that felt both timeless and fresh.

Wearing matching black and denim with a cool country edge, the two looked just as in sync as they sounded. As they leaned into the chorus, you could feel the connection—not just between the artists, but between them and every person in the crowd. There weren’t any flashy tricks, just two voices telling a story, and fans were hanging on every word.

When the final note faded, the stadium erupted. Phones lit up the night sky, the cheers were deafening, and for a second, it felt like all of Nashville was singing right along with them.

Social media caught fire almost instantly. “They just stole the whole weekend,” one fan posted. “Country music’s next big duo?” another tweeted. YouTube clips of the performance started making the rounds before the duo even left the stage, with comments like, “I’m not crying, you’re crying,” and “These two need to make a full album, ASAP.”

This spotlight moment couldn’t have come at a better time. Ella Langley is gearing up to drop her debut album, turning heads with her bold lyrics and powerhouse voice. Dylan Marlowe, known for songs that feel straight from the heart, is quickly rising as one of country’s most promising new voices. Together, they gave fans a performance that felt bigger than either one of them—a reminder of why people fall in love with country music in the first place.

As the sun set on CMA Fest, one thing was clear: “You Look Like You Love Me” wasn’t just a song. It was a statement. Dylan Marlowe and Ella Langley aren’t just “ones to watch” anymore—they’ve officially arrived, and country fans can’t wait to see what they do next.

From the moment John Foster began singing “She Used to Be Mine,” you could feel the shift in the room. No flashy intro. No theatrics. Just a soft, aching voice that immediately pulled everyone in.

With every word, Foster delivered the kind of performance that doesn’t need to raise its voice to be heard. His tone—gentle, slightly raspy, and full of quiet heartbreak—made it feel less like a performance and more like a private confession.

As he reached the first chorus, his voice swelled—not in volume, but in emotion. It was subtle and controlled, yet deeply stirring. You could tell he wasn’t just singing the lyrics—he was feeling them. And in doing so, he made the audience feel them too.

His face remained calm, but his voice carried the weight of every line. Every pause was intentional. Every breath was felt. There was no need for dramatic gestures—the emotion lived entirely in the sound.

Midway through the song, as the lyrics shifted to themes of loss and longing, his voice wavered ever so slightly—like he was trying not to cry. And somehow, that made the moment even more powerful.

There were no background tricks or vocal effects. What made the performance so moving was its honesty. Foster didn’t try to wow the audience with big notes—he moved them with his vulnerability.

Even the softest transitions and key changes were full of purpose. He wasn’t showing off technical skills—he was guiding us through the emotional journey of the song, step by step.

Then came the final note. Foster didn’t belt it out. He brought his voice down to a whisper—barely audible, yet completely unforgettable. It didn’t feel like an ending. It felt like a memory still hanging in the air.

That’s what makes John Foster’s performance so special. It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t flashy. But it was unforgettable—because it was real.

A Tribute That Came from the Heart
Earlier in the show, Foster took another moment to honor someone close to his journey—Carrie Underwood. He covered her duet with Randy Travis, “I Told You So,” as a thank-you for her unwavering support throughout the competition.

This was his first time performing without his guitar, but he stood tall, delivering a heartfelt rendition full of respect and admiration. “I’m blushing!” Underwood said after his performance. “You keep pushing yourself, trying new things—and it’s been such a joy to watch you grow. I’ll speak for Randy Travis here—I think he would’ve loved it.”

The Top 10 Are In
With the votes tallied, the top 10 contestants moving on were announced (in no particular order):
John Foster, Josh King, Jamal Roberts, Mattie Pruitt, Thunderstorm Artis, Slater Nalley, Gabby Samone, Canaan James Hill, Kolbi Jordan, and Breanna Nix.

Sadly, Che and Filo were eliminated this round. But for the top 10, the journey continues as they take the stage again on Sunday, May 4.

@qtmandyyy

No worries…its just @officialjohnfoster singing @Thenashvillepalace with James Carothers and fiddle player, Andy Varner. #johnfoster #johnfostermusic #musicbyjohnfoster #thenashvillepalace #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #nashville #musiccity #wedontownrightstothismusic #rawvideo #raw #brooksanddunn @Ronnie Dunn

♬ original sound – Amanda

John Foster may have finished as the runner-up on American Idol Season 23, but his story is just getting started — and it’s taking a turn no one saw coming.

In a jaw-dropping move that’s got the entire country music scene buzzing, legendary duo Brooks & Dunn have offered Foster a record deal that could end up being more career-defining than winning the whole show.

A Legendary Endorsement
Just days after the Idol finale aired, Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks made it clear they weren’t just casual fans — they’ve been watching Foster closely, and they believe in his future. The offer? A deal with Arista Nashville, the powerhouse label behind stars like Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, and Brooks & Dunn themselves.

“He’s got that spark we haven’t seen in a while,” Kix Brooks said. “There’s a little Travis Tritt in there, a little Randy Travis — but he’s got his own voice, and we want to help him bring it to life.”

This isn’t just a signing — it’s a personal co-sign from two of country’s biggest names, and a golden ticket to a future filled with possibility.

From Porch Songs to National Stage
At just 22, John Foster’s journey started far from the spotlight. Raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, he grew up singing gospel in church and strumming his guitar on his grandparents’ front porch. That southern soul shaped his sound — honest, gritty, and rooted in tradition.

Week after week on American Idol, he earned fans with his raw vocals and heartfelt performances. His original song “Back Road Revival” soared to No. 2 on the iTunes Country Chart overnight — proof that people weren’t just watching, they were listening.

The Setback That Sparked a Comeback
After the Idol finale, things took an unexpected turn. Foster was hospitalized for vocal cord strain and exhaustion — the pressure of the competition had taken its toll.

“He was crushed,” a family member shared. “He felt like he let people down.”

Then, the phone rang.

It was Brooks & Dunn — with an offer that didn’t just change the course of his career, but pulled him out of the emotional fog.

“It gave him hope,” the source added. “He said, ‘If Brooks & Dunn believe in me, maybe I’m not done yet.’”

What’s Next for John Foster?
Foster is expected to officially sign with Arista Nashville by summer 2025, and sources say recording sessions in Nashville are already in the works. Even better? Brooks & Dunn are personally helping him shape his debut sound — and there’s talk of a possible duet on his first EP, expected in early 2026.

A songwriting dream team is reportedly being assembled, and Foster is ready to dive into the studio with a renewed sense of purpose.

A New Chapter Begins
He may not have taken home the Idol crown, but John Foster walked away with something just as valuable: the trust of two country music legends, a major-label opportunity, and a growing fanbase cheering him on.

This isn’t the end of the road — it’s the start of something big. And if this first chapter is any sign, John Foster’s story is going to be one worth following.

Long before he stole hearts on American Idol Season 23, 18-year-old John Foster was already turning heads with his powerhouse voice and undeniable stage presence. One local performance, in particular, showed exactly why he was destined for stardom: a moving tribute to Toby Keith’s Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue that had the crowd hanging on every word.

A Voice You Can’t Ignore
With just a guitar in hand and a voice full of soul, Foster took the stage and immediately captured the room. His version of Toby Keith’s iconic anthem didn’t just echo patriotism—it radiated raw emotion and heartfelt respect. The way he delivered each line made it clear: this wasn’t just a cover. It was a statement.

🎸 Even before Idol, John had the kind of voice that stops you in your tracks—gritty, real, and straight from the heart.

From the first note to the final strum, he had the audience completely dialed in. His performance carried the weight of experience far beyond his years, all while honoring the legacy of the song and giving it a fresh, personal twist.

Born and Raised on Country Classics
Growing up in Addis, Louisiana, Foster was raised on the legends—George Strait, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson. Those deep country roots run through every note he sings. It’s not just music to him—it’s a way of life.

Before American Idol, Foster was already sharing stages with well-known names like The Dukes of Hazzard’s John Schneider, as well as country artists Doug Stone and Don Rich. Even then, fans were noticing: this kid has something special.

🎶 His voice feels like home—timeless, Southern, and full of heart.

Watch the Performance That Started It All
(If the TikTok link isn’t working, don’t worry—just scroll down to catch the full version of his powerful tribute below.)

Foster’s performance of Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue quickly became a defining moment in his early journey. It showcased not just his vocal strength, but his deep emotional connection to the music—and to the message behind it.

This Is Only the Beginning
Today, John Foster is earning high praise from Idol judges and fans across the country. But for those who saw him back then, it’s no surprise. That early Toby Keith tribute wasn’t just a song—it was a preview of the country star he was always meant to be.

Because what sets John Foster apart isn’t just his voice—it’s his heart. And that’s something you can’t teach.

@qtmandyyy

Tribute to Toby Keith! Just wait until the end. 😳 Wow! #johnfoster #johnfostermusic #musicbyjohnfoster #country #nashvillerecordingartist #godblesstheusa #redwhiteandblue #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fypシ゚viral #country #musician #singersongwriter #wedontowntherightstothismusic

♬ original sound – Amanda