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.

@chanobangz

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

♬ i was only temporary – my head is empty

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:

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“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.

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“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.

American Idol Season 23 wrapped up in grand style on Sunday, May 18, with an unforgettable finale packed with star power, surprise performances, and one last emotional ride. While Jamal Roberts ultimately took home the title, the night was full of standout moments — including a heartfelt duet between country star Luke Bryan and runner-up John Foster.

Before teaming up with Foster, Bryan hit the stage solo to perform his latest single, “Country Song Came On.” The crowd swayed along, and fellow judge Carrie Underwood could be seen grooving in her seat. As the final notes played, Bryan had one more surprise in store.

“Y’all give it up for John Foster!” Bryan announced with a grin as the 18-year-old Louisiana native stepped on stage. Together, they performed Randy Travis’ beloved 1988 hit, “Deeper Than the Holler.” Trading verses and harmonizing on the chorus, the two had the audience singing along to every word. The performance was a fitting tribute to Foster’s love for classic country — and a special nod to one of his musical heroes.

“John Foster, y’all!” Bryan said proudly after they wrapped up, clearly impressed by the young singer’s poise and talent.

Though Foster finished in second place, his journey on Idol has been nothing short of remarkable. After the show, he took to social media to share his heartfelt thanks:

“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends,” 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.”

Foster, known for his warm Southern charm and smooth vocals, made a lasting impression on fans and judges alike. Throughout the season, he wowed audiences with performances of timeless hits like “Believe” by Brooks & Dunn, “I Told You So” by Randy Travis, and George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart.”

Along the way, Foster also had to clear up a few online rumors. In a social media post earlier in the season, he addressed false claims about his age, hometown, and even a rumored connection to country legend Dwight Yoakam. “I’m just 18 years old and from Addis, Louisiana,” he clarified, “and I haven’t signed with any record label… yet.”

Now that the Idol stage has gone quiet, fans are eager to see what’s next for John Foster. With his undeniable talent, humble heart, and a fan base that’s growing by the minute, one thing’s for sure — this is just the beginning of his story.

After months of music, emotion, and unforgettable performances, American Idol Season 23 came to an epic close on May 18, 2025. With over 26 million votes cast during the live three-hour finale, fans made sure this was a finale for the record books.

The final three — Jamal Roberts, John Foster, and Breanna Nix — each gave it their all one last time. But it was 27-year-old physical education teacher Jamal Roberts, from Meridian, Mississippi, who stole America’s heart and walked away as the newest American Idol.

“HOWWWW is this even real?!?!” – Jamal’s Emotional Reaction

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Right after the win, Jamal took to social media, clearly overwhelmed by the moment:

“HOWWWW is this even real?!?! 😭😭😭 I never could’ve imagined this when I first stepped on that stage… I’m your next American Idol. 🙏🏾🎤”

In a follow-up post, he shared what the victory means to him — especially as a father of three girls:

“To be a role model for my girls, my city, and anybody chasing something bigger — this means everything. Now I get to do what I love, with the best in the game, and share my voice with the world.”

He also posted a photo of himself singing after his win, adding:

“Still trying to process this… God is so good. 🙏🏾 I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol.”

Jamal dedicated the win to his daughters — Harmoni (6), Lyrik (4), and newborn Gianna — saying he hopes they’ll grow up knowing that “with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible.”

John Foster & Breanna Nix Share Gracious Goodbyes

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Runner-up John Foster, the 18-year-old country singer from Louisiana State University, also shared a heartfelt message after the finale:

“Man, what a true blessing to share this Idol stage with so many incredible heroes, both new faces and legends… I’m beyond thankful, and I can’t wait to keep making music for y’all as long as the good Lord lets me.”

Foster’s original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her”, a touching tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn, left the audience in tears — a powerful final performance from a fan favorite.

Third-place finalist Breanna Nix, a 25-year-old mom from Texas, may not have taken the title, but she certainly won hearts. After singing with Brandon Lake during the finale, she posted:

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“I don’t even know where to begin… Nix Nation – thank you from the bottom of my heart to every single one of you who’s supported me… This is just the beginning. You’ve changed my life. 💙 #NixNation”

Judges Celebrate with Joy, Champagne, and Praise
Judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie celebrated right alongside the finalists, sharing behind-the-scenes moments after the show.

“We just wrapped!” Luke shouted, holding champagne, as Lionel nodded with a huge smile.
“What an amazing night,” Lionel added.

Luke turned to Jamal during the broadcast and told him:

“You’re one of the most amazing people I’ve seen on this show.”

Carrie, in her first season as judge, shared a selfie with Jamal, writing:

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“Congratulations to the newest winner of @americanidol!!! I’m so proud of @officialjamalroberts… He’s going to do great things!”

What’s Next?
Jamal Roberts now steps into a brand new chapter — with a record deal in hand and a growing fanbase behind him. But more than that, he represents resilience, family, and the power of dreaming big.

John Foster heads home to Louisiana with a loyal following and plenty of country music buzz. And Breanna Nix’s journey is just getting started — fans are already eager for more.

Together, this trio made American Idol Season 23 one of the most heartfelt and inspiring seasons ever.

When Jelly Roll and Jamal Roberts hit the American Idol stage during Sunday night’s finale, they had no idea Roberts was just an hour away from being named the Season 23 champion. But you’d never know it from their performance—it was electric.

As they wrapped up their powerful duet, Jelly Roll, this season’s artist-in-residence, bowed down playfully to Roberts. It was a lighthearted yet meaningful gesture that spoke volumes about their mutual respect—and fans loved it.

A Star-Packed Night to Remember
The finale wasn’t short on big names and surprises. Roberts and Jelly Roll delivered a heartfelt medley of “Liar” and “Unpretty,” both from Jelly Roll’s 2024 album Beautifully Broken. The emotional performance became one of the evening’s standout moments.

Jelly Roll has been a steady mentor for Roberts since Hollywood Week, helping shape his journey and confidence along the way. That mentorship was on full display as Roberts commanded the stage with passion and purpose.

More Memorable Collaborations
Roberts wasn’t the only finalist with a high-profile duet. Breanna Nix teamed up with Brandon Lake for “Daddy’s DNA,” and John Foster joined forces with Luke Bryan on a performance of “Deeper Than the Holler.” Each duet brought something special to the show, but in the end, it was Roberts who stole the spotlight.

Roberts’ Road to Victory
Throughout the night, Roberts proved why he deserved the title with three show-stopping solo performances:

“First Time” by TEEKS

“Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)” by The Temptations

“Heal” by Tom Odell

Those powerful performances, paired with his moving duet, helped secure his win in what host Ryan Seacrest called the most-voted finale since Idol moved to ABC in 2018. Over 26 million votes were cast—more than double last season’s total.

With his blend of soul, heart, and grit, Jamal Roberts didn’t just win American Idol—he won the hearts of fans across the country.

Country music fans were in for a once-in-a-lifetime treat when Forever Country was released—a powerful musical moment that brought together country’s biggest legends and brightest stars in celebration of the Country Music Association’s 50th anniversary.

This unforgettable collaboration blended three beloved classics—Hank Williams Sr.’s “Hey, Good Lookin’,” John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You”—into one stunning tribute. The result? A moving celebration of country music’s roots, heart, and future.

With over 30 artists from across generations—including legends like Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Reba McEntire, along with modern stars like Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, and Blake Shelton—Forever Country became more than just a music video. It was a moment of unity, nostalgia, and pride for the country music community.

Set against scenic backdrops that highlight the beauty of the American countryside—rolling hills, golden sunsets, and open roads—the video beautifully mirrors the emotional richness of the genre itself. Each artist’s performance was woven together to reflect the deep connection between country music’s past and present.

The release quickly became a viral sensation. Fans and critics alike praised it for its heartfelt message, cinematic production, and pitch-perfect blend of voices. The tribute climbed the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned several award nominations, including nods from the CMA Awards and the Grammys.

Forever Country wasn’t just a tribute—it was a reminder of why country music continues to endure and inspire. It honored the storytellers, the dreamers, and the voices that built a legacy—and welcomed the next generation to carry it forward.

Carrie Underwood’s appearance at the recent presidential inauguration took many by surprise — not just because of her stunning performance, but because the country superstar has long steered clear of political events. Known for keeping her personal views private, Carrie has built her career on her music, not on taking sides.

Back in a 2019 interview with The Guardian, Carrie explained why she avoids politics in the public eye.
“I try to stay far out of politics if possible, at least in public, because nobody wins,” she said. “It’s crazy. Everybody tries to sum everything up and put a bow on it, like it’s black and white. And it’s not like that.”

So when news broke that she would be performing at the inauguration, fans had mixed reactions — some applauded the move, others criticized it. Carrie addressed the response head-on with a thoughtful statement:

“I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event,” she said. “I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”

And then came the moment that stole the show. Dressed in a soft gray, sleeveless gown, Carrie stood before the Capitol and — after some apparent technical issues — delivered a breathtaking a cappella version of “America the Beautiful.” The crowd, thousands strong, joined in softly, creating a shared moment of reflection and unity.

Despite ongoing backlash from critics — especially some fans who disagreed with her decision to perform — many others praised Carrie for showing grace under pressure. Even those who weren’t thrilled with her presence admitted: her performance was undeniably beautiful.

In the end, Carrie Underwood did what she’s always done best — let her voice speak louder than the noise.

At just 18 years old, John Foster started his American Idol journey with quiet determination — and a lot to prove. His initial audition left judge Luke Bryan unsure if the small-town teen from Addis, Louisiana, had what it took to go the distance. But fast forward to the Top 8, and Foster had done more than just hold his own — he delivered a heart-melting performance of George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart” that made Luke eat his words.

“I saw a clip of me doubting you back then,” Luke admitted. “And no one’s ever proved me more wrong. I’m so proud of you.”

That moment captured what fans had been watching all season: steady, authentic growth. John Foster wasn’t chasing a spotlight — he was earning it, one heartfelt performance at a time.

His breakthrough came with a song straight from the heart. “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” an original tribute to two friends lost in a tragic New Year’s Eve crash, struck a powerful chord with fans and judges alike. Luke called it the performance that erased all doubt.

Judge Carrie Underwood quickly became Foster’s biggest supporter, often praising his sincerity and humility. “He’s so fresh-faced and sweet — and I don’t think he even realizes how good he really is,” she told PEOPLE. “He’s probably grown more than anyone this season.”

That growth — along with his deep country roots — carried Foster into the finale.

A Country Finale Fit for a Rising Star

True to his fans and his genre, John doubled down on what brought him to the final round: country music with heart. He chose three classic songs to cap off his Idol journey: Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and a finale duet with Luke Bryan on Randy Travis’s “Deeper Than The Holler.”

First up, the patriotic powerhouse. John kicked things off with “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and dedicated the song to the people who supported him every step of the way.

“What better song to sing than one that represents America?” John said. “This one’s for my people.”

The crowd was on their feet — and so were the judges.

Lionel Richie couldn’t contain his excitement: “That’s how you do it, John. You nailed it.”

Carrie added, “It felt like a John Foster concert tonight. You pulled out all the stops.”

Luke agreed, highlighting John’s growth in confidence and control. “Your voice, your stage presence — it’s been a privilege to watch.”

A Hometown Tribute That Hit Home

Later, after a touching hometown visit montage, John returned to the stage for his second solo song: a soul-stirring take on “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” With each note, it was clear — this wasn’t just a cover; it was a love letter to his roots.

Once again, the judges applauded the performance and urged fans to vote. And vote they did — Ryan Seacrest announced that John had secured a spot in the Top 2.

Whether or not he took the title, one thing was clear: John Foster’s story — and his music — had already found a place in America’s heart.

Jamal Roberts’ American Idol journey began with boldness, soul—and a little Rick James.

From his very first audition, Jamal captured the judges’ attention with a fiery, passionate take on “Mary Jane.” The 27-year-old P.E. teacher and devoted father of three brought such charisma to the stage that Lionel Richie couldn’t help but dance in his seat. After Jamal’s final note, Lionel leaned in with a smile and said:

“Man, you’ve got some stuff in there—and by the end, you were letting it come out. You’ve got the voice, and you know how to tell a story. That’s priceless.”

All three judges—Lionel, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood—sent him straight to Hollywood with a Golden Ticket.

What made the moment even sweeter? Jamal had auditioned twice before and didn’t make it. But this time, everything changed.

A Voice That Grew Stronger Week by Week
As the competition heated up, Jamal continued to prove himself with one powerhouse performance after another. He brought the crowd to their feet with everything from Carrie Underwood’s “Undo It” to “Go the Distance” from Hercules. But one song in particular became a defining moment for him: Jelly Roll’s emotional anthem “Liar.”

When Jamal first performed “Liar” during the Top 24 round in Hawaii, he sang it right in front of Jelly Roll himself—who had tears in his eyes by the end. That heartfelt performance cemented Jamal as a fan favorite and earned him a place in the Top 5.

From Top 5 to Top 3 — And a Full-Circle Finale
By the time the May 12 Disney Night episode aired, Jamal had America hooked. His soulful renditions of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Beauty and the Beast” helped him clinch a spot in the Top 3 alongside Breanna Nix and John Foster.

Then came the grand finale on May 18—and with it, the moment Jamal’s Idol story came full circle.

Sharing the stage with Jelly Roll himself, Jamal performed an unforgettable duet. They opened with a moving snippet of “Unpretty” before launching into a soaring version of “Liar”—the very song that first bonded them. For fans who had followed Jamal from day one, it was the perfect full-circle moment.

A Star Is Born
Whether it was his gritty vocals, emotional depth, or sheer perseverance, Jamal Roberts proved time and again that he’s more than just a contestant—he’s a true artist. And sharing the stage with Jelly Roll in the finale? That was the icing on the cake.

Watch Jamal and Jelly Roll’s unforgettable duet below—and witness a moment that felt more like a passing of the torch than a performance.

Jamal didn’t just make it to the end. He made his mark. And something tells us this is only the beginning.