At the 54th Annual Country Music Association (CMA) Awards on November 11, 2020, Chris Stapleton captivated the audience with a stunning performance of his song “Starting Over.” Held at Nashville’s Music City Center, the performance featured Stapleton alongside his wife, Morgane Stapleton, who added beautiful backing vocals that enhanced the emotional depth of the song.

“Starting Over,” the title track from Stapleton’s fourth studio album, was co-written with Mike Henderson, a former member of Stapleton’s band, the SteelDrivers. Released in August 2020, the song resonated deeply with listeners, offering a message of hope and fresh starts—an especially powerful theme in a year marked by global challenges. Critics, like Rolling Stone’s Joseph Hudak, praised the song for its relevance and optimism in the face of adversity.

This CMA Awards performance marked the song’s live debut, and it did not disappoint. With his soulful voice and an intimate stage setup, Stapleton mesmerized the audience, while the chemistry between him and Morgane added an authentic touch that perfectly aligned with the song’s themes of love and perseverance.

Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to several performers having to pull out of the event, Stapleton’s performance was a beacon of resilience. His appearance also served as a preview to his album “Starting Over,” which was released two days later, on November 13, 2020. The album, praised for blending country, blues, and rock influences, further solidified Stapleton’s place as a versatile and soulful artist.

In a year full of uncertainty, Stapleton’s performance was a reminder of the power of music to heal and inspire, offering a much-needed message of hope during tough times. His appearance at the 2020 CMA Awards was truly a standout moment, both musically and emotionally.

On April 30, 2025, rising country star Zach Top made a big impression during his debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, performing his fan-favorite single, “I Never Lie.” The song—featured on his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music—has already earned platinum status and landed a spot in the Top 5 on country radio.

Staying true to his roots, Top brought a fresh yet nostalgic energy to the stage, channeling the sound and spirit of ‘90s country. Backed by his touring band, he delivered a heartfelt and down-to-earth performance that struck a chord with both the live audience and viewers at home.

Fans and critics quickly took to social media to share their love for the performance, calling him “the man saving country music” for his dedication to keeping the traditional sound alive.

Zach Top’s career continues to rise. He was recently named ACM’s New Male Artist of the Year and is scheduled to perform at the 60th ACM Awards on May 8, 2025, sharing the stage with country legends like Alan Jackson, Blake Shelton, and Miranda Lambert.

Rascal Flatts made an unforgettable return to the spotlight at the 2025 ACM Awards, joining forces with the Backstreet Boys for an epic performance that had the crowd on their feet.

After an extended break, the country trio—one of the genre’s biggest names since their 1999 debut—officially parted ways in 2021, following a farewell tour that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the group pursued individual projects, fans were thrilled when Rascal Flatts announced their long-awaited reunion in 2024 to celebrate their 25th anniversary.

Along with their reunion, Rascal Flatts revealed they’ll be dropping a new album, Life Is a Highway: Refueled Duets, on June 6, 2025, which promises to bring fresh takes on their beloved hits.

The Big Performance at the ACMs

At the ACM Awards, Rascal Flatts delivered a show-stopping performance with the Backstreet Boys. The two groups brought fans to their feet as they opened with a new version of “What Hurts the Most.” After a solo performance of “I Dare You” by Rascal Flatts, the Backstreet Boys lit up the stage with their hit “Larger Than Life,” complete with their signature dance moves.

The grand finale brought both groups together for a high-energy rendition of “Life Is a Highway,” creating a perfect mix of country and pop nostalgia that left fans in awe.

What did you think of the performance? The collaboration between these iconic groups was truly one for the books!

The excitement on American Idol Season 23 is at an all-time high as the top 8 contestants compete for a spot in the top 6. With the stakes higher than ever, the tension is palpable, and this week’s eliminations left fans stunned—Platinum Ticket holders Kolbi Jordan and Canaan James Hill were sent home, narrowing the field even further.

One of the standout moments of the night came from Jamal Roberts, who took the stage with a powerful rendition of Carrie Underwood’s hit “Undo It.” Dressed in his signature black attire and cowboy hat, Jamal brought his trademark mix of soul, range, and energy that left both the judges and Underwood herself impressed.

The theme of the night was “Ladies Night,” celebrating iconic women in music, with country legend Miranda Lambert joining as the guest judge. In honor of the 20th anniversary of her hit “Kerosene,” Lambert not only performed but also worked closely with the contestants, helping them connect with their songs on a deeper level. She coached Jamal to keep his own style intact while respecting Underwood’s original, a balance he nailed effortlessly.

Despite a minor slip-up where Jamal missed a couple of lyrics early in the performance, he quickly recovered. Carrie Underwood brushed off the mistake, saying, “Who cares?” and made it clear that she loved Jamal’s interpretation. Afterward, in a lighthearted moment, Underwood even wore his cowboy hat, showing her approval.

Judge Lionel Richie captured it perfectly: “Mesmerizing.” Jamal’s ability to captivate the audience, even in a challenging theme week, proves why he deserves his spot in the top 8. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if he makes it to the top 6 when the next elimination rolls around on Monday night, May 5.

Just six weeks after his first American Idol audition aired, 18-year-old John Foster is no longer the underdog—he’s a real contender. With every heartfelt performance, he’s showing America that he’s not just chasing a dream—he’s living it.

Back when he first stepped in front of the judges, Foster brought his Louisiana charm and a classic Alan Jackson tune, “Don’t Rock the Jukebox.” It was likable, but not quite enough to seal the deal. That’s when Carrie Underwood stepped in, asking him to show more of what he could really do. He answered with a tender cover of Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time,” a moment that turned hesitation into a chance.

“I don’t know if vocally it’s there to make it through many, many rounds of American Idol, but I think you’ve got a nice voice,” Luke Bryan admitted at the time. “It’s a yes. I went from a no to a yes.”

Since then, Foster’s been proving that yes was the right call.

Quietly but confidently, John has worked his way into the hearts of Idol fans—especially country music lovers—with a mix of humility, charm, and old-soul sincerity. And this week, he delivered what might be his most personal performance yet.

Taking the stage with George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart,” John dedicated the song to his girlfriend, Brooklyn, who watched from the audience. He confessed he’d never been able to sing a love song and truly mean it—until now. The result? A simple, heartfelt moment that reminded everyone why they fell in love with country music in the first place.

Carrie Underwood, who picked the song for him, beamed with pride. “That was absolutely perfect,” she said. “It felt real, it felt natural. I think it’s one of your best performances, John.”

Even Luke Bryan—once skeptical—couldn’t hold back his admiration. “I saw a clip of myself from your audition saying I didn’t know if you could sing good enough… and man, you’ve proved me wrong more than anyone. I’m proud of you.”

From a shaky start to standing ovations, John Foster’s Idol journey is shaping up to be one of the season’s most inspiring. He may not have stormed in with flash or flair, but he’s winning fans—and hearts—with something even better: authenticity, growth, and a whole lot of heart.

The 59th Annual ACM Awards on May 16, 2024, in Frisco, Texas, brought together some of country music’s biggest stars for a memorable night of music and tribute. Hosted by the legendary Reba McEntire, the ceremony featured stunning performances from artists like Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, and Jason Aldean, among others.

Reba wowed the crowd with a performance of her new song, “I Can’t,” while Jelly Roll debuted his heartfelt track, “Liar.”

One of the most emotional moments of the night came when Jason Aldean took the stage to honor the late Toby Keith, who passed away just months before the ceremony. Aldean, who had a close friendship with Keith, shared a powerful tribute to the country icon by performing “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” – a song they had last performed together in October 2023.

Jason had previously posted on social media about the loss of his friend, reflecting on their memorable performance in Oklahoma City just months earlier. At the ACMs, with Toby’s family in the front row, Aldean slowed the song down and was joined by a string quartet, adding a layer of emotion to the performance. The large screen behind him displayed photos of Toby throughout his remarkable career.

Toby’s wife, Tricia, and children Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen were visibly moved, wiping away tears as the tribute unfolded. This was the family’s first public appearance together since Toby’s passing, with Tricia making her first appearance alongside her children at this event.

Following the tribute, the Covel family shared a heartfelt message on Toby’s social media accounts, thanking Jason Aldean for the emotional performance and calling it the perfect tribute to Toby Keith.

John Foster, hailing from Louisiana, left fans in awe with his heartfelt performance of Travis Tritt’s “Anymore,” showcasing the talent that has made him a rising star in country music. Armed with nothing more than a microphone, his voice, and a simple stage setup, Foster delivered an intimate, yet powerful rendition that captivated the audience.

Before stepping into the spotlight on American Idol, Foster already demonstrated that his strength lies in his raw talent, not flashy theatrics. A pre-Idol performance recently shared on social media shows him delivering a stripped-back version of “Anymore” with just his guitar and vocals. His effortless control, rich tone, and emotional storytelling proved he was destined for bigger things, even in his early stages.

What sets Foster apart isn’t just his vocal skills—it’s his ability to take every song and make it his own. At just 18, his live rendition of “Anymore” surpassed even the studio version, a rare achievement for any artist, especially one so young. His dynamic vocals and emotional depth left the audience spellbound, highlighting that authenticity and a genuine connection to the music are what truly make an artist stand out.

As a Top 7 finalist on American Idol Season 23, Foster continues to show why he’s a strong contender for the crown. His journey has been marked by consistent performances that range from emotional ballads to heartfelt moments, like serenading his girlfriend on national television. His raw yet polished delivery has made him a fan favorite across the nation.

With the season finale approaching, all eyes are on this small-town Louisiana singer. Will he make it to the final three and bring a hero’s welcome to his hometown of Addis, Louisiana? Fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in his journey, as the competition heats up.

With his soulful voice, undeniable talent, and grounded authenticity, John Foster is proving he’s ready for the big stage. As his American Idol journey continues, there’s no telling how far he’ll go.

At the 60th Annual ACM Awards in Frisco, Texas, Chris and Morgane Stapleton took the stage with nothing more than a microphone, a guitar, and a love song that left the entire room in a rare moment of silence. Their simple, heartfelt performance of “It Takes A Woman” was a standout of the night, captivating the audience with its authenticity and raw emotion.

The couple, married for nearly two decades, didn’t need flashy effects or theatrics. They shared a quiet, intimate connection as Chris sang the ballad he wrote for Morgane — and for every woman who holds a family together with quiet strength. Morgane’s harmonies, soft and soothing, added to the song’s tender atmosphere.

In the front row, Reba McEntire, visibly moved, wiped away tears as she watched the pair. Later, she reflected on the moment: “Sometimes you don’t need fireworks. You just need a man who means what he sings… and a woman who’s stood beside him through it all.”

Their performance wasn’t met with loud applause, but with a standing ovation that was quiet and reverent — a moment that spoke volumes without saying a word. Fellow country stars, including Lainey Wilson and Kelsea Ballerini, were seen mouthing the lyrics, some even wiping their eyes.

Fans on social media were quick to express their emotions:
“Chris and Morgane just reminded us what love really sounds like.”
“That wasn’t a performance. It was a confession.”

In a night full of great music and memorable performances, the Stapletons stood still in their love, moving everyone around them.

When John Foster walked into the American Idol audition room, cowboy hat low and a nervous grin on his face, he probably didn’t expect to be hit with such a harsh dose of reality from country legend Luke Bryan.

“I didn’t know if you could sing good enough,” Bryan said, expressing doubts about the Louisiana native’s potential.

Fast-forward to Top 7 night, and Bryan was eating his words, grinning ear-to-ear.

“Man, no one has ever proved me more wrong,” Bryan admitted, clearly impressed. “And I’m so glad.”

This was one of those rare American Idol moments where a contestant’s journey comes full circle, a testament to hard work and raw emotion. Foster didn’t just coast to this point; he earned it with one of his most heartfelt and polished performances yet: George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart.”

For Judges’ Choice Week, each contestant blindly picked a song chosen by the judges. Foster unknowingly picked Carrie Underwood’s suggestion and turned it into something extraordinary. He stood center stage, calm and composed, saying, “I’ve never been able to sing a love song and mean it. This one’s for Brooklyn.”

With his girlfriend sitting front and center, Foster began the song. But what started as a serenade for her turned into a gift for everyone watching. His deep, rich baritone brought a new depth to the classic, drawing the audience in with every word. It felt real, vulnerable, and sincere.

Carrie Underwood, moved by the performance, leaned forward and said, “That was absolutely perfect. It felt comfortable. It felt genuine.”

That’s been the beauty of John Foster’s rise — he’s not flashy, not trying to be anything he’s not. He’s authentic, and each week, he’s delivered performances that strip away the distractions, focusing purely on the music. From Randy Travis to Bonnie Raitt, he’s taken on country classics without losing his own voice.

And that authenticity is what’s made him a standout. Foster isn’t trying to reinvent country music. He’s simply living it—deep roots, barroom soul, and all.

So when Luke Bryan saw Foster pour his heart into “I Cross My Heart,” all those doubts vanished. The young man who once seemed uncertain now stands as one of the season’s most grounded, powerful contenders.

FRISCO, TEXAS – The 60th Annual ACM Awards kicked off with more than just music — it started with a moment that moved thousands to tears.

Reba McEntire, the legendary “Queen of Country,” walked onto the stage at the Ford Center not with flashy lights or fanfare, but with quiet grace. The room hushed as she stood alone in the spotlight. Before singing a single note, Reba paused, her voice already thick with emotion.

“I sing this song for everyone who’s ever been looked down on, called a country bumpkin, or laughed at just for being real,” she said, her voice trembling.

Then came the unmistakable opening chords of Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee.” Reba’s heartfelt tribute wasn’t just a cover — it was a love letter to every listener who ever felt unseen, unheard, or unappreciated. Her voice, full of grit and grace, wrapped around each lyric like she’d lived it a hundred times over.

As she sang, the crowd was visibly moved. Some clutched their chests. Others wiped away tears. From longtime fans in cowboy hats to new faces in rhinestones, everyone in the arena felt the weight of the moment. Even the younger artists — many of whom grew up in a world where country music had already gone mainstream — stood frozen, taking it all in.

By the final note, the entire arena was on its feet. The ovation wasn’t loud at first — it was reverent, like people trying to applaud through lumped throats. And then it swelled into thunder.

ACM executive producer Ben Winston later shared, “We knew Reba would bring emotion. But what she gave us was the heart and soul of this genre.”

Throughout the rest of the night — from dazzling duets to star-studded surprises — Reba’s performance lingered in the air. Her message was simple but unforgettable:

Country music isn’t just a genre. It’s about real life, real people, and real stories. And in that opening number, Reba told all of ours.