Before John Foster became a standout on American Idol, his hometown performances were already capturing hearts. At one memorable concert, the Louisiana native took the stage with just his acoustic guitar, delivering a simple yet deeply emotional rendition of Willie Nelson’s classic “Always on My Mind.”
Though the performance was low-key, it left a lasting impression. With his soulful voice and unmistakable country twang, Foster embodied the emotion of the song, drawing comparisons to country legends and earning a buzz that hinted at the star he was becoming long before Idol.
That night, locals got a glimpse of the raw talent that would soon captivate America.
Now, as he makes his way into the Top 7 of American Idol’s 23rd season, Foster continues to impress with his love for traditional country and his authenticity. He’s ready for what’s next: Disney Night. Set at the Disneyland Resort, this two-night event will showcase classic Disney hits, with guidance from Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creative genius behind Hamilton and Encanto.
For Foster, it’s another chapter in his journey—from small-town stages to the bright lights of Hollywood. His story proves that real country storytelling still resonates, and it’s only just getting started.
Eighteen-year-old John Foster has quickly become a fan favorite on American Idol Season 23, making it to the Top 10. But for those from his hometown of Addis, Louisiana, there’s much more to this rising country star than what you see on TV.
The Story Behind the Name
Though audiences know him as John Foster, his full name is John Foster Benoit. He made the decision to drop his last name for his music career, though he’s always stayed connected to his roots. During his audition, Foster honored his family by bringing Cajun specialties from his family’s business, Benoit’s Country Meat Block, to the judges. According to longtime family friend Rick Bourgoyne, “He’s a Benoit, and this is Benoit’s. His middle name is Foster, just like his father and grandfather. He’s the third.”
Balancing Music and Medicine
Even as his music career takes off, Foster hasn’t forgotten his dream of becoming a doctor. He’s still enrolled at Louisiana State University, majoring in biology while competing on American Idol. His passion for helping others extends beyond the classroom; on May 2, he launched a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, raising nearly $3,500 in just a day—well past his goal of $500.
“I will always be involved in fighting for a cure, whether I pursue medicine or music full-time,” Foster shared.
Family, Faith, and Small-Town Support
Foster’s close-knit family remains his foundation. Thirty-one of his relatives are traveling to Los Angeles to support him as the competition heats up. His grandmother, Verbie Benoit, shared, “He loves his family, his town, and he just wants to make people proud.” His humility and grounded values have never wavered, even with all the attention.
Setting the Record Straight
As his popularity grows, so have the rumors. Foster took to Facebook on April 30 to clear up a few misconceptions:
He’s 18, not 24.
He’s from Addis, Louisiana, not Benton, Kentucky.
He’s not related to Dwight Yoakam and isn’t signed to any record label, including Sugar Hill Records.
He encouraged fans to follow his verified page for the most accurate updates, reminding everyone that not everything online is true.
As the American Idol season progresses, Foster continues to shine with performances full of emotion and authenticity. Whether he’s performing a heartfelt tribute to his girlfriend, Brooklyn, or celebrating his Top 8 milestone, Foster remains deeply connected to his roots, his faith, and the support of his community.
May 5, 2025 – Ella Langley just wrapped her first-ever sold-out headlining tour, and it’s safe to say she’s officially made her mark in country music. From coast to coast, fans packed venues to catch a glimpse of one of the genre’s most exciting new voices—and she didn’t disappoint.
With each stop, Langley delivered a high-energy show packed with raw emotion, powerhouse vocals, and the kind of crowd connection you don’t see every day. Whether she was belting out fan favorites or slowing things down with a heartfelt ballad, every song hit home with fans who knew every word.
But this wasn’t just a series of concerts—it felt more like a celebration of how far Langley has come. She’s gone from playing small shows to commanding big stages with the kind of confidence that only comes from passion and hard work. And her fans? They showed up in full force, singing, cheering, and proving that they’re along for the ride.
A highlight of the tour was her emotional performance of “You Look Like You Love Me,” a song that’s become a fan-favorite anthem. The crowd lit up with emotion, some even moved to tears, as Langley poured her heart into every lyric. It was a moment that captured exactly why she’s resonating so deeply with audiences everywhere.
Social media lit up with photos and videos from every stop—fans couldn’t stop sharing their favorite memories from the tour. The excitement around Langley isn’t just about her voice—it’s her honesty, her down-to-earth vibe, and the way she makes every show feel personal.
Ella Langley’s debut tour was more than a success—it was a statement. She’s not just another rising star; she’s an artist with something to say and the talent to back it up. And if this tour is any sign of what’s ahead, we’re just getting started.
Country music better make room—Ella Langley is here to stay.
At the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, the night was filled with stars and celebration, but it was Alan Jackson who delivered the most unforgettable moment. With tears in his eyes and emotion in his voice, Jackson took the stage to sing “Remember When”—a deeply personal ballad that left the Ford Center silent in awe.
There were no flashy lights, no special effects—just soft blue lighting, a touching video montage, and the raw emotion of a legend singing from the heart. As soon as Jackson began, the crowd stood in unison, and by the time the last note echoed through the venue, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
This wasn’t just another performance. It was a goodbye.
With ongoing health challenges prompting Jackson to retire from touring, this could very well have been his final ACM performance. But even in his last moments in the spotlight, Jackson proved why he’s been a cornerstone of country music for nearly four decades. Instead of leaning on one of his many hits like “Chattahoochee” or “Gone Country,” he chose “Remember When”—a 2003 ballad that reflects on love, life, and the simple moments that shape us.
The song perfectly captured the spirit of the evening—a tribute to 60 years of country music. Fittingly, Jackson was also presented with the ACM Lifetime Achievement Award, a well-deserved recognition of a career that has helped shape the genre.
Released as part of Greatest Hits Volume II, “Remember When” has always been one of Jackson’s most cherished songs. Written about his relationship with his wife, Denise, and their life together, the track has only become more meaningful over time—especially now, as Jackson steps away from the limelight.
With nothing but a microphone, his powerful voice, and a lifetime of memories, Jackson created a moment that will live on in country music history—one that was honest, heartfelt, and timeless.
As fans honor the 60th ACMs, they also prepare to say farewell to one of the genre’s greatest voices. But with performances like this, Alan Jackson’s legacy is one that will never be forgotten.
At just 18, John Foster has a story that goes beyond the spotlight, filled with personal loss, deep faith, and a powerful sense of purpose. In an emotional interview with The Permanent Rain Press, the American Idol contestant opened up about the tragic loss of two close friends, Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, in a car accident in 2022. Their passing became the catalyst for his heart-wrenching original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” a song born from grief but fueled by love.
Foster didn’t start singing publicly until he was 15, and it wasn’t until tragedy struck that music truly became personal for him. Standing by the bayou, overwhelmed with sadness, he poured his heart into lyrics that captured the raw, unfiltered emotions of loss. This moment, standing there with the water stretching out before him, marked the turning point in his life where he found his true voice and began to connect with others through his music.
Beyond his musical talent, Foster also dreams of becoming an oncologist. Growing up in a community with a high cancer rate, he’s driven by a desire to help others heal physically. “God heals spiritually, but he gave people the ability to heal physically. I want to be one of them,” he shares with humility and conviction. This desire to make a difference in people’s lives shines through in every step he takes, both on and off the stage.
When he took the Idol stage to perform “Something To Talk About,” his soulful, sincere voice captured the hearts of the judges and audience. Carrie Underwood even called him a “cutie patootie” during his audition, a compliment Foster didn’t hear until the episode aired, showing just how genuine and grounded he remains despite the fame.
Foster isn’t in this for the spotlight; he’s in it to share stories that matter. Each performance is a tribute to those he’s lost, to the family and community that raised him, and to the faith that keeps him going. In a world that often values trends over substance, John Foster stands as a reminder that authenticity and heart will always hold power.
With every song, Foster isn’t just singing for himself; he’s singing for everyone and everything that’s shaped him along the way. His journey is just beginning, and it’s clear that whatever the future holds, he’s ready to make a difference with his music and his message.
Country music’s biggest celebration is just around the corner! On Thursday, May 8th, stars will shine bright at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, as the Academy of Country Music marks its 60th annual awards show.
Hosting the night is none other than country legend Reba McEntire—who’s earned an impressive 16 ACM Awards herself. She’ll guide us through a night packed with unforgettable performances, once-in-a-lifetime collaborations, and a few surprises we won’t see coming.
And speaking of surprises…
Ella Langley & Riley Green Score a Surprise ACM Win
Over the weekend at Country Thunder in Tampa, Ella Langley and Riley Green had no idea what was coming. While on stage performing their hit duet, “You Look Like You Love Me,” a video message from Reba suddenly appeared on the big screen.
“Sorry to interrupt,” Reba said with a smile, “but I’ve got some exciting news!” She then announced that the pair had just won the ACM Award for Visual Media of the Year—sending the crowd (and the artists) into full celebration mode.
This marks Ella Langley’s second ACM win, and the ceremony hasn’t even begun! Leading all nominees with a total of eight nods, the 26-year-old rising star was also named New Female Artist of the Year just days before.
Their hit duet, released in June 2024, quickly climbed the charts, landing Ella her first and Riley his second No. 1 on Country Airplay. The wild-west-themed music video, which dropped in August, added even more excitement—featuring appearances by country great Jamey Johnson and Riley’s corgi, Carl.
“You Look Like You Love Me” is still in the running for three more major awards: Song of the Year, Single of the Year, and Musical Event of the Year. Could more wins be on the way?
John Foster brought the energy and charm to Sunday night’s (May 4) American Idol Top 8 live show with a standout performance of Bonnie Raitt’s “Something to Talk About.” It was a defining moment in Season 23—and a big leap forward for the rising country star.
The night’s theme, Ladies’ Night, celebrated legendary female artists, and 18-year-old Foster kicked things off in style. Before hitting the stage, he met with this week’s mentor, country icon Miranda Lambert. But their mentoring session came with a fun twist—John admitted she was his childhood crush, sparking a laugh, a blush, and a sweet exchange that had fans smiling.
Miranda encouraged John to bring out the “sass” in the bluesy hit and really own the moment. And from the first note, he delivered. With high energy, natural stage presence, and a big dose of confidence, Foster had the crowd clapping along and the judges cheering.
Carrie Underwood praised his journey, saying, “He’s the one we’ve watched grow the most.” Luke Bryan added, “Your charisma meter is peaking off the charts.”
But it wasn’t just about personality—his vocals stood tall, too. With a gritty, soulful delivery and a modern country twist, Foster gave the 1991 classic new life. The original, written by Shirley Eikhard and made famous by Bonnie Raitt, earned a Grammy for its powerhouse vocals and flirty groove—perfectly suited for Foster’s style.
With America voting live during the coast-to-coast broadcast, John’s performance clearly made an impact. As Ryan Seacrest kept viewers on edge with the results, one thing was clear—John Foster had just given everyone something to talk about.
John Foster isn’t just another American Idol contestant—he’s on a mission to make a difference through both music and medicine. A Louisiana native and biology student at LSU, John dreams of becoming a “singing oncologist,” blending his love for music with a passion for helping those fighting cancer. For him, it’s always been about more than just the spotlight.
From his very first audition, John stood out—not just for his voice, but for his sincerity and Southern charm. His heartfelt cover of a Conway Twitty classic made a lasting impression. While Luke Bryan was initially unsure, it didn’t take long for John’s honest spirit to win him over and earn him a Golden Ticket to Hollywood.
As the competition heated up, John brought a taste of home to the stage in Hawaii, performing a crowd-pleasing version of “Callin’ Baton Rouge.” The audience was on their feet, the judges were dancing, and John proved he was more than a ballad singer—he was a true entertainer.
But it was his Top 20 performance that truly stopped hearts.
That night, John stepped into the spotlight with an original song he wrote himself: “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” The emotional ballad was a tribute to two close friends, Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, who tragically passed away in a car crash on New Year’s Eve. With tear-filled eyes and a trembling voice, John poured every ounce of his grief and love into the performance.
The lyrics—raw and personal—felt like pages from his journal:
“Each tear that falls on my guitar / Is a hug from afar / Lord, won’t you tell that angel I love her?”
By the end of the song, he softly whispered, “I love you, Maggie.” Judge Carrie Underwood, visibly touched, asked who the song was for. John quietly pointed to the audience, where Maggie and Caroline’s families were watching, holding each other close in a deeply emotional moment.
Viewers were moved to tears. Social media lit up with support and admiration for John’s vulnerability and strength. For many, the performance wasn’t just memorable—it was healing.
In a heartfelt message shared afterward, John wrote:
“I wrote this for the two sweet angels that were tragically taken from us on New Year’s Eve. Maggie was one of my best friends and Caroline was a good friend I regret not knowing even more. Until we meet again.”
John Foster’s Idol journey is clearly about more than winning a competition. With every song, he’s bringing heart, purpose, and connection to the stage. Whether he’s celebrating his Southern roots or honoring lost loved ones, his music reminds us of the deeper power it holds—to comfort, to connect, and to heal.
In a season packed with standout voices and unforgettable moments, John Roberts took things to a whole new level on the latest episode of American Idol. With his emotional original song “Just As She Was Leaving,” Roberts didn’t just sing—he told a story that gripped every heart in the room.
Walking on stage with quiet confidence and just his guitar, John introduced the song as a personal reflection on love and letting go. What followed was a stripped-down, soul-baring performance that let his voice—and his words—do all the talking. With every lyric, he painted a clear and emotional picture of a romance slipping away, and the ache that remains long after.
Judge Carrie Underwood was visibly moved. “John, that was absolutely beautiful,” she said. “You have a gift for turning real emotion into music, and that’s something truly special.” Fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan echoed her praise, applauding his honesty, vocal control, and skill as a songwriter.
As the last note faded, the audience jumped to their feet, many wiping away tears. On social media, fans couldn’t stop talking about it. Hashtags like #JohnRoberts and #JustAsSheWasLeaving began trending, with viewers calling it one of the most emotional and memorable performances of the season.
John’s journey on Idol has been steady and full of heart. He’s not the loudest performer—but he’s one of the most real. Each week, he’s shown a little more of who he is, both as a person and as an artist. But this song felt like his breakthrough moment—the one that set him apart and hinted at the kind of meaningful career he could have beyond the show.
In a season full of big voices, “Just As She Was Leaving” reminded everyone of something simple yet powerful: when music is honest, it hits deeper. And thanks to John Roberts, Idol had one of those rare, unforgettable moments that will stay with people long after the season ends.
It was a night full of surprises on American Idol, and no one delivered a more memorable moment than John Foster. The 18-year-old Louisiana native didn’t just wow the judges with his performance—he left the audience (and Miranda Lambert!) smiling with a sweet confession and an unexpected duet that fans are still buzzing about.
During the May 4 Top 8 episode, themed “Ladies’ Night” in honor of iconic women in music, Foster chose Bonnie Raitt’s fiery hit “Something to Talk About.” But before he sang a single note, the night took an unforgettable turn. As part of his mentoring session, Foster met with country superstar Miranda Lambert—and casually admitted that she was his very first crush.
“I think I turned red,” Miranda laughed later. “He walked in with his cowboy hat and charm, and I was like, ‘Okay, I love this kid.’”
That chemistry carried onto the stage. In a surprise twist, Lambert joined Foster for a live duet, turning the performance into a playful, energetic moment that lit up the room. Foster held his own beside the country queen, blending confidence, charisma, and just the right amount of wide-eyed excitement. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a breakout moment.
Judges were quick to shower him with praise. Carrie Underwood called him the contestant who’s shown the most growth, noting his stage presence and connection with the crowd. Luke Bryan added with a grin, “Your charisma meter? It’s peaking.”
The internet agreed. Social media lit up with fans calling Foster a “dark horse” and a “natural star,” celebrating not only his vocals but his joyful energy and genuine personality.
And while Foster is rising in the Idol ranks, he’s still grounded in purpose. A biology student at LSU, he’s been vocal about wanting to become a “singing oncologist”—and recently launched a fundraiser to support the American Cancer Society. Whether on a stage or in a hospital, Foster’s heart is firmly set on helping others.
Now firmly in the Top 8, it’s clear: John Foster is no longer just the kid with a dream. He’s an artist, a storyteller, and after a night like this, a name we’ll be hearing for a long time.
