John Foster, the American Idol runner-up who’s quickly becoming one of country music’s hottest new acts, brought fireworks of his own to Louisiana over the weekend. On Saturday, July 5, the 19-year-old singer turned the Paragon Casino Resort’s Mari Showroom into a boot-stomping, flag-waving country festival—and fans are still buzzing.
From the first beat of Brooks & Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” Foster had the crowd on its feet. The young Louisiana native led fans through a nostalgia-fueled set packed with honky-tonk hits, including “Neon Moon,” John Anderson’s “Swingin’,” and George Strait’s “All My Ex’s Live in Texas.” Every lyric rang with authenticity, every note soaked in Southern soul.
With a voice that effortlessly blends old-school country with modern grit, Foster didn’t just sing—he connected. Whether strumming his guitar or leaning into the crowd with a grin, his charisma was undeniable. Fans clapped, danced, and sang along like they were in the front row of a Nashville honky-tonk.
But beyond the setlist, it was Foster’s presence that stole the night. One moment, he was swaggering across the stage like a young Brooks; the next, he was locking eyes with fans in heartfelt ballads. His mix of humility and star power made it clear: this is a kid raised on country music, and he’s ready to carry the torch.
This high-energy performance in his home state marks just one stop on a jam-packed summer schedule for the breakout star. Next up? A birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry on July 9—marking his return to the iconic stage where he first vowed to “keep the circle unbroken.”
Additional dates include headline shows and major festivals across the South:
Upcoming John Foster Shows:
• July 9 – Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, TN (19th birthday show)
• July 26 – Marshland Festival, Lake Charles, LA
• August 1–2 – The Texas Club, Baton Rouge, LA (Aug 2 sold out—new show added Aug 1)
• August 21 – Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, TN (with Jamey Johnson)
• August 29 – Alley Fest, Paintsville, KY
• October 25 – Hobart Arena, Troy, OH (supporting Joe Nichols)
• October 31 – Boots on the Bayou Festival, Gonzales, LA (with Chris Stapleton & Cody Johnson)
Foster’s rapid rise proves he’s not just a reality TV standout—he’s the real deal. With a calendar full of shows and a fanbase growing by the day, he’s earning every bit of the spotlight. And if his show in Marksville is any indication, John Foster isn’t just playing country music. He’s living it.
