Breanna Nix has had a whirlwind of a week—one filled with deep gratitude, powerful connections, and a little nod from country music royalty that she’ll likely never forget.
The “American Idol” finalist has been reflecting on the people who continue to pour into her life. For Nix, this season isn’t just about rising in the music industry—it’s about surrounding herself with people who lift her up when she can’t quite see the light herself. These aren’t just friends; they’re the kind of people who offer encouragement when it’s quiet, who believe in her not just when she shines, but when she’s figuring things out. Their love, presence, and belief in her have been pivotal as she embraces joy, purpose, and a sense of calling that grows louder by the day.
And that light she’s feeling? It’s starting to shine in some pretty major ways.
During CMA Fest in Nashville, Nix reunited with fellow American Idol Season 23 finalist—and close friend—John Foster. The two carved out a little time in between events to work on a stripped-down duet of Randy Travis’ iconic hit “I Told You So.” In the video Breanna posted on June 9, she takes the first verse and Foster follows with the second, both delivering with the kind of raw emotion and easy chemistry that Idol fans have come to adore.
What they didn’t expect was a response from the legend himself.
Just two days later, Randy Travis commented on the post and urged them to finish their version. Not only did he give them his blessing, he even said that he and Carrie Underwood—who famously dueted with Travis on the same song during American Idol in 2009—would love to hear their full rendition.
“Please finish! I need to hear it!!” Travis wrote. “Y’all are incredible artists and will make Carrie and I both proud! Looking forward to hearing so much from y’all in the years to come! Thank you😉”
Breanna, clearly overwhelmed, responded with pure joy: “Oh my word! Yes sir!!!! ❤️ Thank you so very much!! We will get to it!❤️” She then shared a screenshot of his comment on her Instagram Stories with the caption: “The legend himself wants more!!! We’re gonna work this week! ❤️😊”
The moment was not lost on fans either. One user summed it up beautifully: “This is the best news ever coming from YOU!! Thank you for giving them your blessing!! John and Breanna are such talented artists who have proven themselves to let their voices be heard and let their precious hearts shine💫”
For Breanna, the experience isn’t just about a duet or social media attention—it’s a moment of affirmation from someone who helped shape the genre she loves. And for Foster, who has also seen rapid growth and critical praise since his Idol journey, it’s another step on a path filled with purpose.
Meanwhile, Randy Travis continues to be an ever-present figure in country music despite enormous personal challenges. After a near-fatal stroke in 2013 that left him with aphasia and limited speech, he still tours across the U.S. with his original band and guest vocalist James Dupré. Though he no longer performs vocally, his presence on stage continues to inspire—and his blessing carries immeasurable weight.
With renewed energy, love from their community, and encouragement from the greats, Nix and Foster are working on something special. Whatever comes next, it’s clear they’re not just singing songs—they’re becoming part of the country music story themselves.
