During American Idol Season 23’s Top 10 live show, country standout John Foster delivered an emotional rendition of Randy Travis’ classic hit, “I Told You So”—and it struck a personal chord for one Idol alum watching from home.
Crews Wright, a former contestant who was eliminated earlier this season, took to social media to express his admiration for Foster’s heartfelt performance. “John Foster did an incredible job last night on American Idol singing ‘I Told You So’ by the legend Randy Travis!” Wright wrote on Instagram. “A behind-the-scenes fun fact is that I submitted this song as a part of my audition process; it’s a true country classic.”
This connection gave Foster’s performance an added layer of meaning. While he stood alone on stage, singing with quiet strength and emotional precision, the moment was shared—not just with the audience and judges, but with former contestants like Crews who recognized the weight of the song within the Idol journey.
Watch the performance:
Foster, a Louisiana native known for his deep country roots and powerful storytelling, has consistently brought raw honesty to the Idol stage. “I Told You So,” famously performed by Randy Travis and Carrie Underwood on American Idol in 2009, served as both a tribute to country legends and a subtle nod to Underwood, who mentored the contestants earlier this season.
Carrie Underwood, watching from the sidelines, beamed as Foster honored a song that’s deeply woven into Idol history. The moment didn’t go unnoticed by fans, who praised Foster’s old-school delivery and his ability to bring emotion to every lyric.
While Crews Wright’s Idol journey ended after a high-stakes elimination round, his passion for music—and his support for fellow contestants—hasn’t faded. “It’s a bump in the road, but the journey was unforgettable,” he said. “I’m appreciative of American Idol; it was phenomenal to be in a room with so much talent, even if I didn’t make it to the Top 24.”
Now, he’s focused on releasing new music and playing live shows. Still, he remains closely connected to the Idol family, cheering on artists like Foster who are continuing the journey he once walked.
As John Foster continues to climb through the ranks of the competition, earning a coveted spot in the Top 10, he does so with the quiet support of those who came before him—like Crews Wright—rooting from the sidelines. It’s that sense of community, encouragement, and shared love for music that makes American Idol more than just a singing competition—it’s a family.
