ADDIS, LOUISIANA — On May 14, 2025, American Idol finalist John Foster returned home not just as a singer, but as a hometown hero. The 18-year-old country artist from Brusly High School was welcomed with a day full of love, pride, and music that left his entire community beaming.
A Celebration Rooted in Faith, Family, and Local Pride
From the moment he arrived, Foster was met with open arms. Crowds lined the streets of Addis — population just over 5,000 — decked in “We Love John Foster” shirts and homemade signs, eager to celebrate one of their own. For a small town that has faced its share of hardship, this day was something special.
“It’s nice to be in the news for something joyful,” said school secretary Aimee Rabalais, summing up the town’s collective emotion.
“Calling Baton Rouge” Becomes an Anthem
The highlight of the day came at sunset, when John stepped on stage in his signature cowboy hat to deliver a showstopping performance of “Calling Baton Rouge.” Backed by a local band and bathed in golden Louisiana light, Foster turned the field into a celebration of Southern roots and dreams realized.
“He wasn’t just performing,” one fan said. “He was testifying.”
As the crowd sang every lyric, it was clear this wasn’t just a concert — it was a love letter to Louisiana.
A Surprise Stop at Brusly High School
Earlier that day, Foster made an unannounced visit to Brusly High School, where students and teachers filled the football field in school colors and John Foster merch. His grandparents, Verbie Benoit and John Foster Benoit I, looked on proudly.
Foster didn’t miss the chance to inspire the next generation:
“If you want a successful life, listen to your teachers,” he said. “I’ve been to California and Hawaii… but nowhere is like Brusly.”
He joined students for games, autographs, and lots of hugs — the kind of humble act that’s become his signature.
A Parade, A Boat, and a Crawfish Float
By late afternoon, the town came alive with a homecoming parade down First Street. More than 5,000 people gathered as Foster rolled through on a giant crawfish float, tossing beads and waving through the wind.
Chants of “John Foster! Number one!” echoed down the streets, and signs like “If George Strait is King of Country, John Foster is the Prince!” were held high with pride.
But the grandest entrance came later — when John arrived by boat at his evening concert, escorted by a flotilla of cheering fans gliding along the bayou. It was a uniquely Southern and deeply personal touch that only someone raised in the heart of Louisiana could dream up.
More Than Just a Singer — A Symbol of What’s Possible
John Foster’s return home was more than a celebration of talent; it was a reminder that small towns can raise stars, that hard work and heart can still take you places, and that no matter how far you go, there’s always a place that calls you back.
As John put it best:
“It’s been incredible to be home. It’s my three favorite Fs: family, food, and faith.”
And in a town that proudly cheered him on every step of the way — from Benoit’s Country Meat Block to the American Idol stage — one thing is clear:
Addis didn’t just watch John Foster rise. They helped him fly.
