Country music claimed the spotlight during the American Idol Season 23 finale when finalist John Foster joined judge Luke Bryan for a heartfelt rendition of Randy Travis’s classic, “Deeper Than The Holler.”
Airing live on Sunday, May 18, the moment was one of the most talked-about performances of the night — and for good reason. Foster, widely regarded as the season’s most authentic country artist, stood shoulder to shoulder with one of today’s biggest stars in a performance that honored a legend and celebrated tradition.
A Pure Country Moment on Idol’s Biggest Night
Following Bryan’s solo of his latest hit “Country Song Came On,” the superstar invited Foster to the stage to pay tribute to the great Randy Travis. Their duet of “Deeper Than The Holler” felt effortless — a blend of Foster’s vintage twang and Bryan’s contemporary style that evoked the golden era of ‘90s country.
Social media lit up with praise:
“John Foster sounds more country than Luke Bryan! He’s got that 90s sound and it’s GREAT.”
Many called the duet one of the most authentic and emotionally grounded moments of the entire finale.
Foster’s Finale Setlist: Four Songs, One Statement
Throughout the night, Foster delivered a powerful set of performances that doubled down on his traditional country roots:
- Group Performance: “We Are the Champions” (Queen) with Jamal Roberts and Breanna Nix
- Solo: “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” (Toby Keith)
- Solo: “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (John Denver)
- Duet: “Deeper Than The Holler” (Randy Travis) with Luke Bryan
Each selection felt intentional — a love letter to country music’s legacy and the values Foster holds dear: faith, family, and hometown pride.
From Underdog to Fan Favorite
When Foster first auditioned with Alan Jackson’s “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” and Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time,” he won over Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie — but not Luke Bryan, who questioned whether Foster had what it took.
Weeks later, after Foster’s Top 8 performance of George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart,” Bryan reversed course in a powerful moment:
“No one has ever proved me more wrong. I am so proud of you.”
That same humility and hunger drove Foster all the way to the finale — and ultimately into the hearts of millions.
A Voice That Keeps the Circle Unbroken
In a season packed with talent, twists, and viral performances, John Foster stood out for his unwavering commitment to country music’s roots. His duet with Luke Bryan was more than a nod to Randy Travis — it was a reminder that real country is alive and well.
🎬 Watch their full performance of “Deeper Than The Holler” below.
