As John Foster continues to win over hearts on American Idol, the 18-year-old country crooner took a moment to address some false information circulating about his background.
“For the sake of all of my family (followers) getting to know me better,” Foster wrote in a heartfelt Facebook post, “I’d like to clear up some misinformation that has been spreading on Facebook.”
He started by clarifying his age and hometown. Contrary to online rumors, Foster is not 24 years old and he isn’t from Kentucky. “I’m 18, and I proudly come from Addis, Louisiana,” he wrote. “I’ve never even been to Kentucky—though I do hope to visit someday!”
He also set the record straight regarding his musical connections, stating that he is not related to country legend Dwight Yoakam and has not been signed to Sugar Hill Records or any other label, despite internet claims suggesting otherwise.
“There was some misinformation that Dwight Yoakam signed me under Sugar Hill Records,” he explained. “That’s not true.”
Foster closed the message with a warm and humble tone, inviting fans to engage with him directly: “If you have any questions about me, try commenting them under this post. Either I or someone who knows me well will likely answer you! God Bless!”
From Underdog to Top 10 Favorite
Since his memorable audition—where he flipped a shaky start into Idol gold with a soulful rendition of Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time”—Foster has steadily risen as one of this season’s most beloved contestants.
His country roots have continued to shine with performances of hits like Jamey Johnson’s “In Color,” Brooks & Dunn’s “Neon Moon,” and Garth Brooks’ “Callin’ Baton Rouge.” Fans also connected deeply with his original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” inspired by personal loss.
Foster showed his range again last weekend, earning his Top 12 spot with a rockin’ version of Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock.” On Monday night, he took an emotional leap with his first performance without a guitar, singing “I Told You So” by Randy Travis—a duet famously performed with Carrie Underwood during her American Idol run.
Even Underwood herself was moved, saying, “I’m blushing!” and calling him “sweet and fresh-faced” in a later interview. “I love watching you grow every time you take the stage,” she added.
What’s Next?
Now among the Top 10, Foster is preparing for the next live show on Sunday, May 4, where the remaining contestants will perform songs in celebration of iconic women in music during a “Ladies’ Night” themed episode. America will vote live to determine who advances to the Top 8.
With his humility, undeniable talent, and growing fanbase, John Foster is proving that the heart of country music is alive and well—and that his Idol journey is just getting started.
