John Foster didn’t just sing on Monday night’s American Idol Top 5 episode—he enchanted. With two Disney-themed performances that balanced charm and heart, the 18-year-old country crooner proved he’s more than a genre artist—he’s a true performer.
As fans across America cast their votes to determine the final three, Foster stepped up in a major way, taking on two unlikely choices: “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book and the tender “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppet Movie.
On paper? A risky move.
On stage? Pure magic.
A Country Artist in a Disney World—and Still Totally Himself
Performing songs that strayed far from his Louisiana country roots, Foster could have easily fallen flat. But instead, he leaned in with confidence, delivering the playful “Bare Necessities” with a wink and a grin, and wrapping “Rainbow Connection” in the warmth and soulfulness that’s become his trademark.
He made these Disney staples feel brand new—and undeniably Foster.
Judges Can’t Get Enough of His Signature Sound
The judges were quick to recognize his ability to put his stamp on anything he sings.
“No matter what you do, John Foster is John Foster,” said Carrie Underwood, nodding to his originality. “You dressed like you. You sound like you.”
Luke Bryan, never short on praise for the young artist, called out his stage presence with a triple dose of excitement:
“Charisma, charisma, charisma!”
And Lionel Richie didn’t hold back, calling Foster’s voice an instant identity:
“I know your voice in three notes. That’s the kind of thing that makes a career last forever.”
Carrie Underwood Drops a Bombshell Prediction
If anyone needed a sign that John Foster is a front-runner, they got it when Carrie made a bold call on live TV:
“If you ain’t real careful,” she said with a smile,
“you might win this whole thing.”
A Star Beyond Genre
John Foster’s journey on American Idol has been one of surprise and evolution. From honky-tonk covers to Disney classics, he’s made each performance feel true to who he is—authentic, heartfelt, and refreshingly unique.
Whether he takes home the crown or not, one thing is clear: John Foster isn’t just a contestant. He’s a star in the making.
