With a voice steeped in old-school country soul and a heart full of gratitude, American Idol finalist John Foster delivered one of the most emotional moments of the Season 23 finale with a powerful tribute to his military veteran grandfathers.
His performance of Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” had judge Carrie Underwood beaming with pride, while the audience leapt to their feet in a standing ovation. All three judges praised Foster, calling him the next big name in country music.
After rising above more than 120,000 hopefuls, Foster took the stage on May 18 as one of the top three contestants, alongside Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts. With just minutes to win over millions of live voters, he chose a song that reflected both his values and his family story.
Mentored by country star Jelly Roll, the 18-year-old Louisiana native shared during rehearsals how deeply moved he’s been by the support he’s received nationwide. But it was during the finale, with his guitar in hand and his grandfathers watching from the audience, that Foster made a lasting impression.
From the first note of the patriotic anthem, Foster commanded the room with a presence far beyond his years. His vocals rang clear and powerful, driven by emotion and purpose. All three judges rose to their feet in unanimous applause by the end.
Lionel Richie praised the choice, calling it the perfect song and joking that Foster might even have a future in politics. Luke Bryan commented on Foster’s remarkable growth since his first audition, saying his voice, confidence, and presence have all reached new heights. Carrie Underwood told Foster she was “so proud” of him for laying everything on the line in such a meaningful performance.
What made the moment truly stand out was the heart behind every lyric. Foster dedicated the song to his veteran grandfathers and to all service members across the country. With that personal connection, he transformed a patriotic anthem into a deeply emotional moment of family pride and national gratitude.
As the final chord echoed through the Idol stage, Foster looked toward his grandfathers and addressed the country with sincerity: “It would be the absolute honor of a lifetime if they think this little ol’ boy from Louisiana could be the next American Idol.”
Regardless of the final results, Foster’s performance was more than just a song—it was a powerful expression of identity, legacy, and purpose. And judging by the overwhelming response, a new country star may have just been born.
