John Foster brought his A-game to the American Idol Season 23 finale. During the three-hour live event, the young country singer took the stage to perform a patriotic classic by Toby Keith.
Foster’s choice was Keith’s 2002 hit, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” which he delivered with passion and conviction. His powerful performance earned him a standing ovation from all three judges.
“Perfect song, my friend, and you just nailed it,” praised Lionel Richie. Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan also highlighted Foster’s impressive growth throughout the competition.
While Foster impressed the judges and audience alike, the competition remained tight with fellow finalists Jamal Roberts and Breanna Nix. Ultimately, it would be up to America’s voters to decide who would take home the Idol crown.
John Foster’s New Single
Ahead of the finale, each finalist released a new single. Foster’s was a heartfelt original titled “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” He first performed the song during Idol’s Songs of Faith week, where it deeply moved both the judges and viewers.
Foster wrote the track in memory of two close friends who tragically died in a car accident.
“I wrote this for the two sweet angels that were tragically taken from us on New Year’s Eve,” Foster shared. “Maggie was one of my best friends and Caroline was a good friend of mine who I regret not knowing even more. Until we meet again. So much love to everyone.”
In an Instagram post announcing the single, Foster called it “the most instrumental song that I’ve ever sang in my entire life.”
John Foster Opens Up About His American Idol Journey
Whether or not he wins, Foster says the experience has already been a victory.
“I’ve been saying since I won the golden ticket that I feel like I’ve won,” he told an ABC affiliate in Louisiana. “To think that I’ve continued to progress, all the way up to the top three, is amazing.”
As for managing his sudden rise to fame, Foster credits his faith for keeping him grounded.
“I’ve just kind of had to make sure that I’m staying centered on myself and my faith and knowing that I have a purpose here and that’s why I’m here,” he told nola.com. “And that’s what’s keeping me straight and that’s all I can do.”
