💥💥 He grew up in foster care and could’ve easily lost his way — but instead, this young man stepped up to raise his younger brother and sister, putting them through school and giving them a chance at life he never had, and when he stood on that stage to perform a haunting rendition of “Hallelujah,” with tears still clinging to his face and years of struggle in every note, the audience fell silent, then wept — because in that moment, they weren’t just hearing a song, they were witnessing a story of love, sacrifice, and an unbreakable spirit. WATCH BELOW 👇👇

American Idol Season 23 standout John Foster is speaking directly to fans after several misleading claims about his identity began circulating online. In a heartfelt and clarifying Facebook post, the 18-year-old Louisiana native addressed false rumors — from his age and hometown to whispers of a record deal with country music legend Dwight Yoakam.

“Let Me Set the Record Straight” — Foster’s Message to Fans

“For the sake of all my family (followers) getting to know me better,” Foster wrote, “I’d like to clear up some misinformation that has been spreading on Facebook.”

In his message, Foster addressed several points:

• ❌ He is not 24 years old. He’s 18.

• ❌ He’s not from Benton, Kentucky. He proudly hails from Addis, Louisiana.

“I’ve never even been to Kentucky,” he shared, though it’s on his list to visit someday.

Most notably, Foster cleared up speculation that he had been signed by Dwight Yoakam under Sugar Hill Records — a rumor that gained traction among country music fans.

“There was some misinformation that Dwight Yoakam signed me under Sugar Hill Records,” he wrote. “That’s simply not true.”

Stick to Verified Sources, Foster Reminds Fans

Foster concluded his post by encouraging his growing fanbase to only trust updates from his official page, which is verified with a blue checkmark. He invited fans to engage directly:

“If you have any questions about me, try commenting under this post. Either I or someone who knows me well will likely answer you. God bless!”

From Small Town Covers to the American Idol Top 10

John Foster made his debut on American Idol with a medley of classic country songs: George Jones’ “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” and Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time.” His old-school charm, authentic country tone, and stage presence immediately impressed the judges and audiences alike.

Since then, he’s delivered standout performances week after week, including:

• “Neon Moon” by Brooks & Dunn

• “In Color” by Jamey Johnson

• “Callin’ Baton Rouge” by Garth Brooks

• His own original ballad, “Tell That Angel I Love Her” — a moving tribute to a late friend

A Standout Moment Without His Guitar

During the “Iconic Idol Moments” episode, Foster took a bold step by performing without his signature guitar for the first time. His choice? A powerful rendition of “I Told You So” — the classic duet once performed by Carrie Underwood and Randy Travis on Idol in 2009.

The performance, meant as a tribute to judge Carrie Underwood, earned him overwhelming praise and cemented his place in the Top 10.

🎸 “You continue to grow with every performance,” said Luke Bryan.
“That was a moment,” Carrie Underwood noted, visibly touched.

 

What’s Next for John Foster on American Idol?

Foster will return to the Idol stage on Sunday, May 4, for the “Ladies’ Night” themed episode — a celebration of iconic women in music. Viewers will once again vote live as the Top 10 compete for a coveted spot in the Top 8.

With his authentic Southern roots, vocal power, and undeniable heart, John Foster is proving to be one of the most compelling voices of this season — and one to watch well beyond Idol.