Before he was a finalist on American Idol, John Foster was already gaining attention online for his deep, old-school country sound. Millions now follow John Foster for their raw honesty and relatable feelings. In a clip shared by TikTok user Amanda (@qtmandyyy), Foster performs Joe Diffie’s “Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die),” bringing new heart to an old classic.
In the video, Foster delivers the 1993 hit with warmth and grit. The song is humorous on the surface about wanting to “go out” in true honky-tonk style but Foster’s take adds emotion beneath the laughter. You can feel the quiet sadness, the nostalgia, and a strange kind of comfort. He brings both playful charm and soulful depth showing the contrast between his lighthearted delivery and the serious truths hidden in the lyrics.
Prop me up beside the jukebox if I die!
Listeners responded quickly. Many said the video reminded them of family road trips, barroom jukeboxes or loved ones who passed. The comment section isn’t just full of compliments; it’s full of memories. This connection shows how John’s honesty and classic style create a strong bond between him and his audience.
A good way to understand Foster’s range is to listen to his original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” which he performed during the American Idol 2025 Grand Finale. If his Joe Diffie cover is about facing death with a wink and a drink, “Tell That Angel I Love Her” is about facing loss with reverence and love. It’s like two sides of the same coin; humor and heartache, both held gently in John’s voice.
John Foster Performs His New Single “Tell That Angel I Love Her” – American Idol 2025 Grand Finale
In “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” Foster’s performance is more intimate. His voice is steady, respectful, and full of longing. He sings like someone who’s felt loss deeply but still believes in love. A striking visual from the Idol performance is how he looks skyward, as if he’s truly speaking to someone who’s gone. Themes of remembrance and tenderness echo throughout the song.
John Foster’s gift is that he doesn’t fake anything—he sings the truth, whether it’s funny or painful. That’s why his music sticks. He honors classic country while making it feel fresh and personal. If you haven’t already, follow him on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The next song might be exactly what you need to hear.