John Foster has become one of the most emotional and compelling contestants on American Idol this season as the 18-year-old from Louisiana has shown that his talent goes far beyond just singing; it’s about connecting to his emotions and sharing them with the world. His performance on April 20, 2025 was a perfect example of this, when he dedicated his original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her” to his late friend, Maggie Dunn who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2022.
The performance was full of raw emotion and it was clear that every word John sang came from a deep, heartfelt place as the crowd could feel his pain as he poured his heart into the song, ending with a powerful dedication to his friend. The judges were visibly moved and the audience’s reaction was just as emotional. Carrie Underwood, who has become a mentor and a guiding light for John, praised his vulnerability and authenticity calling him “the sweetest and freshest voice” on the show. The moment left many in tears showing the true power of music to heal and connect.
John Foster Sings “Tell That Angel I Love Her” | American Idol 2025
As the performance ended, the audience erupted into applause but it wasn’t just because of the emotional weight of the song. It was also because John had shown his ability to captivate; not just with his voice but with his heart as his growth as an artist was evident and it’s clear that this performance was a turning point in his American Idol journey.
Earlier in the season, John wowed the judges with his rendition of “I Told You So” by Randy Travis. This performance, too; was heartfelt but in a completely different way; while the tribute to Maggie was personal and somber, his performance of Randy Travis’s classic showcased his range and his ability to connect with the audience in a different light.
John Foster – I Told You So | Top 12 Performance | American Idol 2025
John has become a fan favorite, not just because of his voice, but because of how he connects with his audience. His journey has been full of highs and lows and he’s shared every moment with his fans.
On social media, John has kept his followers updated on both his American Idol journey and his personal life; from tributes to his friends to his medical studies. His authenticity continues to resonate with fans and he’s built a loyal following of people who admire his humility and talent.