John Foster proved he’s more than just a powerhouse country vocalist during Sunday night’s episode of American Idol. He turned up the heat with a thrilling tribute to Elvis Presley in honor of the “Rock & Roll Hall of Fame” themed night of performances.
As soon as he hit the stage, Foster asked the crowd, “y’all ready to rock the house tonight?” He earned a roar of cheers as the well-known 1957 hit “Jailhouse Rock,” filled the room.
Prior to his performance, Foster and the rest of the remaining contestants received a bit of guidance from guest mentor and music icon, James Taylor. His advice to loosen up a bit clearly paid off because Foster did just that by showing off some new dance moves while still keeping his signature style of a guitar and cowboy hat in check.
Idol Judges Give Their Feedback
Confidence oozed from the Louisiana native while his vocals effortlessly capturing infectious Presley’s spirit. This bold performance proved he’s not just another soulful voice in country music, but a full-fledged entertainer whose career is just beginning. The judges seem to agree.
Luke Bryan was first to sing Foster’s praises, admitting he was “very proud” of the performance he just witnessed.
“It was exactly what you wanted — it wasn’t like an Elvis [impersonator], it was just John Foster doing Elvis. It was very comfortable just watching you,” he added said.
Up next was Lionel Richie who wholeheartedly agreed, and made sure to point out his more relaxed state on stage.
“You were so comfortable, so comfortable, and that’s what made it so believable for us. You did a great job.”
Carrie Underwood was last to give her critiques. She shared, “I feel like we’re at the point in the competition where it’s like either you get it and you’re growing every single week and becoming more and more comfortable or you’re not and America will have to do what America does.”
She added, “But that was such a great song choice, you’re were having fun with it, you made it your own and I feel like I was watching like a young Dwight Yoakam up there.”
John Foster’s ‘American Idol’ Journey So Far
Foster was just 18 years old when he wowed the judges at his audition that featured a medley of two classic country songs – “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” by George Jones and “Goodbye Time” by Conway Twitty. These deliveries put him through to Hollywood, where he’s continue to captivate America’s votes with songs like “In Color” by Jamey Johnson, Garth Brooks’ “Callin’ Baton Rogue” and Brooks & Dunn’s “Neon Moon,” as well as a touching original song titled “Tell That Angel I Love Her.”
Foster most recent bold performance paid off, earning him a spot in the Top 12 of Season 23. Him, along with the rest of the 12 remaining singers will go on to perform songs by iconic Idol moments of the past tonight on American Idol at 8/7c on ABC.
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