On Sunday, May 18, 2025, during Season 23 of American Idol, 18-year-old Louisiana native John Foster delivered a heartfelt rendition of Brooks & Dunn’s “Believe” as a tribute to his mother. The performance, coinciding with Mother’s Day and the show’s Disney Week, resonated deeply with both the judges and the audience, leaving many in tears.
Foster, an LSU student with aspirations of becoming a “singing oncologist,” shared the profound influence his mother has had on his life and faith. “It’s a song that’s very rooted in faith, which is how I see my mom. She’s my faith,” Foster expressed before his performance. A pre-recorded video featured his mother stating, “I was born to be a mom, and I’m so glad that he’s mine,” adding to the emotional weight of the moment.
The judges praised Foster’s sincere and moving performance. Carrie Underwood, visibly emotional, commended his ability to convey deep feelings through his music. The audience’s reaction was equally powerful, with many standing in ovation and wiping away tears.
Foster’s journey on American Idol has been marked by poignant performances. Earlier in the season, he performed an original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” dedicated to his late friends Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, who tragically passed away in a car accident on New Year’s Eve 2022. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Foster’s emotional delivery left a lasting impression on viewers and the judges alike.
With his Mother’s Day performance of “Believe,” Foster advanced into the Top 5 of the competition, solidifying his status as a standout contestant. His ability to connect with audiences through genuine emotion and storytelling continues to set him apart as American Idol approaches its final stages.
As the season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate Foster’s next performances, drawn to his authenticity and heartfelt tributes that honor the people who have shaped his life.