Louisiana country musician set to appear on American Idol

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) —  A rising country artist from West Baton Rouge Parish is set to make his national television debut on American Idol on Sunday.

John Foster, a singer-songwriter from Addis, will appear on the show just two weeks after its new season premiere. He auditioned for the competition

in November in Nashville, Tennessee—a moment he describes as life-changing.

“Words cannot describe how excited I am to be featured on ‘American Idol,'” Foster said. “It’s an amazing show that has produced so many admirable stars throughout its long history.”

Deep roots in country music

For Foster, country music isn’t just a genre—it’s a way of life.

“There’s nothing in the world like true country music, and I’m so blessed to call myself a country artist,” he said.

While his heart belongs to country, he has a deep appreciation for music with meaning and soul. His influences span across genres, including gospel, jazz, blues, Cajun, zydeco, and swamp pop—styles that have shaped his own unique sound.

During one of his shows, you might hear him cover songs from Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson, George Strait, Hank Williams Sr., Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, D.L. Menard, Fats Domino, and Willie Nelson.

Of all his influences, Willie Nelson stands above the rest.

“He’s my greatest inspiration and my favorite musician of all time,” Foster said.

Humble beginnings, big dreams

Though he now performs on big stages, Foster’s journey started in small Louisiana towns. He was raised in Addis but also lived in Brusly and Plaquemine. He graduated from Brusly High School before launching his music career.

He didn’t start singing until he was 14 years old, but once he did, there was no turning back.

His first public performance was with the band Ruff n’ Ready at Gros’ Marina in July 2021. Just one year later, he landed his first full solo gig at Morley Marina in Brusly.

Over the years, he’s shared stages with various artists, including actor and musician John Schneider, best known for “The Dukes of Hazzard.”

Aiming for the Grand Ole Opry

For Foster, “American Idol” is just one step toward a much bigger dream—singing at the Grand Ole Opry.

“There is no better place that exhibits the history of country music,” he said.

But above all, he hopes to use his music to spread joy and connection.

“I hope that when my time on Earth is done, I spent my entire life making this world a slightly more joyful place through my music,” he said.

Watch Foster’s journey unfold by following him on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.

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