Two weeks after taking second place on the season 23 finale of “American Idol,” 18-year-old country crooner John Foster thrilled fans with a glimmer of the new music he’s working on, including inspiration from meeting one of his own idols.

On May 31, 2025, Foster posted a new music video, filmed in one take, of himself performing “Amazing Grace” with a dose of his Louisiana-infused sound.

“I thought it fitting that my first Post-Idol music video be ‘Amazing Grace’, because it’s His Grace that’s brought me this far,” he wrote. “This is a raw, one-take recording, and every lyric, including the Cajun French chorus, is a thank you to God. Thank you Fable House for capturing this moment.”

Fans Gush Over New Cover Song: ‘How Sweet the Sound’

“American Idol” fans saw Foster perform “Amazing Grace” a couple of times, including a portion performed in Cajun French, during his hometown visit on the show, when he serenaded lawmakers at the Louisiana State Capitol on May 14.

Within 24 hours, over 10,000 fans liked Foster’s video, loved seeing his full rendition in the new music video, including one who wrote, “I loved hearing you sing Amazing Grace. John always keep this sweet humble spirit that you have ❤️❤️🙏”

Another commented, “John you are an amazing singer!! How sweet the sound. You have touched the hearts of millions with your beautiful voice. 😘”

“One of favorite gospel hymns,” someone else wrote. “Thank you for singing this one…I pray your life journey is Blessed all the way through and Beyond…Gods Blessings Always be with you…I also Loved the Cajun French added for the ‘flavor’ and sentiment that represents all of us fellow Louisianans…Huggs!! 🎵🥰🎶”

On the night before the “American Idol” finale, Foster also released his first single, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” via 19 Recordings, the show’s record label partner.

John Foster Performed with Louisiana Music Legend Wayne Toups

Two days before sharing his rendition of “Amazing Grace,” Foster shared another meaningful connection to his Louisiana roots, posting a photo with local music legend Wayne Toups on May 29.

“I’m so glad that this moment was captured,” Foster wrote. “I’m a country musician down to my bones, but there are many genres and musicians that contribute to my unique sound. One of them is this gentleman, Wayne Toups, who is a legend in Louisiana music.”

The teen continued, “That’s what good music is all about: unique sounds combining to connect with the millions. Stay tuned everyone; I’m working hard to get some great things headed your way!”

Foster and Toups — a Grammy-winning artist known for his unique blend of zydeco, Cajun, and southern rock — performed “Mathilda” together at the Cajun Country Memorial Day Festival, according to radio station Gator 99.5.

Toups also shared photos via Facebook from the concert and wrote, “We even had John Foster hit the stage with me—pure Louisiana magic! It was one for the books!”

Foster will get to perform alongside other legends on June 7, when he makes his Grand Ole Opry debut.