“Idol” Runner-Up John Foster Invited To Make His Grand Ole Opry Debut

18-Year-Old John Foster Came In Second Place On Season 23 Of American Idol
Not long after he came in second place on Season 23 of American Idol, John Foster is heading to the Grand Ole Opry!

John was often called the “dark horse” contestant of the season. Judge Luke Bryan initially hesitated to give him a “yes” during the auditions. But after Carrie Underwood asked the 18-year-old country singer to try another song (he chose Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time), Luke flipped his vote from a “no” to a “yes.”

John advanced through Hollywood Week and Idol‘s time in Hawaii before advancing into the Top 20. Then, that’s when he delivered what ended up being his game-changing performance.

During Idol‘s Easter special, John performed his emotional original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” He wrote the song in memory of two of his friends who were killed in a car accident.

John thoroughly endeared himself to American Idol viewers after that. As the weeks progressed, he continued to prove himself with covers of country classics such as “I Told You So,” “Believe,” and “I Cross My Heart.”

When it came down to the end, John, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix were the three artists who advanced to the finale. Breanna ultimately came in third place, John was named the runner-up, and Jamal was crowned the season’s winner

John Foster To Make Debut Opry Appearance During CMA Fest In Nashville
A few days after the finale, John shared that he booked his first post-Idol appearance. He was a surprise addition to the lineup at the Cajun Country Jam, which was held in his home state of Louisiana over Memorial Day weekend.

During the festival, John got the opportunity to sing with Grand Ole Opry member Craig Morgan. After that performance, John took to social media to share some exciting news with his fans. He’s making his Opry debut on June 7!

“The first time I went to the Opry, I fought back tears because I was so overwhelmed with joy,” John said. “As an amateur country music historian, there is no more significant place to my passion (country music) than the Grand Ole Opry. This has been my #1 dream ever since I started music, and now, because of your support, my dream will come true! I will NEVER be able to express my gratitude! Glory be to God!”