Two Beautiful Versions of “Amazing Grace” That Touched Millions: John Foster and Andrea Bocelli

“Amazing Grace” is one of the most beloved hymns in history, performed countless times by artists from all over the world. Yet, every now and then, a few performances stand out and capture the hearts of millions. Two such performances come from John Foster and Andrea Bocelli. Though these two artists come from very different musical worlds, both have delivered moving renditions of this timeless song, each leaving a unique mark on audiences.

John Foster’s Raw and Honest Version of “Amazing Grace” Goes Viral

In 2024, John Foster, a talented young country singer, shared his own raw, acoustic version of “Amazing Grace” on Facebook. This performance was deeply personal for John, as he explained in the video description. He said it felt fitting that his first music video post-Idol would be this hymn, because, in his words:

“It’s His Grace that’s brought me this far.”

The video was recorded in a simple, stripped-down style — just John, his guitar, and his faith. There was no auto-tune, no studio production, no elaborate lighting. It was a one-take performance, meant to be a sincere offering of gratitude. In the video, he even included a Cajun French chorus as a heartfelt nod to his roots and faith.

Fans React with Love and Emotion

The video quickly resonated with fans. Within weeks, it gathered:

• 688,000 views

• 35,000 likes

• Over 10,000 comments

Fans praised not only John’s voice but the honesty and humility in his delivery. One comment perfectly captured the sentiment many shared:

“You could sing Old McDonald had a farm and you’d still be my favorite!!”

Another fan said:

“Please don’t let that song be sung at my funeral… because I’d cry through the whole thing now.”

This reaction shows how deeply music can touch people when performed from the heart.

Watch John Foster’s Viral Facebook Performance Here:

Andrea Bocelli’s Majestic “Amazing Grace” Live at iTunes Festival 2012

On the other side of the music world, Andrea Bocelli, one of the most celebrated classical crossover tenors of all time, delivered his own unforgettable version of “Amazing Grace” during the iTunes Festival 2012 in London.

This performance, uploaded by the YouTube channel Bocellina, has amassed over 440,000 views. Bocelli’s interpretation was grand, elegant, and delivered with the vocal power and emotion that only he can bring. His version is steeped in tradition, bringing operatic strength and grace to the song while maintaining its simple, powerful message of redemption and hope.

Why Andrea Bocelli’s Version Still Moves Listeners

While Bocelli’s performance may not have been as viral on social media as John Foster’s, it carries a different kind of weight. His deep, rich vocals and years of performing at the highest level make this rendition a timeless piece of music history. The performance was part of a larger concert attended by thousands and professionally recorded in HD quality.

Bocelli’s fans continue to comment on the beauty of his voice, the purity of his delivery, and how his performances bring comfort and inspiration to people around the world.

Watch Andrea Bocelli’s Breathtaking iTunes Festival Performance Here:

Different Styles, Same Message of Grace

Both John Foster and Andrea Bocelli approached “Amazing Grace” in very different ways. One sang with a guitar in a quiet room, offering something raw and intimate. The other sang on a grand stage, backed by years of classical tradition and musical mastery.

Yet the message remains the same:

• Grace is universal.

• Music can lift hearts regardless of style, age, or genre.

• A sincere voice reaches people, whether it’s in a church, on Facebook, or at a world-famous venue.