John Foster Ignites Hometown Crowd with “Calling Baton Rouge” Performance Ahead of American Idol Finale

From small-town dreamer to national sensation, American Idol finalist John Foster returned to Addis, Louisiana, on May 14 for a homecoming celebration that united an entire community in pride and joy.

As he prepares to compete in the American Idol Season 23 Grand Finale, the 18-year-old country singer and Brusly High School graduate was welcomed back with a full day of events, including a surprise school visit, a massive parade, and an electrifying concert that brought his hometown to its feet.

A Stirring Tribute to Louisiana: “Calling Baton Rouge”

As the sun set over the heart of Addis, John Foster took the stage to a roaring crowd, donning his signature cowboy hat and flashing his familiar smile. But when he began his show-stopping performance of “Calling Baton Rouge,” the celebration reached new heights.

“He wasn’t just singing — he was living the music,” one fan shared. “You could feel Louisiana in every note.”

With a local band behind him, Foster’s vocals soared as thousands of fans joined in chorus. The performance became a true anthem of Southern pride, echoing across Vaughn Drive with uncontainable energy.

A Surprise Pep Rally at Brusly High School

Earlier in the day, Foster made a surprise stop at Brusly High School, where he was greeted by cheering students, staff, and teachers decked out in “We Love John Foster” shirts. A heartfelt pep rally on the football field included autographs, games, and emotional speeches.

“If you wish to lead a successful life, listen to your teachers,” Foster told students. “I’ve been to California and Hawaii, but nowhere is like Brusly.”

Teachers and administrators beamed with pride as Foster’s grandparents, Verbie and John Foster Benoit I, stood by during the tribute.

The Parade That Stopped a Town

At 5:00 p.m., more than 5,000 fans flooded First Street in Addis for a homecoming parade. Floats were decorated in scarlet, gold, and black — the colors of Brusly High — and crowds chanted “John Foster! Number one!” as he passed by on a crawfish-themed float.

Local businesses, schools, and even city offices closed early so families could take part in the celebration. Handmade signs filled the route, with one reading:

“If George Strait is King of Country, John Foster is the PRINCE!”

A Bayou Entrance to Remember

In true Louisiana fashion, Foster made a dramatic entrance to his concert by arriving by boat, launching from the Iberville Parish Jail and leading a flotilla of fans down the bayou. The crowd erupted as he stepped onto the waterfront stage — a uniquely Southern spectacle that symbolized his roots.

Small Town, Big Dreams

While the day centered around Foster, Addis is celebrating more than one success:

• The Brusly Panthers baseball team advanced to the LHSAA State Tournament.
• Freshman Maci Williams earned top honors in girls golf.
• The boys track team won their first title in over two decades.

“It’s been incredible to be home,” Foster said after his performance. “This is everything I love — family, food, and faith.”

Local Businesses Join the Celebration

Fans crowded into Benoit’s Country Meat Block, Foster’s family’s butcher shop, scooping up boudin, stuffed chicken, and Foster-themed T-shirts. One customer compared the atmosphere to a holiday:

“It felt like Christmas in May,” said a store employee.

Looking Ahead to the Idol Finale

John Foster’s homecoming was more than a celebration — it was a declaration. He hasn’t just represented Louisiana on a national stage — he’s carried it with him in every lyric, every smile, and every humble word.

The American Idol Season 23 Grand Finale airs Sunday, May 18 at 8 PM ET on ABC. Whether or not he wins the crown, John Foster has already become a legend in the eyes of his hometown.