John Foster Pays Tribute to Late Best Friend with Emotional Original Song on ‘American Idol’

Foster’s Song “Tell That Angel I Love Her” Was Written for Two Close Friends He Lost

John Foster, a Louisiana native and LSU biology student, dreams of becoming a pre-med professional to help cancer patients. During his American Idol audition, he shared his goal of becoming a “singing oncologist.”

His performance of a classic Conway Twitty song won the judges over, with Luke turning his initial “no” into a heartfelt “yes” thanks to Foster’s warm personality and Southern charm. Watch below.

John Foster Shines in the Top 24

After making it into the top 24, Foster took a trip to Hawaii.

He performed the lively “Callin’ Baton Rouge” by The Oak Ridge Boys, a song that had the judges dancing and the audience buzzing. It was a tribute to his Louisiana heritage.

But did it help him secure a spot in the top 20? Watch below.

John Foster Moves the American Idol Audience to Tears with Original Song

Foster made it to the top 20, where he performed his original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” a deeply emotional tribute to his late friends, Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill.

His heartfelt performance brought him to tears, finishing with the words, “I love you, Maggie.” Carrie Underwood was visibly moved and asked him about that emotional statement.

Foster explained that the song was dedicated to his friends, gesturing toward the audience where Maggie and Caroline’s parents were seated.

Some of the song’s poignant lyrics are:

“Each tear that falls on my guitar
Is a hug from afar
Lord, won’t you tell that angel I love her?
As y’all live in the stars”

According to L&M Star Productions, Foster shared:

“I wrote this for the two sweet angels taken from us on New Year’s Eve. Maggie was one of my best friends, and Caroline was a dear friend who I wish I’d gotten to know even better. Until we meet again. So much love to everyone.”

Watch his emotional performance below.