John Foster Pays Tribute to Carrie Underwood with Emotional Performance on American Idol
The Top 12 contestants of American Idol Season 23 took the stage on Monday, April 28, for a special night honoring “Iconic Idol Moments.” Among the standout performances was country hopeful John Foster, who paid heartfelt tribute to judge Carrie Underwood with a rendition of “I Told You So,” the song she famously performed with Randy Travis on the show in 2009.
“Carrie Underwood’s kind of been my voice on the panel,” John shared. “In my first audition, she asked me to sing a second song—and if I didn’t sing that second song, Luke [Bryan] would’ve been a no. This is my way to say, ‘I love you, Carrie. Thank you for all the support.’”
John began his performance seated on a stool, but following advice from mentor Fantasia Barrino—another Idol alum—he brought more energy and connection, walking down toward the audience and finishing the song directly in front of Underwood. In a sweet, respectful gesture, he tipped his hat to her at the end.
Carrie was visibly moved. “I’m blushing!” she said with a smile. “I love that with each challenge, you push yourself—whether it’s trying different kinds of songs or putting down the guitar. I love watching you grow every time you take the stage. I’ll speak for Randy Travis when I say I really think he would’ve liked that.”
Luke Bryan chimed in playfully before offering his feedback. “You know her husband’s a hockey player, right?” he teased, prompting laughter from the audience. Underwood added with a grin, “My husband’s a big man!” She’s been married to retired NHL star Mike Fisher since 2010.
“[John’s] just up there, singing right to Carrie! I’m like, ‘Boy, you better get back there!’” Bryan joked. John responded with a smile and reassured her, “All respect, all respect.”
As the show cut to commercial, host Ryan Seacrest asked Underwood if her husband was watching. Without missing a beat, she said, “Of course!”
Thanks to viewer votes, John was one of the 10 contestants who advanced to the next round. He’ll return to the stage on Saturday, May 4, for a night celebrating iconic women in music.
