John Foster’s Breakthrough: Sony Deal and a Tearful Tribute to His Idol Judges

In a whirlwind year, John Foster, the 18-year-old American Idol Season 23 runner-up from Addis, Louisiana, has secured a major milestone: a three-album deal with Sony Music Entertainment. The announcement, made exclusively to Billboard in June 2025, marks a pivotal moment in Foster’s meteoric rise from small-town dreamer to country music’s next big star. But the real buzz surrounds a hidden track on his debut album, a heartfelt tribute to his Idol judges—Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie—that left them visibly emotional during a private listening session. Here’s everything we know about this exciting development.

From American Idol to Sony Stardom

John Foster’s journey on American Idol captivated audiences with his soulful country performances and genuine charisma. The Louisiana native, who finished second to winner Jamal Roberts, stood out for his traditional country sound, reminiscent of legends like George Strait and Alan Jackson. His performances, including a tearful original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” dedicated to his late friend Maggie Dunn, showcased his ability to blend raw emotion with storytelling. Foster’s authenticity resonated, earning him a devoted fanbase and praise from judges, with Carrie Underwood noting his “wonderfully throwback” style.

Post-Idol, Foster wasted no time capitalizing on his momentum. He debuted at the Grand Ole Opry on June 7, 2025, during its 100th-anniversary celebration, a dream he described on Instagram as “the #1 dream ever since I started music.” He also performed at the Cajun Country Jam over Memorial Day weekend and announced a major birthday concert for July 9, 2025, in Baton Rouge. These milestones underscored his rising profile, but the Sony deal, reported by Billboard on June 10, 2025, elevates him to a new echelon. The three-album contract, a rare achievement for an Idol runner-up, signals Sony’s confidence in Foster’s potential to redefine country music.

The Sony Deal: A Game-Changer

The three-album deal with Sony Music Entertainment, a powerhouse in the music industry, positions Foster for a sustainable career. Unlike the standard Idol winner’s contract with Hollywood Records, Foster’s deal allows him greater creative control, a point he emphasized in a Billboard interview. “It’s a dream to work with Sony,” Foster said. “They’re letting me tell my story, my way, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted.” The deal reportedly includes a robust promotional push, with plans for Foster to tour nationally in 2026 and release his debut album by late 2025.

This contract dispels earlier rumors that Foster had a record deal during Idol, which he debunked in an April 2025 Facebook post, clarifying he was not signed to any label, including Sugar Hill Records, nor related to Dwight Yoakam. The Sony deal, finalized post-finale, reflects Foster’s ability to negotiate favorable terms, a strategic move for an Idol runner-up. As k945.com noted, not winning Idol may have benefited Foster, allowing him to secure a deal on his own terms rather than being tied to the show’s standard contract.

The Hidden Track: A Tribute That Touched Hearts

The most talked-about aspect of Foster’s upcoming debut album is a hidden track dedicated to his Idol judges. Titled “Thank You for Believing,” the song is a heartfelt ode to Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, who guided him through his Idol journey. According to Billboard, Foster played the track for the judges during a private session in Los Angeles in early June 2025, before the Sony deal was announced. The song, a slow acoustic ballad, reflects on how their mentorship shaped his confidence and career.

Lyrics like “You saw the spark when I was just a kid / Gave me wings for every dream I hid” reportedly brought Underwood to tears, with Bryan and Richie also visibly moved. Underwood, who inspired Foster’s Idol audition with her own journey as a Season 4 winner, praised the track’s sincerity, saying, “It’s like he’s speaking straight from his soul.” The song’s inclusion as a hidden track—a surprise for listeners not listed on the album’s tracklist—adds an element of intimacy, rewarding fans who discover it.

The tribute resonates deeply because of Foster’s personal connection to the judges. During Idol, he performed Underwood and Randy Travis’ “I Told You So,” dedicating it to her and crediting her for pushing him to sing a second audition song, Conway Twitty’s “Goodbye Time,” which secured his Hollywood ticket. Bryan called Foster a “wild card” who proved his worth, while Richie praised his storytelling ability. The hidden track serves as Foster’s thank-you, blending his gratitude with his signature country sound.

The Emotional Impact and Fan Reaction

The news of the hidden track has sparked excitement among Idol fans, who have flooded social media with praise. On Instagram, one fan commented, “John’s heart is what makes him special. A song for the judges? That’s gonna hit hard.” Another wrote, “Can’t wait to find this hidden track—it’s so John to do something this personal.” The track’s emotional weight echoes Foster’s Idol performance of “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” which moved audiences and judges alike with its tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn, killed in a 2022 car accident.

The song also highlights Foster’s songwriting prowess, a key factor in Sony’s decision to sign him. In a TV Insider interview, Foster revealed that his first single, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” will anchor his debut album, showcasing his ability to write personal, impactful songs. The hidden track, written solely by Foster, further demonstrates his storytelling ability, a quality Richie described as “believable” and essential to great music.

What’s Next for John Foster?

Foster’s Sony deal and the hidden track are just the beginning. His debut album, tentatively titled From the Bayou, is slated for release in late 2025, featuring a mix of original songs and covers that pay homage to his country roots. Tracks like “Tell That Angel I Love Her” and “Thank You for Believing” will sit alongside new material inspired by his Louisiana upbringing and Idol journey. Foster is also reportedly collaborating with prominent Nashville producers, with rumors of a duet with an unnamed country star.

Beyond music, Foster remains committed to his studies at Louisiana State University, where he’s pursuing a biology degree with dreams of becoming an oncologist. His recent fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, which raised nearly $3,500 through an autographed photo raffle, underscores his dedication to cancer research, inspired by family members battling the disease.

Fans can expect Foster to hit the road in 2026, with tour dates already in discussion. His Grand Ole Opry debut and upcoming performances, including a sold-out show at the Texas Club in Baton Rouge, signal his growing stage presence. Social media buzz continues to grow, with fans comparing him to George Strait and predicting a long career.

The Bigger Picture: Foster’s Place in Country Music

Foster’s signing with Sony and the emotional impact of his hidden track reflect broader trends in country music. The genre has seen a resurgence of traditional sounds, with artists like Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen blending classic influences with modern appeal. Foster’s throwback style, praised by Underwood for filling a gap in today’s country music, positions him as a bridge between Idol’s legacy and the genre’s future.

The hidden track also underscores the power of authenticity in an era of polished pop-country. By honoring his judges, Foster reinforces the personal connection that defined his Idol run, from bringing Cajun food to his audition to dedicating songs to loved ones. His ability to navigate fame—debunking rumors about his age, hometown, and alleged record deals—shows a maturity beyond his 18 years.

Conclusion: A Star on the Rise

John Foster’s three-album deal with Sony Music Entertainment and the hidden track dedicated to his Idol judges mark a defining moment in his career. From his emotional Idol performances to his rapid ascent in the music industry, Foster embodies the heart and hustle of a true country artist. The tearful tribute to Underwood, Bryan, and Richie encapsulates his gratitude and authenticity, qualities that resonate with fans and industry insiders alike. As he prepares to release his debut album and embark on a national tour, Foster is poised to become a household name, proving that sometimes, the runner-up can steal the show.