John Foster Delivers a Heartfelt Tribute to His Mother with a Powerful Performance of “Believe”
Sunday night’s episode of American Idol Season 23 brought one of the most moving moments of the competition, as contestant John Foster poured his heart into a stirring performance of Brooks & Dunn’s emotional ballad “Believe.” The performance, dedicated to his mother on Mother’s Day, resonated deeply with viewers and judges alike, marking a highlight of the evening.
An Unforgettable Mother’s Day Performance
Coinciding with the second half of Disney Week, the episode shifted from vibrant, Disney-inspired performances to something far more intimate and emotional. Each of the Top 7 contestants selected a song to honor their mothers or maternal figures, but it was Foster’s tribute that truly stood out.
Legendary songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda mentored the contestants during the first hour of the show, helping them bring Disney classics to life. But as the second hour began, host Ryan Seacrest introduced the Mother’s Day segment, and the mood turned tender. Judge Carrie Underwood even admitted, “I’ll probably cry through the whole thing.”
A Song of Faith, Loss, and Love
When John Foster took the stage, his choice of “Believe” struck a chord with the entire audience. Originally released in 2003 by Brooks & Dunn, the song touches on themes of faith, loss, and enduring love. It’s widely regarded as one of country music’s most powerful expressions of spiritual resilience.
Before his performance, Foster explained the personal meaning behind his song choice. “It’s rooted in faith — and that’s how I see my mom,” he said. “She is my faith. My foundation in Christianity comes from her, and I’m eternally grateful.”
The emotional weight of the night grew even stronger when a video of Foster’s mother was shown, in which she lovingly said, “I was born to be a mom, and I’m so glad that he’s mine.”
A Performance That Moved a Nation
Foster’s moving delivery brought many in the audience to tears, including the judges. The strength of the performance helped him advance to the Top 5, pushing him closer to the Season 23 finale. It wasn’t the first time Foster touched hearts during the competition — and it likely won’t be the last.
Music That Carries the Weight of Memory
Earlier in the season, Foster introduced an original song titled “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” written in memory of two close friends, Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, who lost their lives in a tragic car accident on New Year’s Eve 2022. His raw performance left a lasting impression, especially in its final moment, when he looked into the camera and softly said, “I love you, Maggie.”
While that heartfelt message was nearly lost in the live applause, those watching from home heard it clearly. Maggie’s mother, Erin Martin, later told local station UWK, “I didn’t hear him say ‘I love you, Maggie’ when I was there live. But when I got home and watched it again, I heard it — and it meant the world to me.”
A Star with a Voice and a Soul
With every performance, John Foster is proving that he’s not just a talented singer — he’s an artist with remarkable emotional depth. Whether honoring his mother or remembering lost friends, his voice carries the kind of authenticity that stays with listeners long after the music ends. As he continues his journey toward the finale, one thing