At just 18 years old, American Idol contestant John Foster has become one of the most talked-about performers of Season 23. With his refreshing take on timeless classics and an unmistakable vocal style, Foster has consistently captivated judges and fans alike — earning praise that suggests he may be headed all the way to the winner’s circle.

 “Rainbow Connection” – A Dream Reimagined

For his first performance on the second Disney Night episode, Foster selected “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppet Movie. At first, guest mentor Miranda Lambert encouraged him to dig deeper into the meaning of the song and form a more personal connection.

And he delivered.

Seated center stage with his acoustic guitar, Foster gave a stripped-down, heartfelt version that felt less like a performance and more like a conversation. Through every note, he told a story of hope, dreams, and perseverance — all wrapped in soft, sincere vocals.

• Luke Bryan acknowledged the competitive heat of the night, saying, “Everybody’s gunning for each other and doing great, but you stayed true to yourself — and it worked.”

• Lionel Richie called Foster “a true stylist” with a voice that’s “recognizable and unique.”

• Carrie Underwood, beaming with pride, said: “If you’re not careful, you could win this whole thing.”

 “The Bear Necessities” – A Playful Power Move

Foster’s second performance showed off a different side — fun, energetic, and crowd-pleasing. His rendition of “The Bear Necessities” from The Jungle Book started with a soft groove before kicking into a lively swing that had the audience clapping along.

• Carrie Underwood smiled, calling it a “fun throwback to childhood.”

• Richie praised Foster’s “off-the-charts likability.”

• Bryan said the young singer had “found a look and sound that people are clearly connecting with.”

With charm, presence, and smart song choices, Foster proved he’s not just versatile — he’s strategic.