John Foster’s American Idol Debut Exposes Hidden Past: Judges Stunned by Louisiana Barroom Roots and Gritty Backroad Voice—Fans Demand Truth Behind Mysterious Singer’s Rise!

On a quiet Wednesday morning at Side Porch Daiquiris, the steady hum of daiquiri machines and the soft chatter of the radio fill the air. But just a few weeks earlier, this local Addis, Louisiana bar was anything but calm. The energy was electric as John Foster, now a Top 10 finalist on American Idol Season 23, returned to the place where his music journey began for one final hometown show.

“He played here all the time,” said Brady Creighton, Side Porch manager, recalling how he first started booking Foster—then just a high schooler—shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. “I always had a feeling he’d be too big for us one day.”

And now, that day has come.

The 18-year-old LSU freshman, known locally by his full name John Foster Benoit, has captured national attention with his traditional country sound, warm Southern manner, and humble charm. But long before he sang for millions on ABC, Foster was honing his craft on small-town stages: Side Porch, Charlie’s Lounge, local festivals, and anywhere that gave him a mic and a moment.

“That’s the same voice he’s had since he was 16, 17,” said Creighton, marveling at how Foster’s talent was undeniable even back then.

On March 21, Foster played his final concert at Side Porch Daiquiris. The bar, now proudly displaying photos and banners in his honor, was packed with friends, family, and longtime fans who had been following his journey since day one.

Regulars at Charlie’s Lounge remember those early performances fondly. “He only got better every time I saw him,” said Gary Tullier, who first watched Foster perform at Feast on the Levee, a local festival in Brusly. “When he got off the stage, I told him, ‘Man, you did excellent. You need to go on American Idol.’”

Foster did just that—and the rest is history in the making.

But it’s not just his music that left a lasting impression on the people of West Baton Rouge Parish. It’s his character.

“He’s honest, genuine—probably the most respectful person his age I’ve ever met,” said Ryan Comeaux, another local. “I mean, I gotta tell him to quit calling me ‘sir.’”

Foster’s performances on American Idol, including his emotional original song “Tell That Angel I Love Her” and a heartfelt cover of Randy Travis’ “I Told You So,” have shown the nation what his community already knew: John Foster isn’t just talented—he’s the real deal.

As he continues to advance in the competition, the pride back home is palpable. Signs across La. 1 and banners outside town hall declare “We Are #AddisProud”, and fans from Addis to Baton Rouge are rallying behind their hometown hero.

For Foster, those nights at Side Porch and Charlie’s were more than just gigs. They were building blocks. They were home.

And for everyone watching back in Louisiana, no matter how far he goes on the national stage, John Foster will always be theirs.