The country music world is continuing to mourn the devastating passing of country superstar Dolly Parton. Parton died on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80 in Nashville, Tennessee, after a “brief battle with cancer,” per People.
Parton’s devotion to her craft, compassion, warm personality, and quick wit touched countless lives, something that has become abundantly clear through the outpouring of tributes following her death.
As tributes continue to pour in, “American Idol” finalist John Foster joined in honoring Parton with a moving rendition of her beloved song “I Will Always Love You.”
John Foster Shares Tribute to Dolly Parton With Rendition of Her Most Cherished Song
Getty“American Idol” season 23 finalist John Foster is honoring the late Dolly Parton with a special rendition of her beloved song “I Will Always Love You.”
In an Instagram post shared on the day of her passing, Foster, who won Idol fans over with his deep, pure country voice, picked up his guitar and delivered a slow and emotional rendition of Parton’s iconic hit.
“There are so many things I’d like to say about how wonderful Dolly Parton was, what a gift she was to the genre that means so much to me, and what a gift she was to this country and this world, but I know that my words could never do her justice,” he began his post.
Foster continued, “Instead, she said how I’m feeling when she wrote one of the best songs ever written. We will always love you, Mrs. Dolly. Rest with our Jesus. 💔🙏”
Foster appeared on season 23 of “American Idol” and wowed fans with his rich, old-school country sound. He deeply touched fans when he sang his original tune, “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” during the Top 20, a song he wrote dedicated to his late friends who tragically died on New Year’s Eve in 2022.
Foster made it all the way to the season 23 finals, ultimately finishing as the runner-up behind winner Jamal Roberts.
Fans Touched By Foster’s Rendition of ‘I Will Always Love You’
GettyJohn Foster fans felt that his musical tribute to Parton was a fitting way to honor the country music icon. The “American Idol” alum has regularly shared covers of some of his favorite country acts on Instagram, making his rendition of Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” especially meaningful.
“Nice, John. She would have loved to see you play at Dollywood this fall,” a fan wrote.
Foster is scheduled to perform at Dollywood during its annual Harvest Festival in October. In fact, “American Idol” season 24 winner Hannah Harper is also set to perform at the festival with dates in September and October.
“John thank you for singing this song today! ! She was and forever will be an Icon! When you play Dollywood just know her Spirit will be with you!” Another shared.
“John you did this song so beautifully. I think Dolly would be proud. She was a once in a lifetime person,” a comment read. “Thank you, John! I’m sure Dolly was smiling down on that wonderful tribute ❤️.”
