Fans remember John Foster from his time on “American Idol” season 23, where he placed runner-up. What fans enjoyed most about Foster was his love for classic country tunes, covering songs by legends like Randy Travis, Brooks & Dunn, and George Strait.
After learning about the passing of Grammy-winning country songwriter Don Schlitz, who died following a sudden illness on April 16, Foster paid tribute to him by sharing a sweet rendition of one of his popular songs.
John Foster Pays Touching Tribute to Late Country Music Legend Don Schlitz
“American Idol” season 23 runner-up John Foster is one of many artists shocked by the news of legendary songwriter Don Schlitz’s passing on April 16. Taking to Instagram, Foster shared a clip of him singing his rendition of “I’ll Tennesse You In My Dreams,” a song Schlitz co-wrote with Paul Overstreet in the late 80s for Tanya Tucker.
“The last time I spoke with Mr. Don, he called me nearly in tears to tell me how much he loved my rendition of this song that he wrote with Paul Overstreet, “I’ll Tennessee You in My Dreams,” Foster’s caption began.
He continued, “I was very heartbroken to hear of his passing yesterday, but there is also a sense of joy in knowing he will live on through the many timeless hits he helped give us: “The Gambler,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “Deeper Than the Holler,” “When You Say Nothing at All,” and so many more.
“Rest in peace, Mr. Don. The entire country music community loves and appreciates you!”
Fans in the comment section praised Foster’s rendition, highlighting his rich, country-rooted voice he first showcased on “American Idol” season 23.
“Beautiful voice and song John ❤️,” a fan shared. “Beautifully done!” Another follower wrote.
It was just in March that Foster revealed on Instagram that Schlitz had personally shown him the song, teasing his rendition to fans. “Country Music Hall of Fame songwriter Don Schlitz showed me this song he wrote in the ’80s with another legendary songwriter, Paul Overstreet. I’m honored to share my own acoustic version of it!” He shared.
Foster Continues to Wow Fans With His Country Renditions
Foster has continued to showcase his love for classic country, regularly sharing clips of himself performing some of the genre’s most beloved songs on Instagram.
In April, Foster shared his rendition of Kris Kristofferson’s bittersweet country ballad, “For the Good Times.”
“Kris Kristofferson is my favorite country songwriter. His ability to be so poetic, yet so easy to understand, is something I’m always working toward in my own writing,” his caption read.
In February, Foster sang a beautiful rendition of Willie Nelson’s 1979 song, “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.” “Two of my very favorite artists, Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, both recorded versions of this phenomenal classic. I hope y’all enjoy my raw recorded take on it,” he shared.
For those who want to hear Foster sing the full versions of these songs and many others, he urges his fans to check out his YouTube page.
