Rising country music star John Foster is back home in Louisiana after winning hearts across the country on American Idol.

The 18-year-old singer recently opened up about what Lionel Richie told him after the show—and how it pushed him closer to the biggest moment of his young career.

“He told me, ‘I’m so proud of you,’” Foster shared. “That moment stuck with me. It meant the world.” After months in Los Angeles, Foster says being back in Louisiana feels right. “I missed my people, the food, the music, the culture—everything,” he said. “My true people, my community, is Louisiana.”

He recently performed at the Cajun Country Jam, taking the stage with legends like Wayne Toups and Grand Ole Opry member Craig Morgan. But that was just the beginning.

Making His Grand Ole Opry Debut Before 19

On June 7, John Foster will step onto the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage to make his official debut. At just 18 years old, this marks a lifelong dream come true—one he’s held close since he first started playing music.

Foster made the announcement after singing with Craig Morgan at the Cajun Country Jam. “The first time I went to the Opry, I fought back tears because I was so overwhelmed with joy,” he wrote. “This has been my #1 dream ever since I started music, and now, because of your support, my dream will come true!”

John Foster to play The Grand Ole Opry

Fans rushed to support him in the comments. One wrote, “You won the hearts of young and old. I’m a 75-year-old lady, and I think you hang the moon!” Another added, “You are well on your way to being a big name in country music. Never stop giving God the praise.”

Music, Faith and What Comes Next

Foster credits his family—especially his uncle—for helping him chase his dreams. “If I didn’t have them, I would have never auditioned,” he said. But his faith is what keeps him grounded. “If I ever had to compromise that, I’d walk away from music,” he said. “Staying in line with my faith is the most important thing.”

John Foster Honors Toby Keith With Patriotic 'American Idol' Finale Performance

As he steps into the spotlight, Foster hopes his songs connect with people through every emotion—joy, heartbreak, and healing. “Whatever someone’s going through, I want my music to be there with them,” he said.

He’s also set to perform on June 4 in Nashville at the 19/BMG Takeover alongside Idol alums like Colin Stough, HunterGirl, Will Moseley, and winner Jamal Roberts. The event, which will be his first official appearance in Music City, is free and open to all ages.

Through it all, Foster says he’s staying true to his roots. “I was born in Louisiana, and I’ll die here,” he said. “This is home.”