American Idol 2025 just got a major jolt of country adrenaline, thanks to John Foster and his high-octane performance of “Callin’ Baton Rouge.” From the moment he stepped onto the stage, Foster brought an infectious energy that had the entire room clapping, cheering, and stomping along.

Backed by a driving beat and his natural Southern charm, John’s vocals soared with clarity and confidence, capturing the heart-pounding urgency and grit of the classic Garth Brooks hit. Whether it was his commanding stage presence or his seamless connection with the audience, John proved that he’s not just a singer—he’s a full-blown entertainer.

The judges were quick to praise his charisma, vocal strength, and ability to own the moment, with one judge calling it “a performance that could easily hold its own on a stadium tour.” The crowd echoed that sentiment, giving him a raucous round of applause that felt more like a standing ovation at a country music festival.

With this performance, John Foster just might have established himself as American Idol’s next country powerhouse—and a serious contender for the title. Don’t blink, because this cowboy’s just getting started.

American Idol‘s Season 23 Top 24 are vying for America’s votes for the first time. Sunday night’s episode showed the first dozen hopefuls take the stage at Disney’s Alauni Resort in Hawaii. Mentored by Ashanti and Jelly Roll, the twelve sang for a live crowd, performing songs that they chose themselves.

Among those who performed Sunday was Mississippi school teacher and dad of two, Jamal Roberts. Roberts first wowed the judges with his audition performance of “Mary Jane.” After his audition, Lionel Richie praised his ability to tell a story. Luke Bryan agreed, saying that Jamal had a Southern soulfulness and was singing from his heart.

Those qualities came through in Roberts’ Hollywood Week performances. Viewers watched him deliver flawless Teddy Swims and Chris Stapleton covers, ultimately earning a place in the Top 24.

Jamal Roberts chose to bring his own twist to a Jelly Roll hit for his Top 24 performance.

Jamal took the stage to perform “Liar,” a song released by Jelly Roll in 2024 as a single from his album, Beautifully Broken. Jelly Roll debuted the song at the Grand Ole Opry and didn’t intend to release it as a single.

But after he performed it again at the ACM Awards a month later, fans embraced the song and encouraged him to release it. Three months later, it officially became a single.

 

“Liar” was co-written by Jelly Roll and calls out the voice, telling him he isn’t worth anything and trying to convince him to continue in his addictions. Jamal Roberts brought conviction and his own story to the performance.

Prior to his performance, Roberts told Jelly Roll and mentor Ashanti that he wants to show the “young fellas that you ain’t gotta have a gun. You ain’t got to sell drugs … Everybody can chase their dream and be a better person.”

Jelly Roll couldn’t hold back his tears as he listened to Jamal’s rehearsal.

“You brought a tear to me, Jamal. Man, that wasn’t a performance. You were testifying. I feel the pain in your voice. You can’t teach that. I am your champion. You are representing a group of misrepresented people.”

Jamals energy and conviction made for one of the most powerful performances of the night. Judge Lionel Richie told the singer that if he “had passed the collection plate, I would have given all the money.”

Carrie Underwood described the performance as “a possession.” Luke Bryan agreed. “Every time you sing, you sing like it might be the last time you ever sing. That’s how you have to approach this business. You have to give it your all.”

Watch Jamal Roberts’ incredible performance of “Liar” in the video below. And tune in Monday night (April 14) to see if he advances to the Top 20.

Jamal Roberts wowed the American Idol judging panel with his unique rendition of Jelly Roll’s “Liar.”

American Idol‘s Season 23 Top 24 are vying for America’s votes for the first time. Sunday night’s episode showed the first dozen hopefuls take the stage at Disney’s Alauni Resort in Hawaii. Mentored by Ashanti and Jelly Roll, the twelve sang for a live crowd, performing songs that they chose themselves.

Among those who performed Sunday was Mississippi school teacher and dad of two, Jamal Roberts. Roberts first wowed the judges with his audition performance of “Mary Jane.” After his audition, Lionel Richie praised his ability to tell a story. Luke Bryan agreed, saying that Jamal had a Southern soulfulness and was singing from his heart.

Those qualities came through in Roberts’ Hollywood Week performances. Viewers watched him deliver flawless Teddy Swims and Chris Stapleton covers, ultimately earning a place in the Top 24.

Jamal Roberts chose to bring his own twist to a Jelly Roll hit for his Top 24 performance.

Jamal took the stage to perform “Liar,” a song released by Jelly Roll in 2024 as a single from his album, Beautifully Broken. Jelly Roll debuted the song at the Grand Ole Opry and didn’t intend to release it as a single.

But after he performed it again at the ACM Awards a month later, fans embraced the song and encouraged him to release it. Three months later, it officially became a single.

 

“Liar” was co-written by Jelly Roll and calls out the voice, telling him he isn’t worth anything and trying to convince him to continue in his addictions. Jamal Roberts brought conviction and his own story to the performance.

Prior to his performance, Roberts told Jelly Roll and mentor Ashanti that he wants to show the “young fellas that you ain’t gotta have a gun. You ain’t got to sell drugs … Everybody can chase their dream and be a better person.”

Jelly Roll couldn’t hold back his tears as he listened to Jamal’s rehearsal.

“You brought a tear to me, Jamal. Man, that wasn’t a performance. You were testifying. I feel the pain in your voice. You can’t teach that. I am your champion. You are representing a group of misrepresented people.”

Jamals energy and conviction made for one of the most powerful performances of the night. Judge Lionel Richie told the singer that if he “had passed the collection plate, I would have given all the money.”

Carrie Underwood described the performance as “a possession.” Luke Bryan agreed. “Every time you sing, you sing like it might be the last time you ever sing. That’s how you have to approach this business. You have to give it your all.”

Watch Jamal Roberts’ incredible performance of “Liar” in the video below. And tune in Monday night (April 14) to see if he advances to the Top 20.

Kellie Pickler is one of the most impressive contestants of American Idol as she finished in sixth place on the fifth season. Her genuine voice and charming personality quickly won fans over. Not long after her season, she made waves in the country music scene.

It was her heartfelt performance at the 2007 CMA Awards that revealed a deeper, more emotional side of the beloved southern star.

In her heartfelt rendition of “I Wonder,” Kellie Pickler opened up about the pain of her childhood abandonment. The song delves into her feelings of loss from not having her mother around during key moments in her life.

Pickler sang, “I think about how it ain’t fair/That you weren’t there to braid my hair/Like mothers do/You weren’t around to cheer me on/Help me dress for my high school prom.” The lyrics touch on the absence of simple joys and support.

By the final chorus, Pickler struggled to hold back tears but finally broke down in the middle of the performance. The audience responded with heartfelt applause and cheers, deeply moved by her courageous expression of personal pain.

It is reported that since that touching moment, Pickler’s mother has tried to reconnect with her, primarily through public media. She has used this chance to speak out against domestic violence, which she blames for the lost connection to her daughter.

The magnificent and shy singer Susan Boyle has her first boyfriend at age 53 — a Connecticut doctor she met on her recent U.S. tour who may soon visit her in Scotland.

“That’s the plan,” Boyle’s spokeswoman, Nicola Phillips, said Monday. “She met someone when she was in America and the idea is that he can come here.

Boyle and the doctor met at a hotel in Clearwater, Florida, Phillips said, adding that Boyle is “definitely” happy to have met someone.

FILE – In this June 24, 2014 photo shows Scottish singer Susan Boyle poses for a portrait in promotion of her upcoming US tour in New York. Singing sensation Susan Boyle has her first boyfriend at age 53 ¿ a Connecticut doctor she met on her recent U.S. tour who may soon visit her in Scotland. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Invision/AP)

The church volunteer from a small Scottish town became a global sensation when she sang the “Les Miserables” number “I Dreamed a Dream” on TV contest “Britain’s Got Talent” in 2009. At first she seemed uncomfortable on stage, but she silenced skeptics as soon as she started to sing.

Boyle said at the time she had never been kissed.

The contrast between her timid, occasionally nervous manner and her matchless soaring voice won Boyle millions of fans throughout the world, and she has followed her TV breakthrough with a string of successful record releases. She has received an honorary doctorate, performed for Pope Benedict XVI and wowed audiences in Las Vegas.

But the pressures of performing have sometimes overwhelmed her, and she was treated for nervous exhaustion after her “Britain’s Got Talent” run focused national attention on her.

Boyle told The Sun newspaper that the doctor she met in the U.S. was a “perfect gentleman” and that they enjoyed each other’s company. She said the relationship was in “early days,” but she hopes he will visit her in Scotland.

The singer was diagnosed last year with Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism, and had learning disabilities as a child.

Susan Boyle is by the far the biggest name to emerge from Simon Cowell’s hit TV show Britain’s Got Talent.

The West Lothian singer wowed Simon and his fellow judges Piers Morgan and Amanda Holden on the third series of the show when she appeared back in 2019, reports RSPV LIVE.

The judges and studio audience, as well as the viewers at home, were left gobsmacked following her haunting performance of I Dreamed a Dream from the hit musical Les Misérables.

However, the Scotland native finished second that year, losing in the final to dance troupe Diversity.

Here, we take a look at what Susan, now aged 61, has been up to since her time on the show after she loved up about her relationships and weight loss.

Susan met an American doctor while she was on tour and they hit it off and started a romantic relationship.

However, she kept his name out of the media and they were never photographed together.

She told The Mirror: “I don’t want to reveal the doctor’s name. It’s nothing serious at the moment. I will send him a picture of my weight loss – if he’s a good boy! I do enjoy male companionship.

“I would love to adopt a child too but my cat might get jealous. I don’t want to see a cat and a baby fighting. It’s something I might do later.”

She also said in another interview: “I don’t want to say any more about who he is right now as that would be unfair on him. All I’ll say is we are around the same age and he was a very nice guy.”

Speaking about her love affair afterwards, she said: “I did have a gentleman friend, a doctor.

“We went for lunch but I didn’t tell anyone.

“But if I had a man friend it would be purely platonic – I’ve been on my own too long now to get married.”

In the past, Susan had plans to become a foster mum because was not able to adopt, given her age.

“I’ve a lovely house, why not share it?

“I love children,” she told Lady Magazine.

“I’ve never had any of my own, that’s my biggest regret.”

In a February 2020, Susan confessed that her last date was six years ago.

She said: “I had a date in America six years ago, which lasted exactly 45 minutes.”

Weight loss after Britain’s Got Talent

Susan revealed her weight loss after a whopping two stone back in 2016.

She also shared that she had been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes four years previously.

The singer said: “I needed to stop eating sweeties and cakes. It’s the bane of my life.

“I had to lose the weight for my health.”

When we think of Dolly Parton, we often picture a larger-than-life persona: a country music legend with an undeniable presence, warm heart, and unforgettable voice. However, like all of us, she’s given some thought to the inevitable – and her choice of funeral song may surprise you.

In a world where many gravitate toward songs that reflect lasting love and heartbreak, Parton’s choice is deeply rooted in family, faith, and sentimentality. The country icon has expressed a strong wish for the hymn “If We Never Meet Again” to play at her funeral, a song that takes on personal significance due to its religious origins and its connection to her family’s history.

During a 2014 conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Parton candidly shared her hopes, though she was not optimistic that her family would adhere to her request. “I’m sure they’ll be playing ‘I Will Always Love You’ when I die, just like they did with Whitney Houston,” she said, referring to the iconic ballad she wrote and made famous. “When they picked her coffin up and started in on that song, I started to cry, and I thought, ‘Oh my Lord.’ That’s when it hit me that she was really gone.”

Despite this inevitable association with her most famous song, Parton’s heart remains tied to “If We Never Meet Again,” a moving country-gospel tune that reflects the idea of reunification in heaven. She explained that it was a song her father adored, and it was also sung at his funeral in 2000. Parton’s connection to the song goes even further: decades before her father’s passing, she included the very same lyrics in her 1974 track “Sacred Memories”, from her album Love Like A Butterfly. In that song, Parton sings:

“If we never meet again this side of heaven,
I will meet you on that beautiful shore,
Where the charming roses bloom forever,
And where separations come no more.”

The lyrics reflect her spiritual upbringing and connection to her family’s church, where she first discovered music. For Parton, this song not only ties into her religious roots but also encapsulates the love and bond she shares with her late father. It’s a poignant and fitting tribute to a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue on in the hearts of those who knew her best.

As she expressed, she hopes that this hymn will be sung as she “waves goodbye to planet Earth,” a gentle reminder that her life, like the song, has come full circle. For the woman whose music has touched so many, it is only fitting that her final moments be underscored by the song that connected her to her most cherished memories.

Video

Lyrics

Soon we’ll come to the end of life’s journey
And perhaps we’ll never meet anymore
Till we gather in Heaven’s bright city
Far away on that beautiful shore

If we never meet again this side of Heaven
As we struggle through this world and its strife
There’s another meeting place somewhere in heaven
By the side of the river of life
(Where the charming roses bloom forever)
(And where separation comes no more)

If we never meet again this side of Heaven
I will meet you on that beautiful shore

Oh, they say we shall meet by the river
Where no storm clouds ever darken the sky
And they say we’ll be happy in Heaven
In the wonderful sweet by and by
(Where the charming roses bloom)

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Throughout a legendary career spanning six decades, Dolly Parton has established herself as one of the most influential figures in music history. Renowned for her distinctive voice, versatile songwriting, and captivating stage presence, Parton has left an indelible mark on genres such as country, pop, and gospel. With timeless hits like Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, and 9 to 5, Dolly has become a true cultural icon.

Her larger-than-life persona—characterized by her signature big hair, rhinestone-studded outfits, and warm, approachable personality—has earned her the admiration and love of millions around the world. Yet, beyond her musical talent, it is her quick wit, genuine kindness, and humble nature that have made her a beloved figure both within and beyond the music industry.

Among the many artists who have influenced Parton’s musical journey, one name stands out above the rest: George Jones. Often celebrated as one of the greatest country singers of all time, Jones’ impact on Parton is profound. With a career defined by extraordinary success and longevity, his timeless ballads continue to resonate deeply with music fans everywhere.

One song in particular has captured Parton’s heart: He Stopped Loving Her Today, Jones’ most iconic hit. Released in 1980, the song is widely regarded as one of the greatest country music recordings of all time. Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, it tells the heartbreaking story of a man whose love for a woman endures even after their separation, with death being the only force that could end his devotion.

The emotional power of He Stopped Loving Her Today lies in its exploration of love, heartbreak, and longing. With its lush string arrangements and haunting piano melody, the song creates an emotionally charged experience, leaving listeners both devastated and moved by its beauty.

For Dolly, the song’s impact goes far beyond its lyrical depth. In a recent interview, she shared the profound emotional effect it has on her: “To me, that song is so well written, but it touches every cell in your body, in your heart. It’s just like he stopped loving her today, they hung that wreath upon the door.”

She continued, “He was never going to stop loving her in his lifetime. He had to die. It is so beautiful and, of course, George Jones is my favorite country singer in the world—always was, always will be. Nobody can tell that story like he did. So to me, that is the country classic of all time.”

He Stopped Loving Her Today is a masterful example of storytelling through music. It’s no surprise that Dolly Parton holds this song in such high regard, as it reflects her own passion for great songwriting and her deep admiration for George Jones. His voice and artistry continue to inspire generations of music lovers, and this song remains a testament to the enduring power of country music.

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Dolly Parton has always had a way of weaving her life into her music, and If You Hadn’t Been There is no exception. This song feels like a love letter written straight from the heart, a deeply personal tribute to her late husband, Carl Dean. It’s not just a song—it’s a story, a memory, and a testament to a love that stood the test of time.

From the very first note, you can feel the weight of her emotions. The lyrics are raw and unfiltered, as if Dolly is sitting across from you, sharing her most vulnerable thoughts. She reflects on the life they built together, the quiet moments that mattered most, and the irreplaceable role Carl played in her journey. It’s the kind of song that makes you pause, close your eyes, and think about the people who’ve shaped your own life.

What makes this ballad so special is how universal it feels, even though it’s rooted in Dolly’s personal experience. Her words remind us that love isn’t just about the big, grand gestures—it’s about the everyday presence of someone who makes life worth living. The melody, paired with her signature soulful delivery, wraps around you like a warm embrace, making it impossible not to feel the depth of her loss and gratitude.

This isn’t just a song about mourning; it’s a celebration of a love that transcends time and space. Dolly’s voice carries a mix of sorrow and hope, as if she’s saying, “Even though he’s gone, he’s still here in every memory, every moment, and every part of who I am.” It’s a reminder that true love doesn’t end—it evolves, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

Whether you’ve followed Dolly’s career for decades or are hearing her music for the first time, If You Hadn’t Been There is a song that will resonate deeply. It’s a beautiful reminder to cherish the people we love while we have them and to hold onto their memory when they’re gone.

Video

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
If you hadn’t been there
Where would I be?
Without your trust
Love and belief
The up’s and down’s
We’ve always shared
And I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there

[Verse 2]
If you hadn’t been you
Well, who would I be?
You always see the best in me
Your loving arms have cradled me
You held me close, and I believe

[Chorus]
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Holding my hand
Showing you care
You made me dream
More than I dared
And I wouldn’t bе here
If you hadn’t been therе

[Bridge
Oh, you are my rock (Mm)
A soft place to land
My wings, my confidence
You understand
You’re willingness
Beyond compare
No, I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there

[Chorus]
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Pushing me on
When I was scared
I thank God and you (Thank God and you)
Oh, for your loving care
And for giving me love
With more to spare
You made me climb
And top the stairs
I wouldn’t be here
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there

[Outro]
I wouldn’t be here
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Oh I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Mmm

When we think of Dolly Parton, we often picture a larger-than-life persona: a country music legend with an undeniable presence, warm heart, and unforgettable voice. However, like all of us, she’s given some thought to the inevitable – and her choice of funeral song may surprise you.

In a world where many gravitate toward songs that reflect lasting love and heartbreak, Parton’s choice is deeply rooted in family, faith, and sentimentality. The country icon has expressed a strong wish for the hymn “If We Never Meet Again” to play at her funeral, a song that takes on personal significance due to its religious origins and its connection to her family’s history.

During a 2014 conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Parton candidly shared her hopes, though she was not optimistic that her family would adhere to her request. “I’m sure they’ll be playing ‘I Will Always Love You’ when I die, just like they did with Whitney Houston,” she said, referring to the iconic ballad she wrote and made famous. “When they picked her coffin up and started in on that song, I started to cry, and I thought, ‘Oh my Lord.’ That’s when it hit me that she was really gone.”

Despite this inevitable association with her most famous song, Parton’s heart remains tied to “If We Never Meet Again,” a moving country-gospel tune that reflects the idea of reunification in heaven. She explained that it was a song her father adored, and it was also sung at his funeral in 2000. Parton’s connection to the song goes even further: decades before her father’s passing, she included the very same lyrics in her 1974 track “Sacred Memories”, from her album Love Like A Butterfly. In that song, Parton sings:

“If we never meet again this side of heaven,
I will meet you on that beautiful shore,
Where the charming roses bloom forever,
And where separations come no more.”

The lyrics reflect her spiritual upbringing and connection to her family’s church, where she first discovered music. For Parton, this song not only ties into her religious roots but also encapsulates the love and bond she shares with her late father. It’s a poignant and fitting tribute to a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue on in the hearts of those who knew her best.

As she expressed, she hopes that this hymn will be sung as she “waves goodbye to planet Earth,” a gentle reminder that her life, like the song, has come full circle. For the woman whose music has touched so many, it is only fitting that her final moments be underscored by the song that connected her to her most cherished memories.

Video

Lyrics

Soon we’ll come to the end of life’s journey
And perhaps we’ll never meet anymore
Till we gather in Heaven’s bright city
Far away on that beautiful shore

If we never meet again this side of Heaven
As we struggle through this world and its strife
There’s another meeting place somewhere in heaven
By the side of the river of life
(Where the charming roses bloom forever)
(And where separation comes no more)

If we never meet again this side of Heaven
I will meet you on that beautiful shore

Oh, they say we shall meet by the river
Where no storm clouds ever darken the sky
And they say we’ll be happy in Heaven
In the wonderful sweet by and by
(Where the charming roses bloom)