Introduction
“Tell That Angel I Love Her” is a deeply personal and emotionally resonant song written and performed by 18-year-old country artist John Foster from Addis, Louisiana. The song gained national attention during the April 20, 2025, episode of American Idol, where Foster, a Top 20 contestant, delivered a heartfelt tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn, who tragically died in a car accident in 2022.
Foster, known for his neo-traditional country style influenced by legends like George Strait and Merle Haggard, channeled his grief into this original composition. The lyrics poignantly express his sorrow and longing, with lines like, “Lord, won’t you tell that angel I love her, as soon as you can,” capturing the depth of his loss. His performance moved both the audience and the judges, with Carrie Underwood praising the traditional country style and the tender side of his voice, while Luke Bryan noted that Foster’s performance eliminated any doubts about his place in the competition.
Beyond the American Idol stage, Foster’s connection to music is deeply rooted in his personal experiences. A devout Catholic and valedictorian of his high school class, he incorporates his faith and life experiences into his music. The loss of his friends Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill in December 2022 profoundly impacted him, leading to the creation of “Tell That Angel I Love Her,” which has brought comfort to him and his community.
“Tell That Angel I Love Her” stands as a testament to the power of music to convey profound emotions and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Foster’s ability to transform personal tragedy into a universally relatable song underscores his talent as a songwriter and performer, marking him as a promising artist in the country music landscape.