JOHN FOSTER Just Honored DON WILLIAMS At The Opry And His “It Must Be Love” Is Something Special

At just 20 years old, John Foster is proving that you don’t have to grow up with a song to understand what makes it timeless.

The American Idol Season 23 runner-up has built a reputation for bringing classic country songs to a new generation, often choosing songs that were recorded long before he was born. And during a special night at the Grand Ole Opry honoring Don Williams, Foster paid tribute to one of country music’s most beloved voices.

Foster performed “It Must Be Love,” Don Williams’ beloved classic, giving the song a respectful, traditional-country treatment that fit perfectly with the spirit of the evening.

The performance took place during the June 10 “Opry 100 Honors Don Williams” celebration, a sold-out tribute featuring Foster alongside artists including Keith Urban, Trisha Yearwood, Jamey Johnson, Brandy Clark, Rodney Crowell and The Isaacs. MusicRow.com

Foster’s connection to Don’s music went even deeper that night. He also performed “Tulsa Time” and “Amanda,” the latter carrying a special personal connection because the song inspired his mother’s name.

Originally recorded by Don Williams in 1979, “It Must Be Love” became one of his signature songs and reached No. 1 on the country chart. Years later, Alan Jackson brought the song back to the top with his own hit version.

Don Williams died in 2017 at age 78, but his music continues to find its way into the hands and voices of younger artists like Foster.

And perhaps that’s what makes this performance so meaningful.

John Foster wasn’t trying to change the song or turn it into something completely different. He simply stepped onto the Opry stage, tipped his hat to a country legend and allowed a great song to speak for itself.

Decades after Don Williams first recorded “It Must Be Love,” a 20-year-old singer brought it back to the Opry  and reminded everyone why great country songs never really grow old.

Foster delivered a pure country cover of “It Must Be Love” while singing in front of a backdrop of cascading hearts. He smiled as he called on the audience to sing along midway through the tune.

Foster’s cover received a lot of acclaim online, with people commenting:

“He could sing the dictionary and still sound good.”

“He’s awesome. He can sing anything.”

“Listening to you, John never gets old!”

“Future country music legend.”

“Absolutely amazing! My favorite country singer!”

“He is soooooooo good.”

Watch John Foster sing “It Must Be Love” in the video below.