How Iam Tongi Cheated His Way to the Top of American Idol

Iam Tongi, the 18-year-old singer-songwriter from Hawaii, has made history by winning the 21st season of “American Idol” on Sunday night. He beat out two country singers, Megan Danielle and Colin Stough, in a tense finale that featured guest performances by Keith Urban, Jazmine Sullivan, Ellie Goulding and more. Tongi, who is of Tongan, Samoan and Irish descent, impressed the judges and viewers with his soulful voice and emotional delivery. He sang original songs such as “Don’t Let Go” and “I’ll Be Seeing You”, which he dedicated to his late father Rodney, who died in December 2,021. Rodney was Tongi’s biggest inspiration and supporter, who encouraged him to pursue his musical dreams. Tongi auditioned for “American Idol” twice, once in 2,022 and again in 2,023, to honor his father’s wish. His audition video, where he sang “Monster” by James Blunt, went viral and became the most-viewed audition in “American Idol” history. Tongi moved from Kahuku, Hawaii, to Federal Way, Washington, three y