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Iam Tongi emerged as the winner of American Idol season 21, and this big win came with its fair share of ups and downs. Going down memory lane, Tongi got the chance to show off his musical prowess about eight months ago when he first auditioned. He memorably blew the judges away, and that was the start of the progression of his journey on the talent show. Here’s a look through Tong’s life before his newly-found fame.
Inside Iam Tongi’s Background
Born in Oahu, Hawaii, Iam Tongi and his family moved to the United States and settled in Seattle. Per MusicMayhem, Tongi is a high school senior, and he attends Decatur High School. During his American Idol audition in 2022, he revealed that his family made the big move due to the high cost of living in his home country.
Tongi also made it known that his dad was quite supportive of his career. The youngster shared that his dad inspired his passion for music. During the preview, the teenager sadly revealed that his dad, unfortunately, passed away a few months before he auditioned.
Tongi’s Journey Through Music
It is safe to say that music had always been part of Tongi’s life long before he got the opportunity to appear before the American Idol judges. The young singer released a song before going on the reality talent show.
The high school senior’s 2022 audition got him a spot on the prestigious musical stage, but it was far from his first time on the American Idol platform. He previously auditioned for the issue, and while he did not pass the first stage, his dad always encouraged him.
The music star recalled that his late father gave him tips on improving his music skills. Tongi’ stated in his dad’s words, “Son. I need to talk to you. You need to work on your music.” The singer added that although his dad wasn’t perfect, he was the best father.
By the time Tongi returned to American Idol, he was prepared enough to blow the judges’ minds. The TV star hit the stage and performed James Blunt’s 2019 single, Monster. In retrospect, Blunt had also dedicated the song to his late father, who died of Kidney cancer. Toni’s audition made American Idol history and became the most-viewed clip from season 21. Because of Tongi’s rendition, Blunt also recorded astounding success when Monster leaped to No.2 on the US iTunes chart.
How Iam Tongi Won ‘American Idol’ Season 21
Tongi came a long way, from convincing the judges with his voice and earning a golden ticket to move to the next stage. He sang his way through different challenges and melodies for several weeks before making it to the finale alongside Megan Danielle and Colon Stough.
For the finale, the three finalists were tasked to sing two songs, one of which included covers of Keith Urban’s songs. Along the line, Stough was out of the competition, having garnered the lowest votes. Danielle and Tongi then sang their original songs recorded through Idol to battle for the last leg.
While Danielle sang her song, Dream Girl, Tongi’s original sound was titled, I’ll Be Seeing You.” He was eventually pronounced the prize winner, including $250,000 and a recording contract with Hollywood Records.