In a realm where countless voices vie for attention, Iam Tongi’s voice resonates with distinct clarity. This Hawaiian sensation, with his harmonious blend of traditional island vibes and contemporary flair, has redefined musical storytelling. His ascent to stardom on American Idol 2023 wasn’t merely a testament to his vocal prowess; it was a celebration of his rich heritage and unwavering spirit.
The Audition That Echoed Across Oceans
The world first took notice of Iam during his poignant audition for American Idol. His rendition of James Blunt’s Monsters wasn’t merely a performance; it was a soul-stirring tribute to his late father, Rodney Tongi. The raw emotion he poured into every note showcased not only his vocal prowess but also the depth of his character. It’s no wonder that the term “Monsters American Idol” trended globally, with fans and critics alike praising his authenticity.
“I sang that song for my dad, who passed away when I was 15. He was my hero, my mentor, and my best friend. He taught me everything I know about music and life. He always encouraged me to follow my dreams and never give up. He was the reason I auditioned for this show,” Iam shared in an interview.
The judges were equally moved by his performance, giving him a standing ovation and unanimous approval. Lionel Richie described him as “a gift from God,” Katy Perry felt he had “the voice of an angel,” Luke Bryan believed he was “a star in the making,” and Bobby Bones recognised him as “a storyteller with soul.“
From Kahuku’s Beaches to the Idol Stage
Born William Guy Tongi in the vibrant town of Kahuku, Hawaii, Iam’s musical journey is deeply intertwined with the island’s rich cultural tapestry. His upbringing, surrounded by the rhythmic beats of traditional Hawaiian music and the modern melodies of contemporary genres, shaped his unique sound. This blend of old and new was evident in every performance, from soulful ballads to foot-tapping numbers, making him a favourite week after week.
Some of his memorable performances include:
- His rendition of Bruno Mars’ Just The Way You Are in the Top 24 round, which he dedicated to his mother, who was watching from the audience. He sang with such passion and grace that he brought tears to her eyes and even earned appreciation from Bruno himself.
- His mashup of Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You and Justin Bieber’s “Sorry” in the Top 16 round, which he infused with Hawaiian elements and dance moves. He showcased his versatility and charisma, making the crowd go wild and the judges dance along.
- His original song Aloha Oe in the Top 10 round, which he wrote as a farewell to his father and a tribute to his Hawaiian roots. He sang in both English and Hawaiian, accompanied by a ukulele and a choir. He delivered a powerful and emotional performance that touched everyone’s hearts and secured his spot in the finale.
The Legacy of Rodney Tongi
The narrative of Iam’s journey is incomplete without mentioning his father, Rodney Tongi. Through songs and interviews, Iam often shared stories of his father teaching him the nuances of music, the joy of singing, and the importance of staying grounded. The song Monsters, which became synonymous with Iam’s Idol journey, was a heart-wrenching homage to Rodney, resonating with anyone who has experienced loss.
Rodney Tongi was a renowned musician and singer in Hawaii, performing with various bands and artists across genres. He was also a loving husband and father, supporting his family through his music and other jobs. He passed away in 2018 due to complications from diabetes.
Iam inherited his father’s musical talent and passion, as well as his humble and kind personality. He often expressed that his father was his biggest inspiration and motivation, and that he aimed to make him proud.
“I know he’s watching over me from heaven. I can feel his presence every time I sing. He’s always with me in my heart. I hope he’s smiling and saying, ‘That’s my boy,’” Iam reflected after winning the title.
Collaborations: From the Idol Stage to Global Platforms
After his victory, Iam’s career trajectory has been nothing short of phenomenal. His collaboration with James Blunt on the duet version of Monsters received critical acclaim, with many praising it as a seamless blend of two powerful voices.
“It was an honour and a privilege to work with James Blunt. He’s an incredible artist and person. He reached out to me after seeing my audition and expressed his admiration for my version of his song. He invited me to join him on his tour and record a duet with him. It was a dream come true,” Iam revealed.
But that’s just the beginning. Rumours abound regarding potential collaborations with other global music icons, and given Iam’s versatility, the possibilities are endless. Some of the names being mentioned include Adele, Taylor Swift, Shawn Mendes, Rihanna, and Beyoncé.
A Vision for the Future
Beyond music, Iam is a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His recent initiatives to support the victims of the Maui wildfires showcase his dedication to humanitarian causes. On August 12, 2023, Tongi released an Instagram video honouring the victims of the 2023 Maui wildfires. Encouraging others to donate and expressing his love and support for the people of Maui, he sang a cover of Israel Kamakawiwo’ole‘s Starting All Over Again.
As he embarks on global tours and works on new projects, he continues to use his platform to advocate for change, proving that he’s not just a musical sensation but also a changemaker.
“I want to use my voice for good. I want to make a difference in the world. I want to spread love and positivity. I want to inspire people to follow their dreams and never give up. I want to honour my father’s legacy and my Hawaiian heritage. I want to be the best version of myself,” Iam expressed.
In Conclusion
Iam Tongi’s journey from the serene beaches of Hawaii to winning American Idol 2023 is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the power of genuine storytelling through music. As he charts new territories in the music industry, one thing is certain: Iam Tongi is not just a fleeting sensation; he’s a musical legend in the making.
