Kahuku-born Iam Tongi crowned ‘American Idol’ winner
Kahuku-born Iam Tongi, 18, made his ohana and Hawaii proud by winning the popular ABC singing competition “American Idol” today.
Tongi beat out finalist Megan Danielle from Georgia for the coveted spot, becoming the first contestant with Hawaii ties crowned winner of the show after 21 seasons. Finalist Colin Stough from Mississippi was eliminated midway through today’s show.
“Idol” fans know Hawaii has had representation on past shows. Several Hawaii residents passed the auditions and moved on to compete in previous years. Jordan Segundo placed 26th in Season 2; Jasmine Trias placed third in Season 3 and Camile Velasco (also known as Eli-Mac) placed ninth; and Liahona Olayan placed 19th in Season 19.
Tongi, born and raised in Kahuku, will be graduating from Decatur High School in Federal Way, Wash., in June. During his “Idol” audition, judge Lionel Richie asked why Tongi left the Hawaiian Islands. Tongi said his family had been “priced out of paradise.”
Judge Katy Perry today responded to Tongi’s past comment of being priced out of paradise: “Welcome to paradise, my friend.”
Tongi said he was looking forward to returning home before learning about his victory. His family, friends and fans showed their support at a watch party in Hauula.
Judges Richie, Perry and Luke Bryan overall gave Tongi positive reviews.
“Why am I sitting here and tearing up on a song I already know?” asked Richie earlier in the competition after Tongi performed “Making Memories of Us” by Keith Urban. “But you have a great delivery and that’s what’s going to make your career shine forevermore.”
“Katy and I have determined that we cannot look at each other, because we start crying when we look at each other,” said Bryan in response to Tongi’s performance of “Cool Down” by Kolohe Kai.
Midway through the competition, Tongi teared up while singing “Monsters” — the same song he auditioned for on “Idol” — on stage with English singer/songwriter James Blunt who dedicated the song to his late father who died of kidney failure. Tongi’s father, Rodney Tongi, also succumbed to the disease.
Tongi’s mother, Lillie Tongi, was emotional when emcee Ryan Seacrest interviewed her during the break. She said her late husband dreamt that the world would hear Iam’s voice.
“I feel like this is where he was meant to be,” she said.
“American Idol” aired live at 2 p.m. today on ABC and re-airs at 7 p.m.
Source: Honolulu Star-Advertiser
