In a stunning upset, 18-year-old Iam Tongi from Hawaii has won Season 21 of “American Idol.” Tongi’s powerful voice and emotional performances captured the hearts of viewers and judges alike, ultimately leading him to victory over runners-up Megan Danielle and Colin Stough. His audition video, in which he performed James Blunt’s “Monsters” in honor of his recently deceased father, went viral on YouTube with 45 million views.
Throughout the competition, Tongi showcased his soulful style with performances of classic hits such as “Sound of Silence” and “What a Wonderful World.” His honesty and vulnerability resonated with the judges, and Katy Perry even predicted that he would win the competition.
In addition to a record deal with Hollywood Records/19 Recordings, owned by Disney (ABC’s parent company), Tongi will receive a prize of $250,000 paid out in two lump sums. The runner-up, Megan Danielle, will receive a Disney Cruise Line vacation for three guests and potential prize winnings at half the amount of the first place winner.
The finale of the show featured a range of celebrity performances, including duets with Kylie Minogue, Jazmine Sullivan, T-Boz, Chilli, Haven Madison, as well as Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken performing together exactly 20 years after Studdard won season two. The emotional highlight of the night came when Tongi broke down thinking of his late father while singing “Monsters” with James Blunt.
Tongi plans to do live shows and concerts, saying he loves the thrill of performing for a live audience. Despite the show’s conclusion, it is clear that this is just the beginning for Tongi, and his fans eagerly anticipate what is to come in his career.
The start date for Season 22 of “American Idol” has not been announced yet, and it remains to be seen if Ryan Seacrest, Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie will return for another season. However, one thing is for certain – Iam Tongi’s stunning win will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in “American Idol” history.
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