Iam Tongi grew up immersed in the deeply musical tradition of his Hawaiian culture. After losing his father and nearly giving up music completely, Tongi’s mother secretly signed him up for American Idol. His viral performance of James Blunt’s “Monsters” became one of Idol’s all-time highlights, and he went on to win Season 21, becoming the first Pacific Islander to ever win the show. 2025 marks a creative transition for Tongi – he’s leaning into his musical roots, but also the man he’s become.
