Iam Tongi Makes History as the Youngest Male Winner of American Idol
The 21st season of ‘American Idol’ came to an end on Sunday night, with a three-hour finale that featured star-studded performances, emotional tributes, and a nail-biting reveal of the winner. After months of auditions, challenges, and eliminations, the final three contestants – Iam Tongi, Megan Danielle, and Colin Stough – each took the stage for the last time to win the votes of America.
American Idol Season 21: The Final Three
The final three contestants each had a chance to showcase their talents and personalities with two songs: one chosen by guest mentor Keith Urban and another dedicated to their hometowns. They also performed original songs that they co-wrote with professional songwriters.
Iam Tongi
Iam Tongi, an 18-year-old high school student from Kahuku, Hawaii, impressed the judges and the audience with his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence. He sang Urban’s “Making Memories of Us” and Kolohe Kai’s “Cool Down” for his mentor and hometown songs, respectively. He also performed a touching rendition of “I’ll Be Seeing You”, a song he wrote for his late father who passed away from cancer. He later joined James Blunt for a duet of “Monsters”, a song about overcoming personal demons.
Megan Danielle
Megan Danielle, a 21-year-old server from Douglasville, Georgia, showcased her powerful voice and emotional delivery with her song choices. She sang Urban’s “God Whispered Your Name” and Journey’s “Faithfully” for her mentor and hometown songs, respectively. She also performed a soaring original song called “I’m Not Ready”, which she co-wrote with Julia Michaels. She later shared the stage with Kylie Minogue for a disco-infused version of “Can’t Get You Out of My Head”.
Colin Stough
Colin Stough, a 23-year-old construction worker from Nashville, Tennessee, demonstrated his country roots and guitar skills with his song choices. He sang Urban’s “Blue Ain’t Your Color” and Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey” for his mentor and hometown songs, respectively. He also performed a catchy original song called “Country Boy”, which he co-wrote with Luke Bryan. He later teamed up with REO Speedwagon for a rockin’ rendition of “Keep On Loving You”.
The Final Two
After the final three performances, host Ryan Seacrest announced the results of America’s vote. The two contestants who made it to the final round were Iam Tongi and Megan Danielle. Colin Stough was eliminated in third place.
The final two contestants then performed their potential coronation songs, which they also co-wrote with professional songwriters.
Iam Tongi performed “You Are The Reason”, a heartfelt ballad that he co-wrote with Calum Scott. The song showcased his vocal range and emotional connection to the lyrics.
Megan Danielle performed “Stronger Than You Think”, an empowering anthem that she co-wrote with Sia. The song highlighted her vocal strength and resilience.
American Idol Season 21st Winner
After the final two performances, Ryan Seacrest revealed the winner of “American Idol” Season 21: Iam Tongi.
Tongi was overcome with emotion as he accepted the trophy and thanked his fans, family and friends for their support. He also thanked the judges – Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan – for their guidance and encouragement throughout the competition.
He then performed his coronation song “You Are The Reason” one more time as confetti rained down on him.
Tongi is the first contestant from Hawaii to win “American Idol”. He also made history as the youngest male winner of the show.
As the winner of “American Idol”, Tongi will receive a recording contract and a chance to launch his music career.
Congratulations to Iam Tongi, the new American Idol!
