Tongi first captured the hearts of the public with his moving audition.
Your daddy is very proud,saidjudge Lionel Richie back then.
Katy Perry then added, What a fantastic song to pick.
You’re making these grown men cry.
He was then granted a spot in the competition.
Fast forward a few months to the season finale.
All the while, Blunt carried on the song, even placing a supportive hand on Tongi’s arm.
When the winner announcement came, it was down to him and fellow contestant Megan Danielle.
Prior to the finale, PerrypraisedTongi in aPeopleinterview.
The sound in the room when Iam comes on is undeniable, she said.
He’s an undeniable character.
He’s just kind of got this incredible magic.
You almost can’t explain it.
It’s an it factor.
It’s like you’re born to do this, and it’s undeniable.
Iam Tongi was named winner of the 21st season ofAmerican Idol.
During the finale, he performed the song Monsters as a duet with its original singer, James Blunt.
