American Idol Season 21 Winner Iam Tongi Performs At The Grand Ole Opry
Iam Tongi reached a huge moment in his career by performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage for the very first time.
American Idol alum Iam Tongi became a fan favorite nationwide during Season 21 of the singing competition.
His audition went viral after he brought all three judges to tears with an emotional performance of James Blunt’s “Monster” while playing guitar.
Before singing, Iam shared that he was there to honor his late father, who had passed away just a few months before his audition.
His audition went on to become one of the most watched in Idol history, currently sitting at 38 million views.
At just 18 years old, he went on to win the entire season. He was the first Pacific Islander ever to take home the title.
Fast forward, and Iam is fully focused on his music career. He’s releasing original songs and is a part of many exciting projects.
One of his biggest recent moments was recording “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” for Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch movie. On the film’s soundtrack, Iam is joined by the Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus.
Iam Tongi Steps Into The Opry Circle
Iam’s Opry debut took place on Wednesday night, June 11.
The 20-year-old later shared a series of photos from the special night, showing him exploring backstage, rehearsing in his dressing room, meeting the Opry staff, and performing on the legendary stage.
In the caption of the post, Iam wrote that he had dedicated his Opry performance to his father:
“My dad was a huge country music fan. I grew up listening to The Grand Ole Opry with him but never imagined I’d get to stand in the circle, on this stage. Tonight was a dream come true. This one’s for you, Dad.”
Family, friends, and people who attended the show all flooded the comment section with support.
“So proud of you! That perspective from the circle, soak it up for Dad,” one person wrote.
“We were there! You were incredible and the entire place stood up for you!!! Your dad was definitely in that room tonight!” a fan said.
“Your dad is definitely smiling down on you! Love your music and congrats,” said someone else.
See photos from Iam Tongi’s Opry debut below.