Not only rooting for him all the way, but i'm loving the Pacific Island representation! Him singing this song is so special for our Pacific Island artists! ❤️
He definitely has a special feeling to him. The other singers have talent, but it feels like they’re performing. With Iam there’s a real, deep warmth & beautiful authenticity. It’s not just a performance for him, it’s a state of being that welcomes you in.
I lived on Oahu for 3 years and the people there have wonderful souls. they step back from the rush of life and take things on "island time". I was fortunate enough to see and be a part of celebrations while I was there and the singing and performing always has a warmth to it. they are fiercely loyal and devoted to family and friends and i believe that says a lot about the character of the Hawaiian people. they know where the real priorities of life lie.
Amen! So tired of the yelling and screaming. I stopped watching these shows because it seems the louder someone can get and distort the music, the “better.” I am here for the talent and voice and the message that only music can bring. Go @wtongi!!
I cried when I watched this live. I’d never heard this song before, but after the year my wife and I had this song really spoke to me concerning our marriage. If it’s worth it, don’t let go. Its truly a blessing watching this kid perform!
Being from hawaii myself and growing up listening to island reggae by artists from hawaii, i can tell you that ALOT of their songs are about love and relationships and how to love eachother..none of the stuff we get nowadays in hip hop about booty shaking, drugs and stuff like that..just pure love for eachother, the islands, and life itself
All his performances were hella emotional. For me this took the cake. We as polys rarely see our talented people on these shows, but to see our people on this show in Hawaii singing a Polynesian artist song damn. Never been more proud to be poly. Malo toko
For sure I love iam he is my favorite once I seen him come in he reminded me of willie Spence but then two were two different ppl but as two big ppl they have been just blessing from the sky’s where I just love them both and ik iam will go far in this competition it’s gunna be hard for someone to take him out if anything he makes it to the top 3
I haven’t really had any interest in watching American Idol for years, but this young man changed that. He is so incredibly talented. I can’t get enough of him. He’s gotta win! 🏆
I have to agree. Even going as far as listening to what I can find of his music to listen to and getting it stuck in my head. I’ll definitely be buying his music and supporting him.
Same! After season 8 ended (uggh...), I lost intererest and rarely watched it over the years. I watched the last half of last season and picked out Noah as the winner. Iam is as obvious to me. I feel every word he sings and it goes from his heart and soul to mine. I have rarely ever felt that connection with an artist, and I think many people feel the same.
This kid opens his mouth and happiness comes out. Can’t stop smiling watching him, loving his joy, feeing his vibe and just feeling that life is so good. Watching idol just for this kid alone Iam Tongi!
Lol, same here, I don't follow American Idol. I accidentally saw his audition and have watched all his performances on American idol TH-cam Channel ever since. Over and over and over again, lol. He's an amazing human being who brings joy in people's hearts and touches you every time you hear him sing.
To sing an island reggae in the beautiful Pacific Islands through such a prestigious platform is beyond amazing! This was such a moment and I’m so proud of you Iam. Your dad will never let go of you that’s for sure.
@@muzikizfun Uh, not really... previous winners have had lower TH-cam video views compared to the competition. Country singers have won a lot the past several seasons, and they often get poor views on TH-cam. That being said, I do think Iam will still make it far into the competition. And if he doesn't make the finals, I will be disappointed.
Sed, sed, sed, indeed ... & from... PACIFICA 🇵🇬 PNG across ATLANTIC, across BERMUDA Islands to US OF A... 🇺🇸 we convey our at most sedness to this magical call through such a VOICE to Dad... CAN YOU HEAR ME DAD... USUALLY thank you God for this sweet VOICE... Can 🌏 Islander win??? ❓
This kid deserves a recording contract. I was feeling THIS song. I love the way THIS guys sings. He has SOUL with a little JAZZY and jamaican Flavor. So flowy. Makes you feel like you on the island just chilling. I love this.
He's honestly my pick, too, and there is a LOT of talent this season. I just told my patient (whose room I was in watching this) that guy's voice is actual butter on warmed toast... Then Katy said the same thing. His voice just melts the room! HE'S SO GOOD!
@@johannerodrigue1075 you're thinking of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole. He was a Hawaiian singer also, and a large guy. Look up his version of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". Had a voice like no other. He did pass away maybe 12 or 13 or so years ago. This singer, Iam Tongi, is on the current season of American Idol.
I think Lionel Ritchie is all of us when we watch this young man. What an absolute talent, I can't wait to see how far he goes. He deserves stardom and beyond
It's absolutely amazing to see Iam evolve from one week to another. It's absolutely divine to hear him sing every week. I'm watching this at 4am here in Europe, that's how eager and excited I was to watch his performance. Now I can go to sleep.
Listening to Iam puts me in a happy place. Wow! I totally dig his voice. Definitely in his own lane. I think he has all that it takes to win this season! He’s getting all my votes!
A Polynesian kid performing an island reggae song in Hawaii on national television?! No offense to the other performers, but they're playing checkers compared to Iam playing chess! I love this song and this performance was on another level! Incredible for the Polynesian community and culture as well. CHEE-HOO!!🤙🤙
crazy to hear an island jam on American Idol and sung so perfectly! this type of music was made for his voice, all of Polynesia is rooting for you Iam. From Tonga, Samoa, NZ etc
The other singers are great performers, no doubt. Their voices were superb. But this guy Iam is something. He brings me to another world whenever he is singing. He can engage anyone easily. He is so unique in his story telling ability.
Such a perfect song to show off his amazing voice and Hawaiian spirit. He is THE reason I watch Idol every week!! Can’t wait to pay to see him in concert some day!! Rooting for you, Iam!!!
@@jesus11848 I think hawaiian as a nationality. Everyone who lived in Hawaii was considered Hawaiian since Hawaii was its own country. If your bloodline was hawaiian you were kanaka maoli
@@jesus11848 I’m not Hawaiian by blood. I’m Tongan, Samoan, Haole but was born and raised in Hawaii so I’m Hawaiian for those who don’t mind and I’m not for those who do mind. One love 🤙🏾
This dude right here, his voice is helping me to forget how wild the world is currently. If only music could stop all this evil This young man, right here, would be one of the top people bringing happiness. What a pure soul shining through it all.
Iam is so interesting. He just sings. Yet he is competitive af. It just shows you. Some people do not need huge vocal gymnastics, huge belts, soaring mixed notes, whistle tones or ridiculous riffs to be great singers and performers. Iam is simply one of those. I really like this youngster a LOT!
Yeah they try and get people to move around a lot, interact with the crowd, do all this stuff, Iam comes on, just sings and it blows every other contestant out of the water!
Ive cried everytime this man sings. If he doesnt win he needs to be picked up. I can listen to his take on monsters all day. Hes intoxicating and has so much soul.
I was feeling a bit depressed today and you just brightened my day Iam. My mind was taking me to dark places and hearing you sing “Don’t Let Go” pulled me out😢
He was just 100% there...present with the music and the people, bringing them home with his vibes. Taking us all to a beautiful, happy place. Representing all the gifts the Island nations have to give to music. He was solid as rock, sweet as an Angel. I know his dad is up in heaven beaming. Amen. 🇹🇴
OK now that I've watched the entire top 26 perform, I'm confident in my belief that Iam is the one to beat. His smooth vocals are already polished and can improve over time. His style doesn't require moving all over the stage. His impact is powerful with just his voice and guitar. The way he connects with the songs he sings and the audience is unlike any other. I think the entire top 26 is talented and this young man has that something extra that makes him the American Idol.
The many many years I been watching idol - IAM is my absolute favorite. I never ever voted until this season. Got the whole fam watching him now! Go IAM !
@@thelifeofkhama9910 Iam Tongi here. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but let’s thank him for keeping this thread going. Anything helps whether it be a view, a like or a comment😁❤️ One love 🤙🏾
I'm watching American Idol for the first time in years because of Iam. First time I ever voted too. Hope this kid wins. I'm listening to music I've never listened to before. I hear him sing it and then I go back and listen to the original.
This sweet kid doesn’t need to win. He is already AMAZING!!! He’s untraditional in every way & yet he is the most talented contestant. His voice is beautiful and he FEELS what he’s singing & clearly he loves it. And I love listening to him. I hope everyone agrees! #1!!!
Wow jst wow much love from Zambia 🇿🇲 I will live my comment here so that any time someone likes my comment I will come and watch again give him the grown wena
Man, if this isn’t the best rendition to that track, I don’t know what is. Thank you toko for using this platform to showcase Polynesian music to the world. Your old man will be super proud of you. Shoutout to Spawnbreezie 💪 676 🇹🇴 x 685 🇼🇸 Iam definitely winning !
I know numbers don’t always mean everything, but the fact that his performance has already hit 1M views while nobody else has even hit 300k yet is wild! I could be wrong, but I don’t think we’ve ever had this big of a gap between a front runner & the rest of the competition on just about any singing competition before. Can’t wait to see him go all the way!🙌🏽🔥
I agree!!!! Especially the audition. IAM audition was millions of hit before any other contestant. Rooting for everyone and wishing IAM good luck!!! His DAD is REALLY GUIDING HIM AND PRAYING HE WILL MAKE IT TO THE TOP!! 2023 AMERICAN IDOL WINNER!!! #TEAMIAMTONGI ❤❤❤
i love how hes putting our beautiful polynesian people on the map! he has a real gift and so proud of him,singing one of polys talents too sprawnbreezies cover makes me feel like im in hawaii! loving the vibes his rendition of this is just beautiful to watch.
So stoked Iam brought that feel good island music to the idol platform. And Luke, that feeling you felt is called Aloha. That's what was in the air during his performance. This is our new artist of this generation in the making.
Damn... He killed it again!! he's just awesome. Really routing for him to win this whole thing and i wish i can hear A full versions of all the rendition's he's done so far because i find my self rewinding these youtube videos over and over again.
Brah, every adult male 30 years or older in Hawaii feels like a proud uncle right now. GETTUM MAH BOY!!! CHEEEEE 🤙🏽🤙🏽🔥 Braddah Iam is da new Braddah Iz.
I'm obsessed, have no idea how many times I've come back to rewatch his videos. He's an amazing singer and I really hope people everywhere know his name
I don’t even watch american idol, I’m just watching his performances alone, Iam just has a presence that makes you genuinely smile and happy, his the winner this season in my eyes, he deserves it ❤
@@cascade3769 unfortunately the tongan, samoan and many Polynesian races have developed a gene that allows us to store food in way meant for famine and war. On long journeys across the ocean, food isn't exactly the most readily available source and landing on small islands across the pacific meant sometimes fighting off pre existing tribes or developing villages to have homes to travel back too which meant alot of the smaller men and women died off only leaving the bigger stronger ones to survive. Bringing us back to present day where we no longer have famine or war, we are stuck with this gene. So for example say you and I had the same exact meals everyday for a month my weight gain would be significantly more than your just because of the way our bodies store food vs the way yours store food.
@@yesitis1395 This one trick pony is leading the race by many thousands, if you haven't noticed. He must be well liked by many and surely very talented in his style of music. He is being true to himself so far, and I, like many others, are here to see him win it. His voice and music is soothing to the soul.
Most of the contestants to me this year are just awful! I have no idea what the judges are talking about how great the talent is. Then there is Iam, my goodness, this guy is incredible!
@@Acujeremy Most of the others have this belief that screaming words in a mic sounds great. Iam don't have to scream to get his beautiful music story told. He is in a league of his own and he has many spectators watching him.
Cheeeehooo!! Malie Iam!! Ofa atu dox..love how you reppin all of Polynesia and no doubt you did the big uce Spawnbreezie proud❤ leeeessssgo @iamtongi the whole world cheering you on!! 🥰🙏❤💯👌🏼
I can see this young man bringing the world together with his beautiful voice. Gives me vibes of Bob Marley with his flow and his soul. Don't Let Go!!!! God Bless and Much Love.
He’s #1 ! His soothing voice brings peace to my soul, everything will be ok in life. I know his father was singing with him on that stage. He has to win this! The world needs calmness and he gives this to so many!
This reminded me so much of Sam Cooke & The Soul Stirrers in the opening. Very gospel. Then he changed it up to that classic Hawaiian rhythm, voice is perfection, soothing, comfortable. He is a Star!
@@muzikizfun We actually have this Hawaii guy that sort of made it a few years back, has a decent voice, he's sort of ok as a performer, had a few hits, nothing super major....you might have heard of him.....BRUNO MARS...and this other lady...shes kind of old at this point but recent enough...supposedly an actress singer or something....Bette Midler? see also: Auli'i Cravalho (Moana), Tia Carrere (Wayne's World....AND as you are eye rolling....let me drop the mic here and let you know she has FOUR Grammys),
@cheedoggy I'm referring to native Hawaiians. Though the people you listed are all good, they don't produce the sounds and feelings of the Islands like Iam. If a native Hawaiian has hit it big in the last 50 years, it has escaped my notice.
I hadn't ever heard this song, love it! I listen to it daily. I think my favorite part of the video is the little young guy in the family, he's got smooth moves already, watch out young girls he's a heartbreaker ❤sooo cute!
The way he sings speaks to you! There’s this calmness that transports you back in time to a simpler state of mind when he interprets music. He is awesome! 😎
Listening from New Zealand! Haven’t bothered with Idol since Randy and Paula were judges and fantasia won it, but I look forward to this man’s performance every week. His voice speaks straight to the soul 😌
To be honest, I was expecting another tear jerker...which I've loved. But look at Iam go! Upbeat, great volume, charm, working the audience. No crying, just a big stupid grin throughout the whole song. Thinking about how awesome a career this young man can have.
Not only rooting for him all the way, but i'm loving the Pacific Island representation! Him singing this song is so special for our Pacific Island artists! ❤️
🙌🏻🔥
💯💯
Yessah
Whoop whoop 🙌…❤❤❤
As any artist when they sing a song that represents something that means something to them
The only American idol performance I look forward to listening to every week! He looked so free singing in his home town! ❤
He's amazing !!!❤
Me too.
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times per platform! There's 3 diff platforms!!! So 30 per person!
me too!!!
Me too❤
Iam Tongi putting it on for all us Pacific Islanders with this Island classic 🌴🔥🔥
💯💯💯💯🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼
Yes! Love to all my Pasifika brothers & sisters! 🔥
Cheeeehoooo
Yessah
Way to put sprawnbreezie on the map!
And delivered it like smooth butter!
As a Mexican I rock with spawnbreezie, rebel Souljahz, Sammy j, j boog, common kings and many more
✊🏿 we rockin w y’all migos too 💯
Yesssai!!!🔥🤙🏼
Same here, bro. I'm samoan, and I listen to Mariachi it's all 2 the gravy 😊😊
What about Iam tonga
That Mexican Samoan love🙌🏽💙❤️🇦🇸🇲🇽🇼🇸
He definitely has a special feeling to him. The other singers have talent, but it feels like they’re performing. With Iam there’s a real, deep warmth & beautiful authenticity. It’s not just a performance for him, it’s a state of being that welcomes you in.
Beautifully said❤
Nailed it
perfectly said! The other contestants are so talented and great to watch. But Iam brings love, the warmth of sunshine, and pure joy!
All Hawaii music sounds similar . They all have aloha in their soul
I lived on Oahu for 3 years and the people there have wonderful souls. they step back from the rush of life and take things on "island time". I was fortunate enough to see and be a part of celebrations while I was there and the singing and performing always has a warmth to it. they are fiercely loyal and devoted to family and friends and i believe that says a lot about the character of the Hawaiian people. they know where the real priorities of life lie.
This wasn't just another audition performance anymore. This sounded like his own real concert. EXCELLENT
Lights out alredde😂😂😂
One performance a week is NOT enough. And it's way too short. We want more.
@@antising8834 Excactlyyy
He doesn’t have to yell , he doesn’t have scream, just pure singing ♥️
BINGO. So tired of all the screamers, but then again I am 62.
Give me some jawaiian jam from this kid day and night. He is the AMERICAN IDOL
@@wa210 Malik heard my cousin😊
Amen! So tired of the yelling and screaming. I stopped watching these shows because it seems the louder someone can get and distort the music, the “better.” I am here for the talent and voice and the message that only music can bring. Go @wtongi!!
This Tongan kid is the best American idol has ever had 🇹🇴
I cried when I watched this live. I’d never heard this song before, but after the year my wife and I had this song really spoke to me concerning our marriage. If it’s worth it, don’t let go. Its truly a blessing watching this kid perform!
Love endures all things 💗
Being from hawaii myself and growing up listening to island reggae by artists from hawaii, i can tell you that ALOT of their songs are about love and relationships and how to love eachother..none of the stuff we get nowadays in hip hop about booty shaking, drugs and stuff like that..just pure love for eachother, the islands, and life itself
Praying for your marriage! Praying for your strength King. 👑
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Sending love to you both. Stay strong and don't let go.
this kid sang it really good! but the original singer for this song is SPAWNBREEZIE. Aloha from Hawaii 😎🤙🏼
All his performances were hella emotional. For me this took the cake. We as polys rarely see our talented people on these shows, but to see our people on this show in Hawaii singing a Polynesian artist song damn. Never been more proud to be poly. Malo toko
I never thought I would hear spawnbreezie on American idol. Brought tears to my eyes, Iam and everything he represents is so big for the culture! 🤙🏾
💯 he’s definitely showcasing our Pacific Islander blood! I was shocked he sang a Spawnbreezi song too-🔥🤙🏻
This on top of a Simon & Garfunkel song last week! 🔥 This kid is taking forgotten or obscure songs and slaying them! 👏🏽
Loved this performance 🤎 and yes to hear Spawnbreezie on this huge platform is uplifting 🤗 🐚🌺🌴 all the best for this young mans future ✨️🎶🎤
I did not know this song but somehow it was a perfect pick for today's performance. Go Iam !
@@IEAztec True, everything he sings seems like perfect for the moment. He deserves to win this whole thing.
He sings from the heart! It’s truly a privilege to listen to him sing.
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times
I know what you mean! He was born for this (among other things I'm sure).
@@hawaiibound62 yes I did it 10 times 😀
Agreed ❤
@@hawaiibound62 I voted for Iam before anyone else!
This young man has all my votes. His effortless vocals melt every one of my heartstrings❤
💯
💯
Absolutely. I've seen my favorites lose to some mediocre country guy too many times! Not this year!!!
It's so crazy to hear island music on Idol... Tongi is killing it for da island crowd!
Pacific Islands all rooting for Iam Tongi. Love from Fiji 🇫🇯
He is already the the winner of this season for me.
Always with good Energy 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
For sure I love iam he is my favorite once I seen him come in he reminded me of willie Spence but then two were two different ppl but as two big ppl they have been just blessing from the sky’s where I just love them both and ik iam will go far in this competition it’s gunna be hard for someone to take him out if anything he makes it to the top 3
ABSOLUTELY!!!
@@ingridh8254 back at it again?? Get outside and touch some grass…you’re wasting your time!
@@ingridh8254 I wonder if Sam meant he makes you feel good kind of energy no necessarily high energy.
@@ingridh8254 I truly appreciate you ❤️🤙🏾
I haven’t really had any interest in watching American Idol for years, but this young man changed that. He is so incredibly talented. I can’t get enough of him. He’s gotta win! 🏆
Same here
I have to agree. Even going as far as listening to what I can find of his music to listen to and getting it stuck in my head. I’ll definitely be buying his music and supporting him.
Yes couldn’t of said it better I was actually tired of the show an he kept popping up in my feed an I finally watched him an haven’t stopped
Same! After season 8 ended (uggh...), I lost intererest and rarely watched it over the years. I watched the last half of last season and picked out Noah as the winner. Iam is as obvious to me. I feel every word he sings and it goes from his heart and soul to mine. I have rarely ever felt that connection with an artist, and I think many people feel the same.
For me it wasn't even years.. it was never. Now, I can't get enough.
This kid opens his mouth and happiness comes out. Can’t stop smiling watching him, loving his joy, feeing his vibe and just feeling that life is so good. Watching idol just for this kid alone Iam Tongi!
Lol, same here, I don't follow American Idol. I accidentally saw his audition and have watched all his performances on American idol TH-cam Channel ever since. Over and over and over again, lol. He's an amazing human being who brings joy in people's hearts and touches you every time you hear him sing.
Please VOTE!
@UOTeach2 where can we vote
To sing an island reggae in the beautiful Pacific Islands through such a prestigious platform is beyond amazing! This was such a moment and I’m so proud of you Iam. Your dad will never let go of you that’s for sure.
No one was even close to this guy, on another level. This can't be duplicated, the energy of his delivery was spiritual.
Thank you for representing the Polynesians more then i’ve ever seen!!! Aloha and DONT CHANGE!!!!
@@emajacobsws fr tho um can all the Polynesians outside of America please create a vpn account and vote for Iam! Malo 🙏🏾😂
Iam is the winner for this season! Beautiful voice, what a talent!
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times per 3 diff platforms
Video views are an important indicator of who will win, and Iam is so far ahead it isn't even close!
I 👍 agree
Yup He already won lol GG!
@@muzikizfun Uh, not really... previous winners have had lower TH-cam video views compared to the competition. Country singers have won a lot the past several seasons, and they often get poor views on TH-cam.
That being said, I do think Iam will still make it far into the competition. And if he doesn't make the finals, I will be disappointed.
Tongi sure knows how to win over an audience with his buttery smooth vocals. His showmanship is on another level.
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times
There r 3 platforms to vote. So up to 30 per person
@@hawaiibound62
What 3 platforms?
@@stephmartin1148 Phone calls, text, or use app
@@kakrot9516 Thank you! Got all my votes in on my phone. Then did my hubby’s phone, then my sons phone!! He deserves these votes!! 😍
His voice is like a warm hug. Love this kid..his story..his spirit..his heart..I pray he wins!
Perfectly put! His voice is like a warm hug.
Sed, sed, sed, indeed ... & from... PACIFICA 🇵🇬 PNG across ATLANTIC, across BERMUDA Islands to US OF A... 🇺🇸 we convey our at most sedness to this magical call through such a VOICE to Dad... CAN YOU HEAR ME DAD... USUALLY thank you God for this sweet VOICE... Can 🌏 Islander win??? ❓
Your prayers were answered 🏆💖 He’s such a gift and a bright light. Mahalo 🤙🏼
@@hawaiidispenser😂😂😂 I remember Adele in fatty days
This kid deserves a recording contract.
I was feeling THIS song. I love the way THIS guys sings. He has SOUL with a little JAZZY and jamaican Flavor. So flowy. Makes you feel like you on the island just chilling.
I love this.
He may just win this whole show. It was amazing see him in his home element and his performance was just outstanding!
He's honestly my pick, too, and there is a LOT of talent this season. I just told my patient (whose room I was in watching this) that guy's voice is actual butter on warmed toast... Then Katy said the same thing. His voice just melts the room! HE'S SO GOOD!
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times
There 3 ways to vote. So up to 30 per person 🎉
I read somewhere that he died the following years.
@@johannerodrigue1075 you're thinking of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole. He was a Hawaiian singer also, and a large guy. Look up his version of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". Had a voice like no other. He did pass away maybe 12 or 13 or so years ago. This singer, Iam Tongi, is on the current season of American Idol.
YESSSS!!!!! Finally someone bring something different on American Idol and first ever to hear a Polynesian reggae vibe....this is brilliant
The simplicity … the music and the musician… no rifts, tricks, frills … just a melody that moves people. He’s the peoples champion.
@@ingridh8254 There is always someone that feels the need to put others down to feel better about their miserable life
@@8AP1 strange to me that someone (Ingrid) spends this much time trolling people's comments of positivity and support! Kind of feel sorry for Ingrid.
I don’t watch American Idol, but I can say this kid keeps making me come back and watch him. Love everything about him.
This, exactly
Same here.
Me too ❤iam
We need to protect Iam!!! He’s a National Treasure! ❤❤❤❤ much love from the Philippines 🇵🇭
I think Lionel Ritchie is all of us when we watch this young man. What an absolute talent, I can't wait to see how far he goes. He deserves stardom and beyond
It's absolutely amazing to see Iam evolve from one week to another. It's absolutely divine to hear him sing every week. I'm watching this at 4am here in Europe, that's how eager and excited I was to watch his performance. Now I can go to sleep.
Awwwwww have a good night sleep ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I felt this! 😂 his voice can make anyone rest easy! ❤
Listening to Iam puts me in a happy place. Wow! I totally dig his voice. Definitely in his own lane. I think he has all that it takes to win this season! He’s getting all my votes!
Same!
Same here
Yes! ❤
He is why I’m watching the show! Never seen anything like this before! HE IS WHAT THIS GENERATION NEEDS IN MUSIC. 👏🏼😭
This is the only idol performance I’ve gone back to listen to again and again..
Iam brought the island breeze home to everyone~I felt it all the way across the USA in NC🥰
A Polynesian kid performing an island reggae song in Hawaii on national television?! No offense to the other performers, but they're playing checkers compared to Iam playing chess! I love this song and this performance was on another level! Incredible for the Polynesian community and culture as well. CHEE-HOO!!🤙🤙
crazy to hear an island jam on American Idol and sung so perfectly! this type of music was made for his voice, all of Polynesia is rooting for you Iam. From Tonga, Samoa, NZ etc
The other singers are great performers, no doubt. Their voices were superb. But this guy Iam is something. He brings me to another world whenever he is singing. He can engage anyone easily. He is so unique in his story telling ability.
This kid has no need to scream, just a pure soul is enough to catch the attention of everyone.
Such a perfect song to show off his amazing voice and Hawaiian spirit. He is THE reason I watch Idol every week!! Can’t wait to pay to see him in concert some day!! Rooting for you, Iam!!!
Neither him nor the original artist are hawaiian
@@jesus11848 I think hawaiian as a nationality. Everyone who lived in Hawaii was considered Hawaiian since Hawaii was its own country. If your bloodline was hawaiian you were kanaka maoli
@@jesus11848 Iam has the local Hawaiian spirit, it doesn't mean he isn't Tongan singing a Samoan song. He's all of that.
@@jesus11848 I’m not Hawaiian by blood. I’m Tongan, Samoan, Haole but was born and raised in Hawaii so I’m Hawaiian for those who don’t mind and I’m not for those who do mind. One love 🤙🏾
This dude right here, his voice is helping me to forget how wild the world is currently. If only music could stop all this evil This young man, right here, would be one of the top people bringing happiness. What a pure soul shining through it all.
💯❤
Iam is so interesting. He just sings. Yet he is competitive af. It just shows you. Some people do not need huge vocal gymnastics, huge belts, soaring mixed notes, whistle tones or ridiculous riffs to be great singers and performers. Iam is simply one of those. I really like this youngster a LOT!
Yeah they try and get people to move around a lot, interact with the crowd, do all this stuff, Iam comes on, just sings and it blows every other contestant out of the water!
Ive cried everytime this man sings. If he doesnt win he needs to be picked up. I can listen to his take on monsters all day. Hes intoxicating and has so much soul.
I was feeling a bit depressed today and you just brightened my day Iam. My mind was taking me to dark places and hearing you sing “Don’t Let Go” pulled me out😢
He was just 100% there...present with the music and the people, bringing them home with his vibes. Taking us all to a beautiful, happy place. Representing all the gifts the Island nations have to give to music. He was solid as rock, sweet as an Angel. I know his dad is up in heaven beaming. Amen. 🇹🇴
I don't know what's wrong with me but every time I hear him sing I get goosebumps 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Me too and I get teared eyed.
It’s ok I think we’re all in the same boat when it comes to Iam we are all amazed by his voice and personality 🫶🏽
Because he's a true bard 🤙🏾🤙🏾🤙🏾
Ur feeling the Island ALOHA SPIRIT…enjoy!
Mahalo from Hawai’i
@@ingridh8254 🤣😆😂 Ingrid H you're funny
How can you not love this beautiful , talented soul???!!! Please, please vote for him America, the next American Idol!!
Out of all the performances this week, I keep coming back to Iam's. So authentic, natural, and real! Love it!
Young man with a big talent!like father like son ❤️❤️❤️
Totally agreed 💯
OK now that I've watched the entire top 26 perform, I'm confident in my belief that Iam is the one to beat. His smooth vocals are already polished and can improve over time. His style doesn't require moving all over the stage. His impact is powerful with just his voice and guitar. The way he connects with the songs he sings and the audience is unlike any other. I think the entire top 26 is talented and this young man has that something extra that makes him the American Idol.
His voice truly is like a warm hug of happiness!!! Love him!
@@ingridh8254 Please do! Good chance you’ll throw up Beelzebub!
The many many years I been watching idol - IAM is my absolute favorite. I never ever voted until this season. Got the whole fam watching him now! Go IAM !
Iam performed like it was his own concert. Relaxed, entertaining and having fun. The crowd was loving it!!
@@ingridh8254 you a damn lie he’s the opposite of a yawn
Yeah if you didn't know this was AI you would think he was a professional famous singer.
@@ingridh8254I see all your hate comments deep down your a fan bro 😂😂
@@thelifeofkhama9910 Iam Tongi here. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but let’s thank him for keeping this thread going. Anything helps whether it be a view, a like or a comment😁❤️ One love 🤙🏾
Just remember, no hater is ever better then the one they’re hating on😊💪 Go Iam!!!!❤️
Without a doubt we are witnessing a rising Super-Star ⭐️
I can’t explain how I feel when I hear him sing. He’s just a vibe. No frills needed 🔥❤🔥
Yaaaass!
Enjoy it while you can !!!
In the Netherlands we say, GEZELLIG!
@@Agentlowe love that!
His performances are the only ones I come back to to listen to again. Rooting for him to win the whole thing!
My face hurts from smiling! He brings not only an outstanding voice but a loving energy that transforms every space he enters. The fish were dancing!
😂😂😂
perfectly said!
@@puananihoku7302 thanks!
I'm watching American Idol for the first time in years because of Iam. First time I ever voted too. Hope this kid wins. I'm listening to music I've never listened to before. I hear him sing it and then I go back and listen to the original.
Iam always bring tears to my eyes. He sings from the depth of his soul. Mahalo nui loa!
Just give this guy the winning title already. Amazing on every single performance.
This sweet kid doesn’t need to win. He is already AMAZING!!! He’s untraditional in every way & yet he is the most talented contestant. His voice is beautiful and he FEELS what he’s singing & clearly he loves it. And I love listening to him. I hope everyone agrees! #1!!!
The 2023 Idol winner!!! We all love you Iam!!
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times!!!
even the band is digging this performance ✨
Wow jst wow much love from Zambia 🇿🇲 I will live my comment here so that any time someone likes my comment I will come and watch again give him the grown wena
This boy is already the winner of American Idol!! He has captured the hearts of everyone ❤️❤️
Man, if this isn’t the best rendition to that track, I don’t know what is. Thank you toko for using this platform to showcase Polynesian music to the world. Your old man will be super proud of you.
Shoutout to Spawnbreezie 💪
676 🇹🇴 x 685 🇼🇸
Iam definitely winning !
His performances has been authentic and deeply genuine from day one! Real brand... My first choice. His dad put the work in... Now it's time to win.
I know numbers don’t always mean everything, but the fact that his performance has already hit 1M views while nobody else has even hit 300k yet is wild! I could be wrong, but I don’t think we’ve ever had this big of a gap between a front runner & the rest of the competition on just about any singing competition before. Can’t wait to see him go all the way!🙌🏽🔥
love your insights
Yes!
I agree!!!! Especially the audition. IAM audition was millions of hit before any other contestant. Rooting for everyone and wishing IAM good luck!!! His DAD is REALLY GUIDING HIM AND PRAYING HE WILL MAKE IT TO THE TOP!! 2023 AMERICAN IDOL WINNER!!! #TEAMIAMTONGI ❤❤❤
💯
I agree...
This is a household jam of the pacific, I can guarantee you had everyone down here rocking and singing with you🙌
Iam has got my vote all the way to win this whole thing! His sound & style just sooths my soul.
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times!
i love how hes putting our beautiful polynesian people on the map! he has a real gift and so proud of him,singing one of polys talents too sprawnbreezies cover makes me feel like im in hawaii! loving the vibes his rendition of this is just beautiful to watch.
You got all 10 of my votes! His voice just warms my soul! Iam for the win!
This was a SHOWSTOPPER PERFORMANCE. Let’s not forget to acknowledge the AMAZING Harmonies by the background vocalists! ❤️
That’s what I thought too.
So stoked Iam brought that feel good island music to the idol platform. And Luke, that feeling you felt is called Aloha. That's what was in the air during his performance. This is our new artist of this generation in the making.
Everytime I hear Iam sing it brings absolute tears to my eyes! Rooting for him and his success, always!
Damn... He killed it again!! he's just awesome. Really routing for him to win this whole thing and i wish i can hear A full versions of all the rendition's he's done so far because i find my self rewinding these youtube videos over and over again.
Brah, every adult male 30 years or older in Hawaii feels like a proud uncle right now. GETTUM MAH BOY!!! CHEEEEE 🤙🏽🤙🏽🔥 Braddah Iam is da new Braddah Iz.
I'm obsessed, have no idea how many times I've come back to rewatch his videos. He's an amazing singer and I really hope people everywhere know his name
I don’t even watch american idol, I’m just watching his performances alone, Iam just has a presence that makes you genuinely smile and happy, his the winner this season in my eyes, he deserves it ❤
This young man is a musical beast..he lives, eats, and drinks music. He sings like he wrote those songs. 👏👏👏👏👏. Rooting for him all the way.
He eats a lot more than music.
@@cascade3769 Like what?
@@anotherchannel9928 What doesn't he eat?
@@cascade3769 unfortunately the tongan, samoan and many Polynesian races have developed a gene that allows us to store food in way meant for famine and war. On long journeys across the ocean, food isn't exactly the most readily available source and landing on small islands across the pacific meant sometimes fighting off pre existing tribes or developing villages to have homes to travel back too which meant alot of the smaller men and women died off only leaving the bigger stronger ones to survive. Bringing us back to present day where we no longer have famine or war, we are stuck with this gene.
So for example say you and I had the same exact meals everyday for a month my weight gain would be significantly more than your just because of the way our bodies store food vs the way yours store food.
I don’t know what it is about Iam, but his voice and presence just exudes love and peace. Beautiful ❤️
Its so amazing how much range and versatility his voice has. He can practically do any type of song.
He absolutely cannot. He cannot sing anything uptempo and still articulate the lyrics. One trick pony.
keep hating while they keep growing fam
@@yesitis1395 This one trick pony is leading the race by many thousands, if you haven't noticed. He must be well liked by many and surely very talented in his style of music. He is being true to himself so far, and I, like many others, are here to see him win it. His voice and music is soothing to the soul.
Most of the contestants to me this year are just awful! I have no idea what the judges are talking about how great the talent is. Then there is Iam, my goodness, this guy is incredible!
@@Acujeremy Most of the others have this belief that screaming words in a mic sounds great. Iam don't have to scream to get his beautiful music story told. He is in a league of his own and he has many spectators watching him.
Cheeeehooo!! Malie Iam!! Ofa atu dox..love how you reppin all of Polynesia and no doubt you did the big uce Spawnbreezie proud❤ leeeessssgo @iamtongi the whole world cheering you on!! 🥰🙏❤💯👌🏼
Dude how is this even possible. My eyes water when I hear this guy every time
I can see this young man bringing the world together with his beautiful voice. Gives me vibes of Bob Marley with his flow and his soul. Don't Let Go!!!! God Bless and Much Love.
This guy really brings me back in hawaii everytime I hear his voice.
That hawaii vibe he brings in his voice is just...
This was such a surreal moment. I remembering being there and cheeehoooing from the top of my lungs. So happy for you Toko! Hawai’i strong!!!!
He’s #1 ! His soothing voice brings peace to my soul, everything will be ok in life. I know his father was singing with him on that stage. He has to win this! The world needs calmness and he gives this to so many!
This guy's already a superstar, every performance of him gets on trending on youtube.
This reminded me so much of Sam Cooke & The Soul Stirrers in the opening. Very gospel. Then he changed it up to that classic Hawaiian rhythm, voice is perfection, soothing, comfortable. He is a Star!
Don't forget u can vote up to 10 times
Iam is the only Hawaiian performer I can recall since the iconic Don Ho
@@muzikizfun We actually have this Hawaii guy that sort of made it a few years back, has a decent voice, he's sort of ok as a performer, had a few hits, nothing super major....you might have heard of him.....BRUNO MARS...and this other lady...shes kind of old at this point but recent enough...supposedly an actress singer or something....Bette Midler?
see also: Auli'i Cravalho (Moana), Tia Carrere (Wayne's World....AND as you are eye rolling....let me drop the mic here and let you know she has FOUR Grammys),
@cheedoggy I'm referring to native Hawaiians. Though the people you listed are all good, they don't produce the sounds and feelings of the Islands like Iam. If a native Hawaiian has hit it big in the last 50 years, it has escaped my notice.
@@muzikizfun apparently it’s going to continue to escape your notice…Iam, like all those I listed is FROM Hawaii, not native Hawaiian. He is Tongan.
His voice is like warm honey. I lived the island rhythm and all that palpable love.
And the band and backup singers were stellar.
Can't help but feel joy when he sings!!! Winner Winner 🥇 love him
I hadn't ever heard this song, love it! I listen to it daily. I think my favorite part of the video is the little young guy in the family, he's got smooth moves already, watch out young girls he's a heartbreaker ❤sooo cute!
yess i noticed him too. so cute and adorable
Win, lose or draw, get this kid in the recording studio. I'm looking forward to his first album.
Praying and hoping for Iam Tongi for the win American Idol. What a voice. Go,go,go, Iam.🙏🏻🙏🏻🌹🌹
I believe that if he or we ani don’t make it, Lionel is picking them up for projects. He seems to really enjoy their talent.
The way he sings speaks to you! There’s this calmness that transports you back in time to a simpler state of mind when he interprets music. He is awesome! 😎
Listening from New Zealand! Haven’t bothered with Idol since Randy and Paula were judges and fantasia won it, but I look forward to this man’s performance every week. His voice speaks straight to the soul 😌
Every time I am crying and can help but sing along. His music choices, his soothing voice and his spirit. He is something special
I hope he gets all the success he deserves so he can move his family back home. He has a great career ahead of him and can’t wait for it.
To be honest, I was expecting another tear jerker...which I've loved. But look at Iam go! Upbeat, great volume, charm, working the audience. No crying, just a big stupid grin throughout the whole song. Thinking about how awesome a career this young man can have.
at this point everything he sings makes me cry 😂😂