“American Idol” season 21 made history when native Hawaiian and non-country singer Iam Tongi won the competition. Tongi brought Island music to Idol and it was refreshing for fans to get to hear something new as he blended sounds of island reggae, folk, and R&B in his music.
Knowing that Tongi’s music isn’t what Idol fans normally hear, he admitted that he was a little nervous when he opened up for judge Luke Bryan this past summer. How would die-hard country music fans take to his unique sound?
Iam Tongi Shows Appreciation for Luke Bryan Fans Despite Initial ‘Weird Feeling’
Getty“American Idol” winner Iam Tongi is feeling the love from country fans. In a recent interview with Taste of Country Nights, the singer shared how thrilling it was to open for one of Luke Bryan’s shows in Florida. However, he admitted that he had a “weird feeling” before he hit the stage, questioning if Bryan’s fans would appreciate his style of music.
“But it was such a weird feeling. I go out there and I’m like, ‘Man, everybody in the lineup is singing country and I’m going out there singing, Is this love, is this love, I’m singing reggae, man,'” he expressed.
To his surprise, he was welcomed with cheers and applauds from Bryan’s die-hard country fans. Tongi shared that it “was really cool” having the fans appreciate his music.
“I just went out there and had some fun, and people were jamming out! They were all jumping, man. I was like, ‘Oh shoot, they just wanna have fun too!'”
In June, Tongi shared a TikTok whre he was seen gearing up for his performance at the JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, Florida. At the end of the night, Tongi joined Bryan up on stage where they sang a rendition of Diamond Rio’s country tune, “Meet in the Middle.”
Tongi Announced His Fall Tour
Tongi’s career in music has soared since his “American Idol” win. In recent news, the singer announced an exciting two-month tour across the U.S., that kicked off in Gainesville, Georgia, on Oct. 17. Tongi is expected to perform in major cities like Charleston, Orlando, and New York City, with Nashville being his last stop. This tour is Tongi’s first-ever time headlining his own shows.
“I’m so thankful I get to live this life. Thank you for making it happen. My first headlining tour kicks off this week and I’m so stoked! Go get them tickets now. Yessah!” He captioned his Instagram post.
In addition to his fall tour, Tongi recently released his new reggae single “Sugar” in September.
Tongi has had an incredible year, including lending his voice to “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” on the live-action “Lilo & Stitch” soundtrack.
