Iam Tongi Makes The Judges Cry With 'Monsters' And His Emotional Story - American Idol 2023

This one’s a tearjerker! Iam lost his dad, Rodney, just a few months ago and says he can still hear him harmonizing with him on every song he sings. Rodney taught Iam music from a very young age and always wanted his son to try out for American Idol. Iam is so emotional in the room that he has trouble starting his song, dedicated to his dad.

AMERICAN IDOL, the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre, returns on ABC.

American Idol 2023

Helping to determine who America will ultimately vote for to become the next singing sensation are music industry forces and superstar judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest continues as host of the beloved series, for the historic 21st season.

[joearias]

“I’m not your son, you’re not my father, we’re just two grown men saying goodbye “- just hits me hard…

[jerisunderwood]

This kid was my neighbor. He, his mom and his sister came to our house and sang to us on our front porch. He came over and he and I sang together while he played that guitar. I remember when his dad passed. It was so sad. I am so happy for him.

[garyfernandez]

“Don’t be afraid, it’s my turn to chase the monsters away.” Wow, what a line.

[abbasaldamim_]

''its my turn to chase the monsters away'' Killed me maaan

[zymbotictoot]

I'm a grown ass man looking at a phone sobbing. This kid is amazing.

[siopetongi]

My dad attended the funeral for Iam's dad. Music flows strong through the blood of the Tongi family. Never met you cousin, but I love you and wish you luck!!

[rsc]

Sometimes you hear music that touches deep hidden emotions. My dad died 15 years ago, and I cried more listening to this song than I did at his funeral. I pushed that sh*t down so deep, I don’t think I ever felt the pain of his death as acutely as I did today.

[RockyMurasing]

To all the sons who want to make their dad proud.

[MrFirstMiddleLast]

That might be the most incredible performance I’ve ever heard. No auto tune, no producers. Just a boy with a guitar, mourning the death of his father.

[jpengen]

Some music comes from the mouth.. some music comes from the mind... some music comes from the heart... This man's music comes from the very center of his soul. He didn't just sing a song to audition.... he gave us the privilege to enter his life and see his character, his love to see his father and his hope to secure his future. He didn't just share his music... he gave us a priceless gift. Iam Tongi, thank you.

[michellecollins]

I'm not a son but a daughter. Everytime I hear his version I cry so hard. I miss my Dad so much ❤

[soybit]

I'm gonna call my dad right now to say I love him

[taraartsgameindonesia]

When you see something so pure, you realize the studio don't need any fancy editing. Dried my eyes from crying so much 😭

[johnleombruno]

To any son who's lost a father. This hits hard.

[queeneze]

I just lost my dad 2 weeks ago and I’m listening to this music and it hits differently

[jasongrondin]

I lost my dad last July after a torturous battle with ALS. Watching the strongest man I knew slowly lose control of all physical aspects in his life absolutely killed my soul. He did have have the final say in finally ending his suffering and while we will miss him so much forever, he was given one final bit of control back to his life. Miss you so much dad.

[jacobstinson]

26 year old dude here. Lost my dad to terminal cancer when I was 19. Everything about Iam's demeanor and performance reminds me of myself shorty after my dad left and I couldn't stop crying after watching this. Wish I could give him a hug and just talk to him about it all. Love and Gratitude will always win. shoutout to all the amazing fathers out there.

[jayaitch]

“Priced outta paradise.” Gosh, that’s sad. God bless this man and his family! What a beautiful, touching voice he has.

[janweimarjerusalem]

I watched it a hundred times and still always gets through my heart. I miss my dad so badly 😢

[franklincountiesfinest]

This ones for Rodney ❤
Made me cry like a baby.

That mans in Heaven watching over the greatness he created.