James Blunt helps American Idol winner Iam Tongi get through incredibly emotional duet
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James Blunt helped out American Idol winner, Iam Tongi, to get through an incredibly emotional duet on the show's season finale.
Tongi, an 18-year-old Hawaii native, was joined on stage with Blunt to belt out his hit single 'Monsters', in which he can be seen fighting back tears after an exceptionally intense emotional roller-coaster during the season.
The track in question, a ballad about a father and son, was previously performed by Tongi for his audition, which the aspiring star told the judges was an ode to his late father. Check out the heart-wrenching performance here:
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Tongi has attributed his introduction into the world of music to his father, Rodney, who died just a matter of months before his audition.
"I was not worried about whether you were going to make it through the song, I was worried about whether we were going to make it through the song. Your daddy is very proud," said judge Lionel Richie at the time.
Fellow American Idol judge, Katy Perry added: "What a fantastic song to pick. You're making these grown men cry."
And it's clearly been a full-circle moment for Tongi, after Blunt joined him to sing a duet of the song over the three-hour finale, wrapping up the show's 21st season last night (21 May).
Less than a minute into the performance, Tongi can be seen wiping tears from his face as he began struggling with the lyrics.
The 'You're Beautiful' hit-maker then stepped in to help Tongi carry on with the song as he looked into his eyes for emotional support.
When the pair finished up the performance, they had a heartfelt hug while the audience erupted into a booming applause.
And it's clear the performance packed just as much of a punch to viewers at home as they've since flocked to social media to share their reactions to the touching moment.
One YouTube user commented: "Props to James Blunt for pushing Iam through this song."
A second posted: "This performance will always be remembered for its authenticity, humanity and beauty."
"The raw emotion from Mr James Blunt is what really sent Iam over," penned a third.
"Two different styles of singing but both heart felt and gut wrenching. Thank you Mr Blunt for helping Iam get through this song."
A fourth wrote: "I'm still emotional. I've always admired James Blunt. But the duet just hit me to the core. I'll never forget this song, and this performance. I cried when I heard your name as the winner of American Idol."
A final viewer penned: "This is probably the most emotional, heartfelt performance in American Idol history.
"Iam, your mom and especially your dad are very proud of you."
Topics: Film & TV, American Idol, Celebrity, Film and TV, Music, Good News
