Why We Love Iam Tongi (American Idol Finalist)

I share this story because it's a perfect example of Finding Focus. This is what being in alignment, being centered, being authentic and true to yourself, and sharing your gifts is really all about.

After attending the homecoming and concert for Iam Tongi here in Hawaii (for which THOUSANDS attended), I've been giving this some thought and have been wondering why Iam Tongi is so magnetic and magical. I hadn't watched American Idol in years. But last month a buzz started about this young man from Hawaii (he’s only 18!) who was becoming a viral sensation so I had to check it out. After his audition—which brought the judges to tears—the video became the most-watched AI audition ever. (If you haven't seen it, do a google search for "Iam Tongi audition" and have some tissues ready. I was crying ugly.)

Each week his song choices are heartfelt and perfectly performed (even if he admittedly messes up the lyrics at times--but even his tiny mess-ups are endearing and makes him more real). He has this smooth, buttery voice that's calming and reminiscent of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole who performed the most recently famous version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. When Iam sings, you feel like you're being wrapped in a warm, happy hug.

Iam's version of The Sound of Silence was so well done you could hear a pin drop over the hushed audience. His duets with Oliver Steele highlighted his harmonies--something that was honed over the years singing with his late father--harmonies that he was afraid he couldn't do because he only sang with his father until now. And his island-style vibe woven into some of his songs has everyone cheering, swaying, and singing along.

Again, if you haven't seen his American Idol performances, get out from under your rock and do a google search. You're missing out if you haven't.

There are critics who say he's boring because he always does the same type of performance. They say he's not American Idol material because he doesn't do different types of songs, he doesn't move around the stage, he doesn't do vocal range runs, he doesn't do rock and roll, he's not flashy enough, etc.

He simply steps up and sings.

Some critics even say his story about the loss of his father is just another sad story to try to hook the judges.

I say, "Good for him!" What I love about Iam Tongi is that he's staying true to himself. He's authentic. He's heartfelt. He's pure. He sings from his soul and tells the true story of why he's here. He connects and communicates through his music. He makes us feel calmer, hopeful, and happy. We relate to his pain and smile with his joy of living in the moment. In a world with so much fake news, corruption, economic difficulties, mistrust, and everyday hardships, it's nice to have someone real to focus on and cheer for.

I got to meet Iam the morning of his concert and you can actually feel his wonderfully warm energy. His smile is genuine and oh, so infectious! When I asked if I could take a picture of him, he took my phone and said, "Let's do a selfie!" Everyone I've spoken to about him (longtime friends, friends of the family, even American Idol staff who were with him) say the same thing: "He's a genuinely nice guy. He's the real deal."

We need more heroes like this. People we can look to who are centered, humble, and authentic. How can you not love him?