Iam Tongi & James Blunt: Super Emotional Duet of "Monsters" Makes Idol History - American Idol 2023

[@JellyRoll]

Witnessing this in person was one of the most emotional things ever

[@abod9545]

And seeing you sitting there with his mama was one of the most touching things ever 💕

[@captaint4587]

I can only imagine. Iam needs you

[@hidipatrick1384]

Iam and Jelly Roll new single???😅 but who am I to wishful think❤

[@Reidbit]

Jelly roll, appreciate the JRE pod!

[@mr.teofilo8857]

love you jelly

[@johncarloyutuc6028]

Can we just appreciate the greatness and professionalism of James Blunt? The man is a master of holding his emotions while giving a very heartfelt performance.

[@aholdan]

This is such an underrated comment. Professional doesn’t do James enough justice. Not all superhero’s wear capes.

[@TheEvilWithinKevin]

He's an amazing artist and performer

[@angelmedina1629]

Facts. Look at his body language, you can tell he understood he had to help Iam get through this song

[@victormartinii7950]

He is a military man so he knows a few things about how being strong.

[@robhernandez3593]

Absolutely, and let’s not forget Iam is a boy and his dad died months ago. So to be able to pull this performance off at all was a great feat for both of them. James was shaking too.

[@FallenCCIX]

Blunt is a veteran and professional, of course he can keep his emotions in check. Tongi is a boy who just lost his father, the emotions were overwhelming for him, even for the crowd and judges. But what Blunt did there, carrying the young Tongi through the song and comforting him afterwards… now that’s character. Blunt doesn’t get enough credit. Two beautiful souls on that stage.

[@jeromejudd9114]

Bingo! You’re exactly right!!

[@gloriaalore349]

I watch this performance three or more times a day and cry. I love these two.

[@christophegouache4985]

Two grown men singing, trembling, feeling what they say. Such a beautiful duet ❤

[@michaeladams2077]

I don’t think being a “veteran or professional “ has anything to do with it. But everything else you say is on point. ;)

[@dylanwetten1789]

You know I never really liked James blunt. I thought he was corny because of his main song, but as I look back and as I explore all of his music, that man is a treasure. An army vet, a wonderful human being in general. Wish I could get to meet him.

[@GangstaVic]

James Blunt is a REAL ONE in my eyes for this..

[@TheWeightsOver]

100%

[@EcEryda]

Props to James Blunt for pushing Iam through this song.

[@jshort7048]

It was phenomenal. Glad my mom made me watch this

[@Zhana808]

Just wow.. seeing them do this together was the PERFECT ENDING. The song that touched souls and made the world cry. I’ve never been moved so much by a song/performance. We’re so proud of you Iam ❤️🇹🇴

[@wolvesan]

I keep watching / listening to this performance over and over... so beautiful

[@mariamarin8385]

Such raw emotion... still feeling so much love for you kid...you'll be ok Iam

[@mariamarin8385]

​@@wolvesan me too

[@navigatingwithnana]

This was obviously very hard, emotionally for James. You can see his jaw quiver and his hands tremble. Imagine writing a song about losing your father, he's then spared, and you later are asked to help an 18 year old, who just lost his father, perform it for the world. Bravo to both of you for pushing through and moving us all so deeply!

[@Tonithemaverick]

Watched an interview about James video of this song & how it wasn’t planned for him to cry in it esp w/dad sitting there but he started to crack & they left it in video. He truly understood & was almost at a breaking point himself in this. ❤️❤️

[@marklovelace297]

That is courage my friends!

[@debraobeidat4470]

Just so beautiful the both of them l can't find the words.....😢😢😢

[@maretharegis]

James is hero.

[@barrydiamond5193]

Losing

[@yogsothoth9890]

How James Blunt used the words of the song and actually put his hand on Iam's shoulder to bring him back and show he was there with him. Epic. A Class act.

[@blaynesmith69]

Ik this is unrelated to the comment but it’s at 420 likes as I’m seeing this. I also completely agree though, beautiful song

[@TurquoiseOpal]

​@@blaynesmith69dumb ass comment to relate this to 420

[@randylove]

This year I don't know who won in 2023 didn't care to watch it how can I when I'm tongi us still ringing in the air

[@DigitalWoozaa]

Even better: he is changing the text from "my hand on your own" to "my hand on your arm", isnt he?

[@yogsothoth9890]

​@@DigitalWoozaawoooow, I didnt catch that! Incredible! Thank you for pointing it out❤

[@TonyTalksUK]

James Blunt squeezed his arm as he sung it. He was there. Unbelievable performance.

[@V3178-e9r]

You can see how much their dads’ meant to them during this performance. They truly sang from their hearts.

[@patriciawatson-roberts81573]

James Blunt's father is fortunately still living after receiving a Kidney transplant.

[@laurenball1392]

This song saved James dad. A distant relative seen the video and went to see if they were a kidney match. They were and he is alove and doing well.

[@sherricook3161]

​@@laurenball1392Wow!!!

[@sommers422]

Absolutely AMAZING ❤❤❤❤

[@ce7768]

@@laurenball1392 it's the power of music. Kudos to that relative who heard it, made contact to test and was a match then he donated. Such a powerful story not lost on us all..

[@ShortsFactory101]

James carried Iam through but you can't help but notice James is shaking and hurting as well! So heartfelt!

[@BrokeDudeAdventures]

I'm glad I wasn't the only one that noticed that. He is fighting to keep it together.

[@lockgam]

So true, but I felt a story within a story as well. Like, James Blunt was like symbolic for an uncle or something that was narrating the struggles of Iam, and Iam was the first person view of such a great loss. That hand on the arm and that energy of support he was giving was almost radiating off of him. Kinda a stupid comment but I say stupid stuff when I feel this so deeply.

[@ekabudhiirawan]

James try so hard to keep his emotion in line, what a gentlemen

[@Mr-ye1vu]

Poor guy was terrified. Big stage

[@jennylou2]

⁠@@lockgamdon’t apologize. It didn’t sound stupid. It sounds like poetry. Keep sharing your words ❤

[@traviscooper2205]

Props to James Blunt for being so compassionate and professional. Stepping in where he was struggling. Beautiful.

[@james2578]

james blunt cant help but be beautiful

[@59771006]

⁠@@james2578 He’s beautiful He’s beautiful He’s beautiful, it’s true

[@justingarman6980]

@@james2578This guy made a “funny” comment to get likes.. didn’t work.. so now he made a new account to say “beautiful, beautiful!” As in.. “get it!?” I’m high and this song kills me.

[@kyledowell4468]

Still the most beautiful and compelling moment in the history of this show.

[@sammni]

Blunt was a British army captain

[@hmejia30]

I am 51 years old and these two artists made me cry and remember my father who I never had the chance to say goodbye to before he closed his eyes forever. I'm sorry dad😪

[@icebergstorm]

I've never had the chance to meet, see or even said goodbye for 20+ years to my dad.. i know how it really feels 😢😢😢

[@richardheudorf2245]

I would have given anything to say goodbye to my father. Love ya Doc 😢

[@TimeBucks]

Probably the most emotional and heartfelt performance

[@tahirmansuri9825]

Nice

[@bharatlalverma8522]

Nice

[@wretchedman6726]

good

[@maheshmeena1041]

👍

[@mdmamunmorshed2007]

good

[@marladelgado21]

While I am so thrilled for Iam to have won American Idol, I also really hope he has the opportunity to grieve for this father. This finale performance goes to show he is human, he is 18-years-old, and he needs time to heal. Thank you Iam for bringing your music to millions of people to see. I will be a Iam Tongi fan for life.

[@CheRob96]

♥️

[@klanilove1050]

❤❤❤❤

[@ma53jg]

Remember Iam stated he expresses his emotions through music.

[@Trinimamba87]

I think American Idol was his therapy and allowed him to grieve, and touch everyone’s heart because we all grieve at some point. Ian. made his purpose on the show to honour his dad, and that alone makes him the winner .

[@mistercrayle]

Very true. In the audition, he said it was only a couple months ago that his father had passed, add on a couple more considering the length of the show and all the shenanigans that come with it - it is still very fresh. It's his father after all. I lost a grandparent and that took years to finally accept and realize that he was gone. Now a father, whom he'd shared and played music with..... I don't even wanna imagine.

[@Nick-kx1yv]

The arm touch was such a subtle “you’re doing this, we’re almost there”

[@troyolson-johnson4189]

This singular comment pulls at my heart unlike any other goodness me

[@julidog1000]

"Come on now you have this and I'm with you" wor James is an absolute treasure

[@MiguelJuanez]

When I saw that I was extra moved further into my feels. Damn what a moment. ❤

[@stephengrigg5988]

1:14 Well look how quick he shoots a look at James 😢 I think he was signaling to him that he was falling apart.

[@Nizhonibearcreek]

One wrote it for a father he thought would die and the other sings it for a father he lost ❤

[@hankakah4180]

When even grown men are crying around the world. Thank you James Blunt for your tearjerking song and thank you Iam for bringing this to the world. This song will be remembered forever in many tributes, funerals, final bedside moments. It's brought the world a little closer because we all feel this moment eventually, and together we can overcome our sadness and remember the meaningful moments of our lives.

[@cherylalt101]

Beautiful performance and beautiful comment. Thanks for sharing!

[@teauesera9236]

Moving comments. The world is a little better because of this song and tribute to father’s and son’s around the world.

[@RobertJohnson-bj5lk]

You can see the emotional pain on Both of their faces. They are both doing the best they can to muscle their way through this song together. Thank you James and Iam for blessing us with this incredible song.

[@hankakah4180]

@@teauesera9236 It's also the compassion that James Blunt provided to Iam when he was crying, the hand on his arm, an emotional moment that they both shared together. The world can learn a lot about how we can treat others who are in need of compassion, help, and empathy. We can heal everyone if we try.

[@josephk801]

@@hankakah4180 He even altered the lyric to try and keep Iam grounded. Pretty incredible stuff.

[@Aegeanic_Youtube]

James Blunt is not just a great artist. He's a great personality.

[@michiganebayflipper9497]

He's a great human being.

[@pothagrias4311]

And great story teller

[@pjmoseley243]

he is such a great man and son

[@shunyip]

and how he put so much in this performance… not just do the standard job

[@TeferaGebeyehu-rm9ve]

Absolutely right, good observation

[@tongadivine5081]

He only had couple months to grieve for his father before his first audition and to stand there in the finals singing side by side James Blunt is a dream. A dream once dreamt by Iam and his father! So proud of you Iam! TONGA stands with you ❤️🇹🇴

[@lavernecorpuz3963]

I feel happy his Mama signed him up. He could gone on living without a purpose with the loss of his best friend his Dad but she kept him busy knowing how much difference he could make in his life to heal those through his music as they in turn helped him release all what he kept bottled up inside. Love you Iam. Great job!

[@patmccoy8758]

I'm thinking Iam's Dad was smiling in Heaven.

[@lefefesole8948]

Samoan stands with you too God Bless You 🇼🇸🇦🇸🇫🇯

[@godola1380]

I mean he could wait till next year..still would win but..

[@KISStributeNYC97]

It was beautiful.

[@simonwong4777]

well done James Blunt for supporting through the song. one of the most UNDERRATED singers ever

[@bakugosan2604]

who’s says james blunt is underrated i’m from the remotes side of india near china border arunachal pardesh and we all know him here very well

[@bartdereu9267]

Nobody thinks James is underrated. He's world class.

[@soysaucegirl2007]

James Blunt spontaneously changed the lyrics of Monsters. The original had the line, "You can feel my hand on your own" but he changed it to "you can feel my hand on your arm", responding to the moment, the moment to give Iam emotional support. Fair play to him.

[@ProudWayniac]

Actually, I think he always said "on your arm" at least in the music video. That was a super precious moment because as I mentioned in my own comment, James' dad did the very same thing to him in the music video when he got upset.

[@danfinch4434]

It’s always been on your arm?

[@tmahue9541]

Thank you James. I was too emotional and wanted to jump into my screen to hug IAM at that moment and his face is a face a parent can't handle and needs to protect. This is what Iam was this season, open and real for all the world to see. Some people don't get that. It wasn't about perfect notes or turning into someone else...Iam kept true to his Real self...childlike innocent magic. Thank you Iam for this beautiful moment ❤ love you always xx Love Megan too and all the contestants who were young and so very talented and inspiring all with different and unique gifts hay blew us away this season. Just amazing!!! ❤🎉

[@teresaglover6684]

​still crying ❤

[@tmahue9541]

@@teresaglover6684 me too 😭

[@MRprod.]

I tought the audition was heart-wrenching but this triggered a lot spectrum of emotions. James did an amazing job trying to bring back Iam and filling the gap when needed.

[@esi3678]

I love this

[@wherearewegoing378]

So much better than beer in my hand or whatever they were singing

[@nancy9891]

Especially since the verses were altered and the two probably didn’t have much time to practice. James is from England I think.

[@SqueezySponge]

I asked myself why Blunt wasn’t crying with Iam, but then after a while I realized he had to be strong for Iam. He had to step into that father figure role and do what Rodney would have done for his son in that moment.

[@Jaimelyn_disney11]

I love this so much❤

[@mylenepampaguen7091]

James Blunt found someone who experienced the lyrics itself. Iam Tongi expressed the song word by word, line by line and verse by verse. Thanks to both amazing artists (James and Iam) .

[@bevkelly9896]

James Blunt has too, he wrote this song for his own dying father 😢

[@themanonmars]

Yea james song literally wrote this for his dying father. I think their emotions were clearly in the same place

[@megan25251]

@@bevkelly9896James blunt’s dad actually ended up surviving! He made a public plea for a transplant after the music video and it worked

[@davea11]

​@@bevkelly9896 his dad is fine lol

[@bevkelly9896]

Yeah I saw his Dad is still alive!! It's great news, but I totally thought he'd passed away.

[@USAF09]

I was not ready for that, I lost my dad at the age of 20. It was tough, I was developing a relationship as a young man with him. As I listened to this performance, I never felt more closer to him. Truly a heart felt moment. Thank you for guys for the memories and tears. It was much needed. As I have a son of my own, it’s a song I’ll grow with and eventually showing my boy.

[@LyraLasala]

I love how James Blunt handled and carried the song for him. Huge respect.

[@Simon-tx5dj]

even when u can see that is it also hard for himself.

[@doantranvan1844]

ok

[@terrilucio9589]

James Blunt did a great job!! He was having a hard time keeping it together also great song❤

[@mgapasen6721]

I do too....Mahalo....

[@TherealPatrickBatemanOfficial]

​@@doantranvan1844okay? I bet you're funny at parties 🤣🤣🤣

[@ScottSinclair-g5j]

It's like his father came through James to help him ❤

[@EliZaragoza-n5n]

Love this comment 🫶

[@pclarkey1988]

Wow. 😭 Nice comment, made me gulp

[@Ebony192]

Omg this is beautiful ❤️

[@michaelburton7774]

Wow 🥹

[@KUYA-NATO_OFW]

when was the last time i cried😢

[@johnlopez3996]

James Blunt showed his class by hugging Iam and giving him a kiss on the cheek. For all those who have lost a father, relative, or close friend, may this song give you the strength and comfort to find peace in your heart.

[@allanstriber5272]

I lost my dad 33 yrs ago plus all my uncles .it doesn't stop hurting

[@angelwings7930]

Yes James is a good person

[@Jegah1]

Lost my father 2 years ago still hurts because I never got to say goodbye 😥😢

[@imeldaeverhart3332]

It's heartbreaking to lost a Dad I'm 16th when my dad died 💔 😢

[@MrStark110]

Lost my dad to Cancer 3 years ago, this song is amazing ❤

[@elaineharrington-x5r]

James Blunt is a man's man. He gave this song to Iam Tongi to sing knowing it probably would cause his friend to win. A man's man is unselfish that way. The world has lost the true meaning of a real man.

[@jordan9604]

I love how uncomfortable James is. You can just tell that this song tugs on every string of his. He is just trying to make it through for the boy. That is courage. Being so scared and anxious that you are shaking, but you hold it together because someone else depends on you. A true man. A real man.

[@georgehernandez2156]

I think he is overcompensating and overdoing it to push through the emotions so he can get through the song for everyone

[@P.Subaeruginosa]

Tbh I think he's also quite intimidated by that young man beside him

[@jndvs95]

I mean, imagine dumping your heart and pain into a song, to then have to sing it again and again and again, then to sing it on stage with another stranger who you know is relating directly to the feeling you put into that song. You could tell James was fighting onion ninjas

[@Seasniffer1969]

​@@AdolfTrumplerso he doesn't cry

[@jarod466]

@@AdolfTrumplerbecause he wrote this song as a tribute believing his dad was terminal but his dad ended up surviving. To sing it next to an 18-year-old who actually fully relates to his song. There is also a body language expert who broke down the video and James is making a face you physically can’t make unless you are experiencing deep sadness.

[@auranvillamarsalcido9923]

I heard James Blunt donates the proceeds from this song to charity for kidney transplant patients . God bless him for this and Iam for making this song known throughout the world

[@pauldawson3751]

dodgy freemasons like charity

[@tamarinbush6613]

When a singer can make everyone cry, you know they are a true artist. So many of us have cried right along with Iam.

[@randylove]

I am a guy and tears came down my cheeks it felt like it was raining in my house most guys r watching sports and I am watching Iam and James blunt sing monsters

[@helenvaldez1270]

I cried so hard, I had to watch again becuase I couldn't hear them singing..still 🤧

[@Harpoon2theRescue]

I didn't.

[@danasmith4044]

​@@Harpoon2theRescue and...

[@xchampxownsx4535]

It’s funny you say this, because lots of fans from the other contestants thought Ima didn’t deserve to win, that the girl sang better. A true e artist connects with the entire audience.

[@nkosinathindhlovu6610]

Iam crying and James shaking while they are singing just brought so many emotions to this song. I envy the crowd watching it live🥹🥹

[@keyondavis7241]

I loved how he did this whole show his way. He represented the Pacific Islander/reggae genre and proved that it doesn’t matter what genre or who you are as an artist, you can be successful on this show

[@Luv2make2]

Iam was always polite, genuine, and humble. He laughed hard with the other contestants. He made us cry; made us feel, and made us all proud. Rodney is proud!!!

[@lentoymoeaveave2505]

Well said ❤ yes Iam has made all Polynesians proud!

[@RuaTrevor]

A proud Melanesian here. Much love from PNG

[@margusmagi6703]

Keyon, iam is not an artist (and maybe never will be). This performance shows it very clearly. As person (and son) he has feelings / emotions and can / need to express them. But as an artist (and singer) one should express its own feelings through the song / musically (not through crying). As difficult as it is.

[@suhatafe]

​​@@margusmagi6703 Iam is obviously not a professional you genius. He's an amateur singer trying to prove himself. He has shown that he has enough singing talent to at least start making music on bigger stages. Now that he won, he'll then be coached on how to be a professional singer (all things considered). Keep in mind, he's only 18 yrs old. He brought exactly what America was looking for to this show; raw talent, humility, and authenticity.

[@Boskibro]

I was bawling. I don’t blame Iam for losing it a bit. Imagine losing your father who inspired you to sing, singing this song at an audition and now you are singing it on national TV with James Blunt… Hes about to win it all and in the back of his mind he probably just wishes pops could see it. 😢

[@kaisatevaga6910]

😢

[@jimichill916]

Oh he does! I bet his dad sees it all! 🕊️🙏☁️

[@paigeherrin29]

Uhhhh… me too… I’m a blubbering mess rn.

[@jesseb9362]

Hey @Jesse A I'm Jesse B, nice to meet you

[@vheth5968]

100% AGREE.

[@marshallmcelmurry7087]

James Blunt gets all the respect in the world from me for doing his damnedest to carry this performance and be a rock for that young man. That young man gets a ton of respect for pushing thru... Just amazingly emotional and beautiful performance...

[@riskyyy-iwnl]

Indeed but go watch his audition of this song if you didn't already have...

[@tinntinnamp]

@@riskyyy-iwnl yes his audition was nice but nothing compared to James blunts actual song, check that out if you didn't already have indeed haha

[@DaRealMavrick]

My father just passed away April 2024. I miss him so much. I’m happy I stumbled across this touching song, the day before Fathers Day. I love you Daddy. 😢❤

[@JayTeejee547]

Iam tongi quote with Rolling Stone about this performance: “It finally hit me at that moment,” Tongi tells Rolling Stone. “My dad always told me that I’m gonna make it one day and that he probably wouldn’t be around to see me be successful.” “When I was on stage, I was crying because I was thinking about when he said that to me. He was hoping this for me since the beginning,” he adds.

[@TheNortonmon]

WHO CUT ONIONS HERE AHHHHH

[@pilly342]

💜

[@zekegonzaldi6230]

🥲🥲🥲

[@SB-jn5ge]

💔💔💔🙌

[@ActionRicker]

This might be the most powerful performance I’ve ever seen. Thank you

[@jxt1661]

This was a perfectly imperfect performance. The moments where they broke made it a million times more epic.

[@stevendworr]

How can you watch this and not cry? Im a 45 yr old man and i cant imagine the day i have to go thru this. This is absolutely amazing.

[@karenhardie1132]

I told myself I wasn't going to cry, but that didn’t work. James Blunt did a good job keeping it going and helping him with the tears. That is a really beautiful song.

[@BlackzSheep]

😢😢 same here 😢😢

[@tammaraflake5685]

You set yourself up for failure. I knew I was crying!

[@melchivers9050]

❤❤ same here!! I agree JB did a good job keeping it going.🎉

[@candyliggett477]

James was awesome showing Iam support everyone was crying.

[@brileygabriel4949]

I didn't even bother to tell myself that... I already knew....😭😭

[@innabit5293]

CONGRATULATIONS IAM!!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!! SCREAMING ALL THE WAY FROM HAWAII!!!

[@SidqiTp]

So glad he wins, well deserved!

[@tmahue9541]

Yayyyyyyy ❤❤❤

[@princedion99]

Congratulations Iam Idol winner

[@RenoP9999]

Before Trending #1 again, Iam King of Trending

[@dripz9777]

He is in Hawaii braddah 😂

[@bobdos4077]

Absolutely incredible. Shout out to James blunt, what a class act.

[@bobbyjones5381]

JAMES HAS ONE OF THE BEST VOICES IN MUSIC, SO UNDERRATED..

[@MrBarberGuy]

The touching moment was when they embraced, James kissed Ian's cheek. That's a brother from another mother moment and a lesson to all.

[@ma53jg]

Thank you James Blunt for performing "Monsters" with Iam Tongi. This performance will always be remembered for its authenticity, humanity and beauty. When James changed the lyrics as he touched Iam's arm-my goodness. You both make the world a better place.

[@aliceelrod8344]

Wow, yes. He did change the lyrics! How perfect was that? What a beautiful song and an unforgettable performance. I love both of these incredible artists.

[@justme307]

I'm not sure how he changed the lyrics, as the song is "feel my hand on your arm" which is the line he sang in this performance. In the music video of the song when this line is sung his dad touches James' arm.

[@t.roberts]

@@justme307 the original lyrics are “you can feel my hand on your own”

[@vendettachesmore9703]

Sad I'm sorry for his loss this was the best performance Last night

[@ma53jg]

@@t.roberts, yes, when I looked up the lyrics that is what it says.

[@devj.3887]

This is what the world desperately needs to be reminded of....the real treasures of our lives is not chasing gold or land or power or ego, but relationships, memories and love... Just love Thank you James and thank you Iam.... Just beautiful ❤

[@cupcakegaming797]

James blunt picking up as soon as Iam cried and stopped singing was amazing

[@keahisalvador1186]

The single most intense and powerful moment on idol history! Wow

[@ruthyocke823]

Amen..

[@blessed1940]

For sure.

[@raidersfanallday]

Maybe tied with Kelly’s piece by piece performance

[@digitallygmastered4432]

100%

[@autk]

Not.Even.close.

[@ItsMeJustJade]

That look to James at 1:16 was literally 'bro, i need you 💔' and James understood the assignment 100% did not miss a beat ❤️🥹

[@RangerEnigma]

And then the hand on your arm moment. He knew Iam needed that.

[@ryanscott14]

I also need that right now. Not the same thing but a hug. I was always a James Blunt fan but he is a real one.

[@xxkayzoxx8595]

The maturity in Iam has shown, he’s evolved in every performance from being a shy kid to being an American Idol Legend! Everyone watch this season because of him!! Including the whole state of Hawaii!

[@SB-jn5ge]

💯🌴🌺💖

[@juliebrooks1980]

This song hits differently with me. It’s a beautiful song if you had a good father. If your father was the monster, it breaks your heart for that relationship you never had.

[@jf2094]

I love my own father... but I cried hard for all those children whose fathers are the monsters and will never have a beautiful relationship with them. It's a different kind of loss.

[@donleetaylor196]

You have to love James Blunt for the love and compassion he shows Iam Tongi.

[@dariodatravla]

James Blunt is the most underrated singer and songwriter of all time. He is so intense and beautiful. I loved this version with Iam Tongi... so touching!

[@SmokeymcJoint420]

When Back To Bedlam came out I must have listened to it nonstop for like 6 months.

[@mikewilliams3587]

Love the guy

[@eshelmanfuailelagi5301]

Love James for what he did awesome

[@Tbagrightwingers69]

Yes i don’t understand how he’s not more mainstream in America specially after he released “same mistake” good god that’s a powerful song as well.

[@alwayshappy552]

He can’t sing

[@DanHurstRally]

The older I get, the more I realise what a true musical genius James Blunt is. This was incredible ❤

[@roralveszy6886]

In agreement 💯

[@riskyyy-iwnl]

Same lol haha

[@napoleonmozar7936]

Agree

[@wetflannel6343]

This. So fucking much! Having a child makes you a big fucking pushover pile of mush and james blunt definitely ticks boxes 🤣🤣

[@vinayrai2747]

Same here mate.

[@Kobi-w9w]

Tongi is an amazing talented young man and James Blunt is the real deal serving in the army and always the professional guiding the young Tongi. Look at the way he can't continue and looked across at Blunt who came in straight away to keep it going. Raw feelings and emotions.

[@toddandrews1030]

Anyone who has lost their father this hits home. For those who still have their father....tell them you love them!

[@noahpriestley7572]

In tears listening to this. Although 20 years wasn't enough he lives on forever. I've never met another soul quite like his

[@vinveeval2389]

I lost him 27yrs ago 😭💔

[@judithescalon3644]

Lost mine just a few months ago and this really hits home

[@Forsakenxscarface]

Lost my father December 15th 2019 I will never forget. Time doesn't heal it just hides the scars and pain.

[@mattpage7423]

Lost mine 1-27-10 at 7:00 in the morning it hits hard

[@ilaisaaneoakley7536]

The raw emotion from Mr James Blunt is what really sent Iam over. Two different styles of singing but both heart felt & gut wrenching. Thank you Mr Blunt for helping Iam get through this song. Lets Go Iam!!! Cheeehooo Tonga STAND UP!! ❤🇹🇴🇹🇴🇹🇴

[@vendettachesmore9703]

Agree it was amazing

[@windymustafa8529]

Up the T’z🇹🇴✨🫶🏽

[@philosophy_bot4171]

Beep bop... I'm the Philosophy Bot. Here, have a quote: "The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man's heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy" ~ Albert Camus

[@bvelazquez123]

I loved it When Blunt sang “You can feel my hand on your arm” at 1:30 as he put his hand on his arm… powerful moment 😢

[@JW-qf2fx]

And the real lyrics are "feel my hand on your own', he changed it just for this moment. King move.

[@reviewer968]

Got him through the song 😢

[@bvelazquez123]

Yeah amazing moment for sure. It gave me chills

[@firstinthedance]

@@JW-qf2fx No. It is James' song. Every time he sings it, and in the official music video, he says "arm." I think people may have just misunderstood him due to his accent. I know pretty much every lyric site says "own" and Iam also sang "own" in his audition, but James would be the authority on the correct lyrics, since it is his song. It was sweet though when he reached out to Iam. By all accounts, James seems like a pretty great guy.

[@RaceBannon-x1u]

Should be nominated for an award for best live performances.

[@elaineharrington-x5r]

Without reservation, I can say these two men were raised by two real world class fathers showing love to their son. This wicked world needs 100's of millions more of these men. I am so happy these men were fortunate to be blessed with their fathers. I am 69 years old man who never had a real father. having one telling me how much he loved me could have changed my life forever. Just one time. Not one who was step father who took great joy in beating me mercifully as he laughed about it. And a blood father who ran off with another woman and abandoned my sister and I. My wife of 46 years was never able to have children so I never had a son to love like a real father should. I was never able to tell a son how much I love him. I love my wife and leaving her because she couldn't have children never interred my mind. To do that would go against everything true love Stands for. So I prayer is that we die together at the same time or hours apart. Maybe we will be in the emergency room side by side holding hands as we pass away. That would only be fair. Fathers love your sons and daughters. Sons and daughters love your father because one day they will pass. My God bless you all.

[@muneca707]

His mom. She sees him crying and holds herself together to be strong in front of him when inside she weeps. She grieves the loss of her husband and breaks seeing her son sad. Yet still she puts on a brave face for her son’s sake. My heart goes out to both of them. Beautiful performance. May Iam’s frowns be outnumbered by smiles ❤ congrats, well deserved win 🥇

[@knmustafa]

My music is good yall

[@meannoname7210]

🤙❤️

[@lisacaudill5908]

Very well said,I believe the same thing...they are both very strong individuals..yet very strong at keeping one another together knowing their hearts are breaking everytime this song is sang or played...but james and iam did a really really good duet together..both sharing similar experiences..except one did lose his battle..my heart breaks for them..May God bless Iam and the rest of the Tongi family and give them the strength to grieve and try to move on and take their "Monster away"..❤ and peace...#TEAMTONGI

[@jdparas]

This is probably the most emotional, heartfelt performance in American Idol history. Iam, your mom and especially your dad is very proud of you.

[@rogerargueta5769]

It is... it really is.

[@gonziq6226]

I agree

[@realdex]

and piece by piece by Kelly Clarkson. Can't remember which season tho.

[@DM-by5sr]

Hands down, definitely!

[@richatlarge462]

​@@realdex yes I was thinking the same.

[@colekempinski5818]

Never cried more in a season for one person. I love Iam.

[@Angrybritishguy]

The one the best song ever made where real men come together and cry together

[@djdoc06]

At 49, James Blunt is old enough to be Iam Tongi’s father. Seeing them sing this and experiencing the shared emotions over their own fathers (James’s father who was saved by a transplant, and Iam’s father who did die), and James reaching out to Iam as he is overcome momentarily… Extraordinary moment and extraordinary song.

[@Thiccness_Is_Delicious]

Heard the song for the first time today in a playlist on the way home, I lost my old man back in 2018 to a stroke at 1:57am on Monday morning and that memory of him taking his last breath will never stop playing over and over in my head and this song brought it full circle in pure vividness so bad I had to pull over to cry. But it also made me realize he may be gone but he'll never be forgotten as long as we keep his memories alive.

[@harrycallender]

🤗

[@viberismat730]

​@@Thiccness_Is_Delicioussorry dear 😢

[@David-yz7de]

I don't believe any other performance has ever touched so many hearts.

[@mrmrskaharris5522]

James Blunt is such a great person. Supporting and helping Iam with their emotional performance. Truly a kind, gifted Professional.

[@AmitKumar-uc8pp]

James blunt man with a pure heart ❤

[@Ukulelevis]

I‘ve never seen a more powerful song than Iam Tongi And Jame Blunt🥺 singing together!🤙🏽 Monster

[@aileneshots]

I mean who has ever given their friends the mic like he did at the end? He just loved his friends & was cool to share the spotlight. So loving & what a good heart!

[@SB-jn5ge]

🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@garfeeld8884]

Mr blunt is such a class act. He helped Iam through this. Then again, Iam helped him get the number one spot on iTunes tonight …well deserved.

[@VerneseMap]

James you are a professional. I keep playing this song over and over .this song is so sweet❤

[@HowlPendragon]

Iam deserves this win. He's so amazing. I cried tears I didn't know I had.

[@SB-jn5ge]

💯🙌💜💜💜

[@OTFStudios]

Balled my face off. This is the greatest idol performance of all time and the greatest winner. Aloha wins.

[@ruthyocke823]

Amen

[@daniellefrith3472]

Amen 🙏🏽

[@Solo11983]

James Blunt hand was shaking so hard. I wonder how much he hold back, to not only able to finish the song, but even help and embrace Iam! Absolutely beautiful and class act. An amazing showcase of seniority and brotherhood! Congratulation Iam Tongi, May god blesses you abundantly with happiness, successes and good health.

[@ce7768]

Y'all really saw all of it bc i have watched this repeatedly and my eyes are filled with tears everytime to notice. I just noticed it now..

[@YvonneMendez-l9c]

One of the most heart wrenching songs ever so beautiful dad im your daughters but this is for you 😢❤

[@mleeski357]

Realizing how many times Iam probably heard this song in his room while thinking about his father, and seeing how him seeing James sing the chorus live broke him down….what a performance man, Bravo to both of them.

[@robertturner6939]

That was hands down THE MOST meaningful performance for both of those artists. James Blunt most important time singing that song I’m sure! Congrats Iam! What an accomplishment. I can barely type this.

[@iri3977]

I hear you - I need a new Samsung...my ultra's so soggy 😥 truly heart wrenching!!

[@sharongaskell]

Just rewatched James's original version then a couple of solo performances. He puts out 100% every time he sings it, no matter the venue. He did the same thing singing with Iam. In the original, his dad put his hand on his arm at the same place James put his on Iams. His dad's comforting pat at the end of the original was the hug James gave Iam. Such an experience -- not a performance but an experience -- magical, real, transcendent, heart breaking and life affirming. Thank you James.

[@meannoname7210]

Yes! Thank you @jamesblunt for comforting and supporting Iam @wtongi ❤️❤️❤️

[@charliepreidis3004]

Wow, beautifully said.

[@staciemahoe]

Very much so.

[@benoitpuech3536]

The way James Blunt puts his hand on Iam Tongi’s arm when he started to cry, to comfort him and brought him through, also triggered my tears

[@politicalparadox788]

hollywood ending for Iam.. so well deserved. It's super rare for artists to hit the soul like Iam does - glad I got to experience it

[@royalcoug]

This will be recognized as one of the iconic performances of American Idol -- ever

[@Harpoon2theRescue]

What about Bikini Girl!

[@808Target808]

Super emotional, you could feel Iam's struggle during this performance. Love that Jelly Roll was with mom... and how when Iam looked at James, James turned to him in support and helped him thru the song... love this!

[@RyanMckay]

Absolutely love James Blunt. His eccentric enthusiasm often heals a broken soul. Adore Iam. Sending more happy vibes his way.❤

[@efurn7967]

Iam has been using music to grieve his dad. James Blunt’s song has become an anthem of his mourning. The power of good music and lyrics. Such a great song. And Iam’s grieving heart powers that song into the halls of everyone’s memory. That’s the power of a master story teller. Congratulations Iam Tongi. You made me vote for the first time. Lava you!!

[@ruthyocke823]

We lava Iam..aloha

[@smtoki]

So well said🙏

[@SteveCrider-c2r]

Tremendous courage it took for IAM to sing this song under such pressure!!!

[@trevorius123]

Before this video, I didn't even know if I liked James Blunt. Now, I love James Blunt!

[@debbiegademan4032]

Then you should listen to the girl who never was. That is the mother of all respect for what James blunt can do

[@tomba47]

U are beautiful

[@haongo1411]

You are beautiful - I heard this song via radio all the times, and all shops in UK back in 2007-2008, and 1973….love him since then

[@AmiraLeo]

​@@debbiegademan4032The Girl Who Never Was, Monsters and No Bravery are all absolute masterpieces of vulnerability. ❤

[@KaylubCarter]

Imagine falling in love with a song you heard and it becomes a big part of your life and then to get the chance to sing the song with the original artist. He did better than I would’ve. ❤

[@Prophlor]

Love how Iam took us to the depths of personal connection and loss while James helped him navigate the water works, both shaking with emotion. Touched to the core.

[@richstalks2555]

We are proud of James blunt , such a great artist and he helped Tongi through such a sad performance 🇬🇧

[@Ryu.Hayashi]

I am awed by the fact Army Captain Blunt married to the house of Duke of Wellington, what a gentleman

[@tritamtran7264]

ok

[@cherylannebarillartist7453]

For Iam to perform this song while his emotions are still SO raw takes amazing courage and dedication. Wow.

[@echoblisschannel]

Tongi & Blunt you make our world more beautiful. Thank you for this great duet.

[@JunefeJoyAbarintos]

Not a dry eye in the world! We love you Iam and James Blunt!

[@tongasamoa89]

That’s fact

[@blessed1940]

For sure. Some people lost their mothers, so mommy while you're sleeping, I am trying to make you proud. Just close your eyes and rest. Oh lord. This is deep.

[@filipppanarin8501]

Next time James is touring in your area, BUY TICKETS. One of the most amazing live performers I've ever seen. Leaves it on the stage every night. Just incredible stuff.

[@celineherold]

I can definitely agree 😊

[@py528]

I hope to see James Blunt live one day.🥰

[@suehakam]

Absolutely agree! James' writing of this song and the outpouring of the love he has for his dad and that he shares with us when he sings this song, is beyond moving and soul touching! Iam described it beautifully in an interview, when he described James' voice as "sounding like heartbreak", which is what he said made him break down while performing with James. James' performance here is so supportive and compassionate, which made me respect him so much as both a person and an awesome performer. The combination of their voices here is breathtaking! I would love to see James' perform live! I hope James can come and tour in America, hopefully on the East Coast!

[@ce7768]

I will. Following him on all social media now so hopefully he comes somewhere near me in the US (ATL)

[@kingdom_mindset6646]

Yup this is gonna be #1 trending for WEEKS! Congrats Iam! You won for the whole of Polynesia 🇹🇴🇹🇴🇹🇴

[@lovedove2661]

❤

[@iri3977]

Āe, tika tō kōrero!! Kia ora, within the Pasifik rim o AotearoaNZ 🇹🇴🇳🇿🇹🇴

[@adzbugz2643]

Wow.. Everytime I hear this.. It makes me tear up.. What a song.. So powerful! Both of their dads will ever be so damn proud 🩵

[@timrod94]

Personally, I haven’t watched American Idol in years. But this season was amazing because of this guy. Every time I’d go on Social Media I’d see his name being mentioned in the news. He was real and honest about who he was and that’s why so many people were gravitated towards him. Well done Iam Tongi! You deserved this moment.

[@KeepSmiling447]

🥰🥰🥰

[@flippertwentyeight]

And for him to be 18 yrs old....just a baby....and have this effect on people. AMAZING ❤❤

[@99iwaena]

Yup, same here!💯❤️

[@jeriabagsiao7592]

same

[@preciousvillasis6730]

I agree

[@taput4175]

Didn't think a performance could make me cry as much as Iam Tongi's audition on American Idol. I was freakin wrong!! Iam Tongi and James Blunt singing Monsters together 😭😭Even Katy Perry couldn't hold back her tears this time! Congratulations Iam Tongi!! 😭🇹🇴🤙🏽❤️

[@jaynicho2007]

How professional is James Blunt he could see him falling apart and he took control of the song, a beautiful moment x

[@patriciahitt1445]

James blunt is a true gentleman. He could have used this opportunity to make himself the center of attention But he didn't. He Saw this young man struggling And he put a comforting hand on his Shoulder. A true gentleman