James Blunt Gives Us A BTS Look At His American Idol Duet With Iam Tongi On "Monsters"

We are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the incredibly talented James Blunt, right here at American Songwriter Studios. In this captivating conversation, James opens up about the inspiration behind his moving song "Monsters" and the personal story that influenced its creation. Additionally, he shares his experience performing a memorable duet with the talented Iam Tongi on American Idol. Join us as we dive deep into James Blunt's creative process, musical influences, and the emotional connections that make his music so powerful. Don't miss this intimate discussion with one of the industry's most acclaimed artists. Subscribe to our channel for more captivating interviews and behind-the-scenes content from American Songwriter Studios.
• James Blunt Gives Us A...
0:00 - 1:39 On “Monsters” Inspiration
1:40 - 2:42 What About Your Dad Makes Him Your Hero
2:43 - 3:28 How Did You Translate Your Fathers Influence To The Song?
3:29 - 4:12 Why Do You Think That Song Fell Out So Quickly?
4:13 - 5:27 Is Music Your Preferred Way To Express Emotion?
5:28 - 6:58 On Writing “Monsters”
6:59 - 8:25 What Were The Most Vulnerable Lyrics To Write In The Song?
8:26 - 9:10 On The Lyric “Let There Be No Darkness In Your Heart”
9:11 - 10:39 Did You KNow That Iam Tongi Was Going To Audition With “Monsters”?
10:40 - 11:51 How Did The Opportunity To Perform That Song With Him Come About?
11:52 - 13:23 How Did You Guys Approach The Song Together?
13:24 - 14:11 What Does “Monsters” Mean To You Now In 2023?
14:12 - 14:58 Any Final Thoughts For Us On “Monsters”?
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#americanidol #jamesblunt #iamtongi

[@wxkat]

That Iam’s audition has now racked up some 21 million views as of this post is a testament to both Iam’s storytelling and James’s songwriting. I imagine their duet during the American Idol season finale was probably the most emotional moment in the show’s season, if not its entire history.

[@KatHenderson.]

I hope that Iam @officialiamtongi sees this wonderful interview. James is such an amazingly talented person, and a lovely one too.

[@eshelmanfuailelagi5301]

Thanks James for being gentle with iam

[@martypowell5723]

@eshelmanfuailelagi5301 that was so touching when he put his hand on his arm ❤️

[@terrisato]

I blame Iam for my recent “addiction” to James Blunt. Can’t get enough 😍.

[@AurorJeffrey]

I think Iam's version is like a lullaby. Like he's singing his father to sleep, for the last time.

[@randylove]

It was so cool u kissed Iam Tongi in the neck and gave him a big hug he adores u and so do I

[@cissyt4714]

What a beautiful and talented person James Blunt is, and I loved what he had to say about Iam Tongi, spot on.

[@TheJenkins9]

When Iam was breaking down, I am sure millions of people like me were just hit--wanting him to win the competition, wanting him to perform well but most of all wanting him to be ok in that moment as we collectively felt his grief and pain...Thank you for being there, reaching out emotionally and physically. Powerful example of humanity.

[@kailuagirl]

James Blunt is a class act. What a wonderful person.❤

[@markbest4172]

Great song coming from the True Heart ❤❤❤

[@markbest4172]

I lost my dad a few years ago and that song brings us all to the real world it hurts . ❤❤❤

[@TheMegolas1]

I’m so elated to know there is a humble, charming person behind that beautiful voice and heart-wrenching lyrics.

[@debratate3007]

Love both versions and was so touched by your compassion for Iam when he needed it during the finale .. God Bless you both

[@TheMegolas1]

This song hit me like a freight train the first time I heard it. I cared for my mom as she was dying and James captured so much of that experience. I still can’t listen without crying. It’s an exceptional song.

[@masoncochraniii7671]

I personally think that both of their versions of Monsters are beautifully touching. I can’t say I’m a huge fan of all of James Blunts music, but I am a huge fan of him as a person. I do hope he has many years left with his father.

[@OTFStudios]

James, you are a legend. Your music is a gift. I look forward to hearing your new work later this year.

[@Hat5858]

James...what a gorgeous, moving , EPIC song. The Idol performance with Iam was like no other. I am certain your father was proud.

[@gloriakrueger6774]

What a wonderful, wonderful interview!! Thank you, James, for writing such a beautiful song with lyrics that you feel deep in your soul!! Thank you for singing with Iam and giving us the most emotional and unforgettable moment in Idol history, perhaps in TV history!!

[@sallycanfield2775]

Thank you Mr. Blunt!❤ Appreciate you taking the time to be with I AM, making part of his dreams come true.😊

[@randylove]

Thanks for saying iam Tongis voice is from heaven Hes a God sent. unsure why God only puts a small amount of good people on this earth, rather than putting tons of good people on this earth .u a great guy James .hope to hear more of u. i waited this long to hear this story of why u wrote this song. thank u so much

[@martypowell5723]

I'm a daughter, not a son. I lost my Daddy in 2014 & this song had the memories of that last day flooding back 😢 I would love a version from Father & Daughter that i could put to a video in honor of my Dad.

[@brian12892]

I’m so sorry for your loss. 🙏🏽 While James’s song is absolutely incredible, if you’re looking for an existing father/daughter song, might I recommend “Dance With My Father Again” by Luther Vandross. ❤

[@BruceMcKay-gq8yq]

Thanks James for the explanation, I tear up every time I hear the song

[@tmahue9541]

❤ love your song James. Big fan of Iam too. Xx

[@gelvenvencer4548]

One of the best songs this generation created...thanks mr. James Blunt..

[@debbieknight2677]

James Blunt, thank you for helping IAM TONGI you are Amazing !! IAM IS AMAZING !! I LOVE YOU BOTH ❤❤❤❤❤ ❤

[@crl7413]

Your song helps so many to connect, forgive and express their love. Tears of love.

[@dianeritthaler7792]

Beautiful tribute to your Father❤James. Glad hes still with you. Thank you for the Kindness you showed Iam Im so glad he won🎉

[@RosaRamirez-tj2xx]

Thank you James! God Bless you!

[@shhhaua9426]

I will always love this song now ! I cry everytime I hear it …Mahalo 🤙🏾

[@martypowell5723]

I could listen to it 100 times & still cry every time. I miss my Dad so much. My Mom also.

[@fayesang4035]

Mr James Blunt I watched and listened in tears when you duet with Mr Tongi. Thank you for your meaningful lyrics in your song.

[@teresamay6981]

Your song this grandma 👵 loves I never heard it until iam sang it for his farther who passed away 💔 then when I heard you both sing it I saw the compassion and the emotion in your voice the crying was beautiful that you both did how you consoled him hugged him and kissed him there wasn't a dry eye in the house this grandma thinks you both have a beautiful soul ❤❤😢😢

[@mikekim1219]

I learn this song after Iam Tongi. Thank you. Great song

[@tcat6133]

An absolute masterpiece, this song…

[@rudir6826]

Lots of love sending ur way from the South pacific islands James, please dont stop making beautiful songs❤🙏🤙

[@LawandaBurke-tg1jo]

I believe there was devine intervention in the whole process. So many of us can relate. Ty

[@kathyakuhata8165]

James Blunt, you are a talented Englishman and I loved your performance singing your amazing song " Monsters "with Iam...Thank you James for being so kind to Iam...❤

[@jamesbluntupdates]

What a great in depth interview! Thank you! He said "new music coming out in October". 😍 14:30

[@bebic7903]

Thank you James and American Songwriter for this beautiful and heartfelt interview. It's made me appreciate you, James, along with your song, "Monsters" even more than before. Blessings!

[@daiseeeeeeeeee]

James blunt will always be my favs! ❤️❤️

[@randylove]

U were great with Iam Tongi Iam introduced u to me as I never heard of u so thank u both for that song u both sung

[@dianeritthaler7792]

I found out about this song because of Iam Tongi. So beautifully written ❤ the performance with you and Iam was so Powerful You helped Iam get through it. ❤

[@user-hg2wd6wy8r]

U and iam are great singers love both

[@aitakirmam3009]

See, that's why his music go straight to people's souls. He's so honest and open, and such a talented songwriter and musician. What an amazing artist ❤

[@1dash133]

Well done ... the original song ... the duet ... this interview. Well done. 🌅🌝☀

[@tinatreitler9192]

I luved Iam Tongis audition and he was my fav to win on the spot!! His voice is so unique and the nuances are so heart moving!! His whole personality is sweet and genuine showing he had amazing parents! I had heard your song Monsters a number of times and noted how deeply seeded its meaning is. I didn't know that your father got the last minute transplant match saving his life until Iams story became front and center on Idol. All the contestants have back stories but Iams was so in the moment and fresh. I have to give him credit for pushing thru as we know his dad would've wanted for him! I never faltered in knowing he'd win against the many talented contestants.( My top 4 were in the top 5) The performance of Monster together is none other than EPIC. I could feel the depth of both of you in the core of the song. Yours voice is so intense and Iams is so silky and the mutual respect you showed each other was absolutely evident and beautiful!! I watch the video regularly!! It shows that perfection can be imperfection mixed with true emotion!!!I now have two all time fav performances on AI, your and Iams and Kelly Clarkstons performance of "Piece by Peace" which is the polar opposite experience with her father...but Equally poignant!!!❤❤❤

[@filmmayker]

Much gratitude, American Songwriter ✨

[@leighstevens1075]

Cooked to perfection James❤ This interview, along with the performance on AGT solidifies what a gracious gentleman you are. A shout out to your sister; I believe 'monsters' started with a poem she wrote for your Dad? Heartfelt words to any one who hears them. Thank you. Always look forward to whats coming next. ...

[@kathyakuhata8165]

I never knew of you and had never heard the song " Monsters " until Iam sang the song at his AI audition...Fantastic Thank you James blunt, I must listen to some of your other songs...the song "beautiful" that you mentioned... will look it up...

[@teresamay6981]

Thank you James this old lady can't wait until October I would love to see you and Ed sheeran do a song together I would definitely download it and another song with you and iam would be awesome to 😢😢thank you for this interview 👵 ❤

[@theresadillon9326]

I've always loved your music, James, but didn't know much about you personally. This interview shows what a special person you are. It was deeply touching to see you sing with Iam, comforting and guiding him. I hope you keep in touch with Iam and help protect and guide him through his career.

[@dianeritthaler7792]

Iam had a great Father. Too bad he lost him so young😢

[@alvinpalvin1440]

Best song writer ever! Love all your songs as it relates to our everyday lives. Such an amazing talented song writer James Blunt❤

[@scorapci]

James Blunt you are a great singer song writer.I love the song 'monsters' the words are so touching emotional😢

[@alvinaawong357]

Thank you for sharing your testimony of your being inspired by your father to honor him in this way. Thank you also for this because it spoke volumes for Iam and his love for his dad. Aloha from Hawaii 🌺🤗🕊️🔥🌹

[@monikabeki6838]

With his American idol performance I became a huge James Blunt fan! I underrated this singer and I think he is a beautiful human being, being real, true and so emphatic. That what makes a great artist and man! Thanks to James that these feelings and believes are still possible in this pop machinery!

[@user-qb4yq3fe6w]

Absolutely beautiful briefings, 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️, to you and your entire family James'. From Australia.

[@user-yk2po8ds8z]

Sweet , sweet, sweet, young man an absolute darling

[@moonsis7]

Such a beautiful song! One of the most beautiful of all songs.

[@tomikasmith]

I really needed to hear this interview. I cry everytime I see Iam's and James' performance. This interview really helped me. Thank you.

[@amiraxperimentalx]

Two songs James Blunt has written and reminds me of my dad, one is "The Same Mistake", second is "Monsters".

[@nannatheme8083]

It is very hot in Ibiza! Waiting for your new songs ❤️

[@jasonxoc]

Wow, I never really got into James Blunt but I am now… What a great guy! Got a new musical / songwriting rabbit hole to go down :)

[@Ellias31773]

I am a father of 3 kids. My father left the family when I was 4 but still this song hit me so hard right in the heart. I'm not sure why I was crying the first time I heard this song and everytime I hear this song. Maybe deep down I am still a boy who is longing for a father figure but I will make sure my kids will not go through the same hardship as mine.

[@pennreelfishing]

I still cry watching the video. 51 years old and 6 kids . From a Aitutaki Cook Islander

[@vickieramirez1467]

Both preform excellent

[@thenewage9723]

James blunt the man

[@manuelaalves9354]

You are so touching.We love you my sons have also a Great Admiratio for you😊❤

[@gingerjohnson4154]

You are amazing. Your song touched me so as my husband passed away in Feb of this year.

[@angelapirone4119]

You have such a beautiful soul. God bless you❤

[@kayclark8403]

Amazing talent love your voice ❤🇦🇺

[@peterd788]

James Blunt is a very talented guy who writes great songs he can seemingly effortlessly play and sing. He has room around him which allows him to deliver great performances regardless of the circumstances. You see that only very rarely. Bruce Springsteen has it and if he has a sore throat he's going to perform brilliantly with a sore throat. It's not an excuse but another way to be good.

[@Seeingisbelieving82]

Beautiful

[@AdamDorfman82]

he should get Iam on his new music

[@mtshedamarunyane5465]

This guy must perform at funerals