Relive Iam Tongi's incredible journey to the top of American Idol Season 21

Source: TVLine

The evening unfolded with the finalists singing two songs each: one mentored by guest star Keith Urban and another paying tribute to their respective hometowns. It culminated in Ryan Seacrest, the host, revealing the Top 2 contestants, who then competed with their original compositions.

Megan Danielle, a 21-year-old server from Douglasville, Georgia, opened the show with a stirring performance of Keith Urban's "God Whispered Your Name." Danielle chose this song to underscore the feeling of divine intervention and guidance, aiming to switch off the negativity and fully enjoy her performance. Her powerful rendition received rave reviews from the judges. Lionel Richie applauded the signature 'cry' in her voice, Katy Perry deemed her performance a 'gift', and Luke Bryan celebrated her flawless vocal choices throughout the competition.

Danielle returned later to the stage to dedicate a song to her hometown, Douglasville. She belted out "Faithfully" by Journey, astonishing the crowd and bringing Perry to tears with her soaring vocals. This performance was a testament to Danielle's vocal prowess and a clear indicator of her bright future in music.

Next was Iam Tongi, an 18-year-old high schooler from Kahuku, Hawaii. He wooed the crowd and got them chanting his name with a smooth and groovy performance of Keith Urban's "Making Memories of Us." Perry and Bryan were both full of praises for Tongi's unique vocal charm, calling it a natural gift from God. Tongi returned later for his tribute to his hometown, performing "Cool Down" by Kolohe Kai, which earned him commendations for his representation of his culture.

Country singer Colin Stough also held his own, impressing the audience with his rugged vocals in Keith Urban's "Stupid Boy" and Chris Stapleton's "Either Way," which he sang as a tribute to his hometown, Amory, Mississippi. Bryan celebrated Stough's artistic growth, while Perry applauded the tender sweetness in his voice.

In a shocking twist, the nationwide vote saw Stough's elimination, stirring a collective gasp among the studio audience. This unexpected turn shattered the trend of country crooners consistently winning the competition.

The night also saw emotional moments, including Tongi's heartfelt duet with James Blunt on "Monsters," the song he first auditioned with in tribute to his late father. Overcome by emotions, Tongi broke down on stage, leaving not a dry eye in the house, including Perry's.

In the final showdown, Danielle and Tongi took to the stage one last time to perform their original songs, recorded and released through "Idol". Danielle performed "Dream Girl," while Tongi sang "I'll Be Seeing You."

After the tension-filled final commercial break, Seacrest announced the results, revealing Iam Tongi as the winner. Tongi's victory was celebrated with his performance of Spawnbreezie's "Don't Let Go," as confetti rained down, and fellow contestants rushed to the stage in congratulation.

Tongi's win was groundbreaking as he is the first non-country singer to clinch the title in three years. This refreshing victory not only underscores his prodigious talent but also highlights the show's musical diversity, sending a powerful message about the wide range of musical genres appreciated on 'American Idol.'