Katy Perry breaks down in tears during American Idol winner's final performance

22 May 2023 , 08:41

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Katy Perry breaks down in tears during American Idol winner's final performance

Katy Perry was moved to tears during the American Idol finale as winner Iam Tongi gave his final performance.

The 18-year-old singer, who made history as the youngest male winner of the show, performed a powerful rendition of Keith Urban's song Making Memories of Us.

Ahead of his performance, Iam opened up about his "emotional connection" to the song as he said his parents would dance to it in their kitchen.

He also revealed his late father, Rodney, used to play Keith's hits all the time.

Iam then took the stage with his guitar and delivered a moving performance which left the judges overcome with emotion.

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Following the song, Katy said: "Can I just say one thing?

Katy Perry was reduced to tears (abc)

"In between you and Megan [Danielle], I had to reach down and grab a little tissue and fold it into a triangle because every time you come on and you sing the vibration that comes out of your mouth, it goes through the weeds of people's hearts and it just gets to them.

"It moves us so much, so when you sing, I am ready to feel baby."

Judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan also admitted that they had been left in tears during the emotional performance.

Iam Tongi had an 'emotional connection' to his song choice (abc)

Lionel said: "You are an incredible story teller.

"And like Katy, I hate to say it, why am I sitting here tearing up on a song I already know but you have a great delivery."

During the finale, Iam was also joined on stage by James Blunt to sing Monsters, which he dedicated to his father.

Iam's mother Lillie said: "This is what Rodney dreamed about. He wanted everyone to hear what Iam had, and I feel like this is where he was meant to be."

Fans were quick to congratulate the singer (abc)

After the Hawaiian musician was crowned the winner, fans flocked to Twitter to congratulate him.

"Congratulations @wtongi! It was a great season of #AmericanIdol , excited to hear more of your music," one person wrote.

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Another said: "Iam's performance with James Blunt made me tear up little bit, absolutely beautiful performance."

"Congratulations Iam, we’ll done!! Now get in the recording studio. I'm ready to buy your album," a third fan urged.

Iam thanked his fans for their support as he wrote: "Thank you everyone for voting! Love all you guys! Thank you so much, yessah blessa never stressa! #idol #idolwinner."

Scarlett O'Toole