American Idol winner Iam Tongi dedicates a song to those affected by devastating wildfires in Hawaii
American Idol winner Iam Tongi now lives in the Seattle area with his family, but throughout the competition he frequently spoke about the deep connection he and his family maintain with Hawaii. He has shared that his family left the islands because of financial struggles, yet his affinity for the islands and their people remains central to his identity and his music.
Following the devastating wildfires that struck Maui and destroyed the historic town of Lahaina, Iam responded with a heartfelt message and a musical tribute. He posted a video dedicating a rendition of “Starting All Over Again” to those who lost their homes, expressing sorrow, solidarity and a desire to help in whatever way he could.
“The devastating news of Maui hits harder than I can express… I have thought and rethought about ways I could help the people of Maui because I feel incapable seeing people donating so much money that I don’t have and talking with family members and watching videos of people helping each other has made me realize that there’s so much more way to help…”
“If you’re donating money, any amount would help as long we try to make sure it’s going to the right hands… if you can’t donate money, we can look into other ways of donating whether it be clothing, food, time, etc… anyway, the only talent I have is music and wanted to dedicate this song by Mel and Tim sing by the great Bruddah Iz… I love you Maui and you’re always in my prayers.”
Iam’s message emphasized both practical help and the emotional support he feels for the Maui community. Rather than offering a checklist of organizations, he urged followers to verify that donations reach trusted hands, and to consider non-monetary contributions where appropriate—clothing, food, volunteer time, and community support. He made clear that music is the gift he can offer, using his platform and voice to honor those affected and to raise awareness.
The tribute underlines how artists can respond to tragedy: by lending visibility, sharing resources and directing fans toward thoughtful, verified giving. Iam’s post reflected personal sorrow for the losses suffered in Lahaina while also offering a practical call to action for people who want to help but may be unsure how to start.
Iam performs a live version of a new song “Come Through”
Beyond his response to the Maui wildfires, Iam Tongi has remained active on the road. He recently completed a summer tour that included several stops in California. Among the highlights were two sold-out shows at the Troubadour in West Hollywood on July 24 and 25, demonstrating his growing popularity and the strong fan support he has built since winning American Idol.
He also returned to Hawaii for a concert celebrating Ohana Day, performing in Kahuku on July 1. These appearances reflect Tongi’s continued ties to his home and his intent to remain connected to Hawaiian audiences as his career expands.
Iam is scheduled to return to live performances this fall, beginning September 9 at the Holo Holo Music Festival in Wheatland, California. Fans should check his official channels and social pages for the most current tour dates and ticket information.
While at the Troubadour, Iam shared a live performance of an original song titled “Come Through.” In his caption he wrote, “Me and the boiz (krispy pork band) perform an original (come through),” highlighting the collaborative energy of his live shows and the role of his band in bringing new music to life for audiences.
Live performances like the Troubadour set show Tongi developing as a songwriter and entertainer, balancing powerful ballads and intimate new originals that reflect his Pacific Islander roots and contemporary pop influences.
Iam Tongi’s recent activity underscores two recurring themes: the responsibility he feels as a public figure to respond to crises that affect his community, and his commitment to growing as a live performer who writes and shares original music. Whether dedicating a classic song to people who lost their homes in Maui or debuting new material on stage, Tongi continues to center empathy and community in his work.
For fans and those following his journey, his messages and performances provide both a reminder of the human impact behind news events and a musical outlet for support. As he continues touring and releasing music, his focus remains clear: to honor the places and people who shaped him and to use his platform to help where he can.