It’s been years since American Idol actually mattered.  In my mind… it’s a show full of warbling wannabee divas … who can stretch out the word you… and make it last for 10 seconds of scales and trills and drama …and okay whatever.  But this season was different. 

Iam Tongi is from Hawaii… moved to Seattle… and then straight into the hearts of viewers… because his talent isn’t flashy finesse.  It’s the emotional connection he creates.  This was his audition…  a little biography…
…and then this.

Just 18 years old… With his simple singing voice… he left the celebrity hosts in tears… 

On social media .that clip is the most viewed audition in Idol’s history.  And in a season where this Tv show that’s way past its’ prime.  Where they’d resort to any trick to build interest…   for goodness sake… King Charles did a cameo the day after his coronation… 

Nice down-to-earth fella… right?
Contrast that artifice with the joy of Iam Dongi singing straight from his soul…. and you have American Idol’s new champion.  He doesn’t look like a star… he doesn’t sing like a diva… but for authenticity… he’s off the chart.  And on the chart.  This afternoon he's #1 on iTunes.