American Idol winner Iam Tongi captivated the audience with an unforgettable rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the 2023 Home Run Derby at T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners.
Standing in front of a packed baseball stadium, Tongi showcased his stunning vocals and delivered a powerful performance of The National Anthem that left a lasting impact on all who were present.
As the large screens projected his performance throughout the park, Tongi appeared confident and composed, exhibiting his immense talent and stage presence. With unwavering passion, he belted out every lyric, captivating the hearts of the spectators and instilling a sense of patriotic pride.
Stunning Rendition Of The National Anthem
However, despite his flawless delivery, Tongi took to social media to share a candid moment of vulnerability. Following his performance, he humbly admitted to forgetting to remove his hat while performing the patriotic tune.
“Tens of thousands of people. I walk out, and my uncle reminds me to remove my hat before I start singing. I remember. A few seconds later, the nerves took in and didn’t remember until it was all done. I will try to do better next time 🤙🏾,” he wrote on social media.
Issued An Apology For Not Removing His Hat
He later shared the clip to his official YouTube channel, where he apologized for not removing his hat during his performance.
“First try at singing the National Anthem. So nervous that it was in front of such a huge crowd. And apologize for being so nervous and forgot to take off the hat,” Tongi wrote in the clip’s caption.
Watch Iam Tongi’s National Anthem Performance At The 2023 Home Run Derby Below
The event provided Iam Tongi with an opportunity to display his remarkable vocal range, control, and emotional depth as he paid tribute to the country and its values.
The 2023 Home Run Derby took place on Monday (July 10) at T-Mobile Park in Seattle, Washington and feature an eight-slugger bracket that included Pete Alonso, a New York Mets slugger and two-time Home Run Derby champion, as well as Randy Arozarena of the Rays, Mookie Betts of the Dodgers, Adolis García of the Rangers, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Blue Jays, Luis Robert Jr. of the White Sox, Julio Rodríguez of the Mariners, and Adley Rutschman of the Orioles.
Who Was Named The Champion Of The 2023 Home Run Derby?
Ultimately, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the first baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays, was named the 2023 Home Run Derby champion. This achievement holds historical significance as he and his father, Guerrero Sr., have become the sole father-son duo to capture the prestigious title.
Furthermore, Guerrero Jr.’s induction into the Hall of Fame, 16 years after his father’s enshrinement, further solidifies their family’s legacy in the sport.
Returned To His Hometown For A Special Performance
Iam Tongi’s performance at the 2023 Home Run Derby comes just weeks after the 18-year-old Hawaii native returned to his hometown for a special performance in honor of “Ohana Day.”
He headlined Hawaii’s annual “Ohana Day” and performed in front of thousands of fans who were eager to see him for the first time since being crowned the winner of American Idol. The event, which took place at Oahu’s Turtle Bay Resort, also featured a performance from Reggae star Spawnbreezie, an artist who Tongi has previously covered on social media and during his time on Idol.
“Much love Ohana Day & a special shoutout to @kolohekaimusic!” he wrote alongside photos in front of the sold-out crowd at the event. “Last night was a special one 🤙🏾”
New Music In The Works
While visiting his hometown, the fast-rising star sat down with KITV4 and revealed that he is currently working on new music.
“I have a lot of new songs but I have a new single that’s about to drop. And it’s called, ‘Why Kiki?’ But not Waikiki. The girl’s name is Kiki and you’re like ‘Why Kiki?’” he shared with the outlet.
He delivered the live debut of the tune during the “Ohana Day” concert. In addition, he also recently shared a clip of the brand-new track on his Instagram as he was in the studio recorded the tune. While no official release date for the song has been unveiled, Tongi teased that the track is “coming soon” in the caption of the Instagram video.
“Why Kiki, why you wanna do me like that, Kiki. Why you wanna make me so sad Kiki, Why you got me down on my knees…” Tongi sings on the track’s chorus.
Additionally, Iam Tongi is currently embarking on his first-ever headlining tour, which kicked off on June 23 at the first annual BEACH IT! Festival in Virginia Beach.
