On Sunday night (May 21), after months of auditions, solo highs, goodbyes, duets, and travels to California and Hawaii, everything came to a head as America decided on its Idol.
For those who were passengers for the 21st edition, the winner had already made his announcement months earlier. The grand finale provided evidence for what many people already believed.
Iam Tongi, Megan Danielle, and Colin Stough, the three finalists, got one final chance to wow the audience during the ABC special by doing solo and duet performances.
Millions of people were watching at home, and the stars did emerge. The screens were filled with performances by Keith Urban, Kylie Minogue, Ellie Goulding, Lionel Richie, TLC, REO Speedwagon, Pitbull & Lil Jon, and more.
Tongi and Danielle were the top two contenders that America selected. Tongi was the sole possible candidate.
The high school student from Hawaii who had a lovely voice and a terrible background recently won the hearts of Idol devotees. As he performed, Tongi's reputation grew.