‘American Idol’ Winner Iam Tongi Releases New Single ‘Why Kiki?’
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American Idol Season 21 winner Iam Tongi has released a new single titled “Why Kiki?” The track comes with a music video filmed in Tongi’s home state of Hawaii.
Iam Tongi Releases New Single ‘Why Kiki?’
“Thanks to everyone who made this song and music video possible!” Tongi wrote on Instagram when announcing the song’s release on Friday. “Filming this at home with my family and friends made this the best experience.”
“Why Kiki?” is a play on words with Waikiki, a neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii, with a famous beach. In the song’s chorus, Tongi sings, “Why, Kiki? / Why you wanna do me like that, Kiki? / Why you gotta love me so bad, Kiki? / Why you got me down on my knees? / Why, Kiki?”
The song’s feel-good music video features scenic shots of Hawaii, as Tongi sings and strums the guitar. Those parts of the video are intercut with moments of a young couple looking happy together.
Tongi spoke about his roots in Hawaii during his time on American Idol, sharing that he was originally from Kahuku, on Oahu. His family relocated to Washington several years ago. Tongi returned to his home state for the Hawaii round of Season 21.
SEE ALSO: ‘AMERICAN IDOL’ WINNER IAM TONGI ANNOUNCES NEW TOUR DATES
What Has Tongi Been Up to Since the Show?
Tongi finished Season 21 of American Idol in first place. As part of his time on the show, the singer released a heartfelt single called “I’ll Be Seeing You,” which was written by fellow Idol alum Francisco Martin.
Since winning the show earlier this year, Tongi has kept busy with live performances. He also recently released a studio version of the song “Monsters” with James Blunt. Tongi performed the song in his audition as a tribute to his late father, and he joined Blunt for a duet during the Season 21 finale.
Recently, the 19-year-old announced a new set of upcoming tour dates on the East Coast, beginning October 25 at Gramercy Theatre in New York City. He’ll also be performing in Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., and more.
