Introduction:
Iam Tongi Returns With “Sugar,” a Heartfelt Blend of Hawaii Soul and Country Pop
Honolulu, HI – September 21, 2025 — American Idol Season 21 winner Iam Tongi is back with a new single that perfectly captures his Hawaiian roots and signature warmth. Released on September 19, “Sugar” marks a vibrant new chapter in Tongi’s post-Idol journey, blending breezy ukulele strums with modern pop-country influences.
The 20-year-old singer co-wrote the track in Nashville alongside Kacey Musgraves and Shane McAnally, crafting what he calls “a love letter” to his fiancée Male Montalbo. “She’s my everything — my sugar in the coffee, my light in the dark,” Tongi told Rolling Stone.
With its sun-soaked melodies and tender lyrics — “You’re my sugar, sweet like the cane in the fields” — the single radiates both island nostalgia and universal appeal. Within 48 hours, “Sugar” racked up over 2 million Spotify streams, with fans praising its “tropical hug” energy and “wedding playlist” vibe.
The accompanying music video, filmed on Oahu’s North Shore, showcases breathtaking Hawaiian landscapes alongside intimate moments between Tongi and Montalbo. The video quickly surpassed 5 million YouTube views in three days.
Critics are calling “Sugar” Tongi’s strongest work yet. Pitchfork praised it as “a sun-drenched gem balancing nostalgia with fresh energy,” while CMT highlighted its cross-generational charm.
The track also marks a meaningful cultural milestone. Tongi, the first Pacific Islander to win American Idol, incorporates the Hawaiian language into the bridge — earning praise from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs for “bringing our language to the world stage.”
Currently, Tongi is preparing for his Sweetheart Tour, kicking off October 10 in Honolulu before traveling to 20 U.S. cities, including Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. His debut album, High Tide Heart, is set for release in February 2026 via Republic Records.
“I just want my music to make people smile,” Tongi said. “If it feels like a warm hug, then I’ve done my job.”