‘American Idol’ Iam Tongi sings heartfelt song for Maui fire victims
WATCH: Iam Tongi sings a cover of “Starting All Over Again” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole.
American Idol winner Iam Tongi dedicated a song to Maui residents who are suffering from the aftermath of the devastating Maui, Hawaii fire that leveled the historic town of Lahaina.
“Dedicating to all caught in the disaster in Maui. You are always in our hearts and our prayers. Much love as we work together through this. Onelove 🤙🏾,” says Tongi who sang a cover of “Starting All Over Again” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole.
Read also: Maui fire death toll reaches 100, and anger grows
In his most recent video, Tongi, a native of Kahuku near Honolulu but who now lives in Washington state, said the fire “hits harder than I can express,” that he has tried to collect his thoughts and determine the best way he can offer some help from afar.
“I have thought and rethought about ways I could help the people of Maui because I feel incapable seeing people donating so much money that I don’t have.”
He dedicated the song to “everyone who lost their homes and family members” as a way to show his “aloha” and his deepest condolences to Maui.
Want stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Stay informed. Stay ahead. Subscribe to InqMORNING