Iam Tongi Releases Debut Full-Length Album ‘Good For My Soul’
American Idol Winner’s 13-Track Album Available Now
Tongi Celebrates with Return to American Idol and Grand Ole Opry Stages, Headlining Dates in California & Colorado
LOS ANGELES, CA, March 13, 2026 – After capturing hearts around the world with his historic win on American Idol in 2023, Hawaiian-born singer-songwriter Iam Tongi today releases his highly anticipated debut full-length album Good For My Soul via 19 Recordings, Inc.
The 13-track project marks a defining moment in Tongi’s artistic journey. Recorded in Nashville at Soultrain Sound Studios and produced by acclaimed singer-songwriter Johnny Reid, who co-wrote and produced alongside Tongi, Good For My Soul blends heartfelt storytelling with island warmth, soulful influences, and the acoustic-driven sound that has become synonymous with Tongi’s sound name.
Since his breakout viral moment on American Idol, Tongi has amassed over 100 million streams across platforms, building a global fanbase drawn to his authenticity and emotional delivery. Born in Kahuku, Hawaii, Tongi made history as the first Pacific Islander to win the competition, earning widespread praise for his deeply personal performances and unmistakable voice.
On Good For My Soul, Tongi embraces both growth and reflection. The album captures the evolution of a young artist navigating life after a whirlwind rise to fame while remaining deeply connected to his roots. Themes of family, love, and home run throughout the project, with several songs paying tribute to the culture and influences that shaped him growing up in Hawaii.
The album’s standout tracks include the title track “Good For My Soul,” “Jack,” “Eyes For You,” and the emotional ballad “Love In Paradise,” a collaboration with newcomer Ava Reid.
Tracks such as “Ukulele Lullaby,” and a cover of “Sweet Lady of Waiahole” reflect Tongi’s island upbringing and musical heritage. His rendition of “Sylvia’s Mother,” originally recorded by Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show, carries special significance as a favorite song of his late father.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the album’s title track, Tongi shares:
“Good For My Soul” came out of a really important time in my life. I wrote it in Memphis, which has such an incredible musical history, and being there really shaped the way I was thinking about music and life. I’ve been making some big changes personally, and this song reflects that moment where things start to fall into place. I’ll always miss the ocean, the beach, and the blue skies back home in Hawaii, but I’ve realized that home is really about the people you surround yourself with. When you have the right people around you, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.”
Another standout track, “Jack,” serves as a tribute to one of Tongi’s longtime musical inspirations, Jack Johnson.
“I’ve been a huge Jack Johnson fan for as long as I can remember. Some of my favorite memories with my fiancé are just sitting around listening to his music. It’s always felt like his songs were part of the soundtrack of my life. Over the years I’ve actually gotten to know him, and he’s been an incredible mentor. ‘Jack’ is really my way of saying thank you for the inspiration, the music, and the impact he’s had on me as an artist and as a person.”
Beyond writing and recording the album, 2025 was a busy year for Tongi. He collaborated with Disney to record a new rendition of “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” for the blockbuster live action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch. It was a full-circle moment for Tongi, whose music has long celebrated the culture and spirit of the islands. Most recently he worked with the Bing Crosby Estate to release a 75th anniversary edition of “Mele Kalikimaka”, recording his own take on the holiday classic, along with a duet version, which featured the late singer’s original vocals.
To celebrate the release of Good For My Soul, Tongi will return to the stage that first introduced him to audiences worldwide with a special appearance on American Idol on March 16, performing the album’s title track. He’ll then make his sophomore appearance at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville on April 1, followed by a series of shows in Colorado and California.
For the latest news including tour dates and to purchase tickets, visit iamtongiofficial.com and follow along @wtongi on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and X.
UPCOMING TOUR DATES
Apr 8 – Denver, CO – Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox
Apr 9 – Colorado Springs, CO – Phil Long Music Hall
Apr 17 – Ventura, CA – Ventura Music Hall
Apr 18 – Irvine, CA – Holo Holo Festival
Apr 23 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly up
Apr 24 – Grass Valley, CA – Center For the Arts
Apr 25 – San Jose, CA – Holo Holo Festival
May 22 & 23 – Orlando, FL – EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
ABOUT IAM TONGI
Iam Tongi is a singer-songwriter from Kahuku, Hawaii who rose to international prominence after winning Season 21 of American Idol. Known for his soulful voice, island-influenced sound, and heartfelt storytelling, Tongi has amassed more than 100 million streams worldwide. His music blends acoustic pop, island, and soul influences while reflecting themes of family, culture, and home that continue to shape his artistry.
