Idols SA announces top eight

Be became the second contestant in the top 10 to be eliminated. The remaining contestants include ZanoThando, Brandon, Mr Music, Zama, Ntokozo, Bongi, Jooma and Ndoni. The top eight round was performed under the theme New Kids on the Block and the contestants paid homage to upcoming artists.

“It was another exceptional week of exceptional performances,” M-Net director of local entertainment channels Nomsa Philiso said. “I think the judges are right to say the viewers will not have it easy when it comes to voting because this year is brimming with talent. Still, the voters are the only ones who will decide who becomes the next SA Idol, I urge them to continue voting.”

Bongi, who was the first on stage, performed Zandi Khumalo’s ‘NgiyaKhuthanda’. Judges Randall Abrahams and Unathi Nkayi lauded her performance, with Somizi Mhlongo calling it a beautiful way to start the show.

Mr Music was next with DJ Maphorisa and Sjava’s ‘Ngempela’. Unathi said his performance was contagious: “Not the most perfect vocals, but a good performance.” Somizi urged him to start trying different performances without losing his core style and sound: “It was a good performance, but it’s time to change gear.” Randall said Mr Music’s performance indicates he would be around to perform one more song.

Zama’s rendition of Thabsie’s ‘Finally’ was met with praise with the judges commending her versatility. “This was beautiful,” Somizi said, adding: “We are enjoying you.” Randall commended her lower ranges while Unathi congratulated her for continuously pushing herself.

Brandon was next with Musa’s ‘Angsakwazi’. Randall said although he had enjoyed the performance, he had not made the best song choice. Unathi disagreed: “I think this is your best performance so far,” she said. Somizi said he had enjoyed his vocal performance but encouraged Brandon to connect with his audience.

Jooma performed Masego’s ‘Lady Lady’ and the judges heaped him with praise. “What a perfect song for you,” Unathi said. Somizi was equally impressed, calling him a magician, while Randall praised him for showing different dimensions without losing his core style.

ZanoThando performed ‘NaLingi’ by Manu World Star. Somizi said it was a sexy performance even though he felt ZanoThando’s voice needed some warming up. Unathi added that it was his best performance because he had given his all.

Ntokozo was next with H.E.R.’s ‘Focus’ and Randall said she had certainly stepped up, while Unathi said she had given him goosebumps.

Ndoni closed off the top eight performances with ‘Inyanga’ by CiCi. Unathi applauded her song choice, adding that she was a charming performer. Somizi was equally impressed, calling her rendition beautiful. Randall noted that she had improved over the weeks but needed to perform with the conviction that she deserved to be on that stage.

Idols SA can be viewed on DStv channel 161 on Sundays from 5.30pm CAT. For more information, visit the Idols SA official website.