Season 18 of “Idols South Africa” is heating up as we near the Top 5.
This week, the top eight contestants paid tribute to the music their parents listened to as children.
Sadly, Tesmin-Robyn from Johannesburg was eliminated from “Idols South Africa.”
The 23-year-old had almost 7 million less votes than the other contenders. With her third effort on “Idols SA,” she informed IOL Entertainment that her musical adventure is not over.
She stated, “With the contacts I’ve built, I believe I’m prepared to put myself out there in a big way, therefore I’ll definitely be working on releasing my music.”
“Many details remain classified until I can validate them 100 percent”
In the meantime, the eight remaining finalists continue to vie for a berth in next week’s top seven.
Mzansi selected Nozi, CeeJay, Zee, Kabelo, Ty Loner, Thapelo, Mpilo, and Noxolo as their Top 8 artists.
The trio took a trip down memory lane with some of the world’s greatest singles by musicians such as The Beatles, Luther Vandross, and Mariah Carey, which their parents grew up listening to.
The nine remaining #IdolsSA contestants opened the event last night with a tribute medley to TKZee. Here is a brief excerpt. pic.twitter.com/i6cxzilqN9
26 September, 2022 — Idols South Africa (@IdolsSA)
This week’s collective tribute to kwaito icons TKZee was the only performance that made one laugh and cry simultaneously.
The top eight performed an upbeat medley of “Dlala Mapantsula,” “Phala Fala,” “Fiasco,” and “Shibobo” at the Heartfelt Arena.
It must be seen to be believed! The #IdolsSA highlights from last night are provided by @SpotifyAfrica with the hashtag #YouLikeItWeGot. https://t.co/hGVQdYC7qA pic.twitter.com/Zb9XDl8E4p
26 September, 2022 — Idols South Africa (@IdolsSA)
Her father appreciated “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack when he was in high school.
Somizi Mhlongo, who gave Nozi a standing ovation, stated, “There are no words in the dictionary to convey what you’ve just accomplished.”
Last week, Nozi made headlines as Jennifer Hudson mentioned her on her stellar performance of “Giving Myself.”
JR Bogopa stated, “It’s difficult to botch up a song like that if you have a great voice.”
You were the embodiment of a vocal powerhouse.”
Nozi told IOL Entertainment, “I am really fortunate to have advanced to the next round. Sincerely, I feel the Lord’s favor upon me and am sincerely grateful.”
CeeJay serenaded the judges with Mas’thokoze by Mafikizolo and received some constructive criticism.
Thembi Seete stated, “I wasn’t sure where the song was headed, but you recovered. There is nothing I can criticize.”
Bogopa begged to differ. “There was a lack of voice command. “I understand you were a bit hesitant to sing in front of the judges, but that wasn’t it.”
Next, Zee sang “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” by UB40. The judges fell in love with her after her performance.
Bogopa stated that he enjoyed her harsh and silky vocals. “We appreciate you listening to our judges last week.”
Mhlongo said, “You looked the part and sounded the part; you made all the necessary adjustments.
“Have faith, I’m falling in love with you.”
Seete concurred: “You sounded magnificent, you were delicate and gentle, and you interpreted the song like a queen.” This week you returned with a vengeance.”
Zee stated, “Being on the next round truly verifies how people view and respect what I do, so I honestly just feel honored and happy for the fan-love I’ve been receiving. From here on out, it’s all about pushing forward and always doing amazing.”
The judges’ response was muted when Kabelo performed “Here and Now” by Luther Vandross.
Mhlongo advised Kabelo to improve his performance. “You chose a challenging tune. This individual has placed you in a perilous position.”
Seete doubted she heard the song selections. She instructed him, “Pay as much attention to your verses as you do to your chorus.”
Ty Loner sang “Can You Stand The Rain” by New Edition.
Seete stated that it was another another impressive performance. “In the event that you do not win, you will be fine. Continue with your discipline and enthusiasm.”
Bogopa stated that there were other successful renditions of this song, but the Ty Loner rendition “is among my favorites.”
Ty Loner stated, “The fact that I’ve been in the competition for so long and still have to advance to the next round makes me feel great, since not only am I advancing in the tournament, but my progression also demonstrates how many people trust in me, which gratifies me.
“I intend to continue this journey here and beyond, with the love and support I currently enjoy, with the hope that it can flourish for the better.”
Thapelo delivered an emotionally packed rendition of “Let It Be” by The Beatles, bringing all three judges to tears and earning him a standing ovation.
Bogopa praised him for sharing his ability with the nation.
“This rendition might easily be issued by you as a gospel version. You possess an abundance of talent. You’re special man.”
Mhlongo stated that Thapelo’s performance was worth a million dollars and gave the performer his signature “Woo Shem!”
Thaphelo stated, “I’m really appreciative, and when my name was called I couldn’t believe it; I was ecstatic. I am ecstatic to be among the top eight, but this means I must put in additional effort to go to the next round, be disciplined, and continue to implement.”
Mpilo’s rendition of “Hero” by Mariah Carey greatly delighted the panel of judges.
Mhlongo deemed her performance to be flawless.
Seete remarked that it was beautiful to observe Mpilo’s development in the tournament.
She said, “You carried the song like a queen.”
Bogopa praised Mpilo for carrying the song on his own, without the assistance of supporting vocalists.
“If your followers disappoint you by not voting for you, I’ll sign you myself,” he stated.
Mpilo stated, “I am really ecstatic and humbled, as I never imagined reaching this point in the competition. I am really appreciative to all those who voted for me. I am truly blessed with individuals that love me and want for my success.”
Noxolo closed the event by performing Natalie Cole’s “Miss You Like Crazy.”
Seete stated that Noxolo was “such a delight to see.” “I’m sure your mom is incredibly proud. You are exerting effort.”
Bogopa stated, “You are flawless vocally. You are doing quite well. Just avoid excessive dramatization.”
The performers will compete in the next installment of show stopper night the following week. Prepare yourself for glitter and glitz, theatrical attire, and high-energy performances.
Sundays at 5pm, watch “Idols SA” on Mzansi Magic, channel 161 on DStv.