Fashioning Modern Africanism

Only three remain in  Idols SA ’s iLast Number farewell season From the thousands that entered this season's  Idols SA , only three remain, and only two will stand head-to-head in the grand finale on Saturday 4 November. This week saw the top 3; Thabo, Princess and Faith, set the stage for an evening filled with anticipation and incredible performances.   The night was divided into three distinct rounds, each showcasing a different side of the contestants. In the first round, they partnered with the renowned DJs; Heavy K and Deep London, delivering explosive performances that had the audience on their feet. Round two had each contestant revisiting their most memorable song of the season, providing both nostalgia and a chance to demonstrate growth. The final round was deeply personal, as each contestant took on their idols' songs, paying homage to the artists who inspire them. Thabo's spectacular night The praise from fans and celebrities alike, including a notable tweet fro

Idols SA's top five showcased a divine twist this Saturday, sharing the stage with gospel giants like Dr Tumi, Xolly  Mncwango,  and Betusile. The evening began with spirit-lifting gospel duets and transitioned into a selection of hits from some of Africa's most promising talents.   Opening the night, Thabo teamed up with Dr Tumi to deliver  Wafika . His performance resonated so well that Somizi credited him with holding his own alongside the gospel legend. “Round one  went  to Thabo. When you sing next to a giant like Dr Tumi and still make your presence felt, you’re doing a great job.” However, his second song,  Peru  by Fireboy DML featuring Ed Sheeran, received mixed reviews from the judges.   After her breakthrough performance last week, Princess teamed up with Xolly  Mncwango  for  Ungukuphila . She then set the stage on fire with Burna Boy's  For My Hand  featuring Ed Sheeran. The judges loved her vocal strength but reminded her of the importance of a holistic perfor

It was a night of euphoric highs and incredible performances as the  Idols SA  top 8 paid tribute to one of the biggest-selling and most celebrated artists of all time. The season 19 finalists sang songs from the playbook of  American Idol  judge Lionel Richie, reminding everyone why they are in the hottest competition on TV by showing off their artistic range. The songs were chosen by each finalist’s family.   Performing in the top 8, in no particular order, were: Thando, Sena, Envic, Niikiey, Thabo, Princess, Nkosi, and Faith. Sadly, it was time to bid Lungelo goodbye.   Before the top 8 were unveiled, the top 9 kicked off the show with a spirited performance of the Ami Faku, DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small hit  Abalele . That was followed by Inkabi Zezwe – the duo of Big Zulu and Sjava – who brought their track  Sayona  to the  Mosaïek Teatro  stage.   First to perform in the top 8 was Thando, who took on  Love, Oh Love . The judges had praise and pointers, with JR Bogopa saying: “T

Last night Idols SA  season 19 contestants brought romance as they sang songs that make weddings fun, d espite the pressure being the most intense it’s been so far, this week’s  Idols SA  edition was a celebratory one, as the newly minted top 9 hit the stage in their wedding best. Following viewer votes, making it to the  Idols SA  season 19 top 9, in no particular order, were: Niikiey, Lungelo, Faith, Nkosi, Thando, Princess, Thabo, Envic, and Sena. Sadly, it was time for Lungile to say goodbye to  Idols SA . The theme saw the top 9 perform songs from the ultimate South African wedding playlist, bringing i-step to the florally decked-out Mosaïek Teatro stage.  Niikiey kicked off the show with Malaika’s  Mmatswale , to praise from the judges. Somizi Mhlongo had career words of advice: “Do you want to make a lot of money in music? Then this is your genre, mntwan’am. It was your concert.” Next to take the stage was Lungelo, who took on Etta James’  At Last . The judges loved her performa