Idols SA announces top 12

The contestants are Ceejay, Hope, Kabelo, Lerato, Mpilwenhle, Nandi, Noxolo, Nozi, Tesmin-Robyn, Ty, Zee and Thapelo. They will compete for the top 10 spot following pressure-filled and gruelling weeks of tough competition.

There was a surprise reveal that, instead of the usual top 16 at this stage, this year’s competition would cut the number down to 12, who would then perform in the live shows. It’s the viewers’ turn from 28 August, when the results will be determined by votes after judges Somizi Mhlongo, Thembi Seete and JR Bogopa having done their part.

Lerato, who is not new to Idols SA, said: “This year, I had the courage and bravery to enter again. I want to inspire people to know that you shouldn’t let your dreams die. Don’t give up on your dreams. Even if it takes forever, it can actually happen for you one day.”

Hope, a 23 year old from Pretoria, said joining the Midlands Youth Choir unlocked a new experience for her. “I wasn’t ready earlier than this. I know that the way I perform and translate music will leave a beautiful mark.”

Zee, who is this year’s youngest contestant, said she hopes to win but is relishing the opportunity to perform. “It’s literally my heart that will be on that stage. I hope people feel that,” she said.

Tesmin-Robyn said her goal was to build a solid foundation for her future and network with other artists through the competition, while Nozi said she planned to set the stage alight, and hoped viewers would resonate with her performances.

Tickets to be in the audience for the Idols SA live shows are available here. Idols SA can be viewed on DStv channel 161 on Sundays from 5.30pm CAT. For more information, visit the Idols SA official website.