Idols SA announces top 6

Bongi was eliminated and the remaining contestants are ZanoThando, Brandon, Mr Music, Ntokozo, Zama and Ndoni. All contestants performed two songs under the theme Old School vs New School.

“The show is getting more exciting by the week and like all the other fans, I am enjoying watching the contestants evolve as talented performers,” M-Net director of local entertainment channels Nomsa Philiso said. “It is clear that they are stars in the making.”

Ntokozo was the first on stage with a rendition of Diana Ross’ ‘Upside Down’ and Toni Braxton’s ‘Long As I Live’. Unathi Nkayi described Ntokozo as a dynamic singer, while Somizi Mhlongo said she had nailed her second performance. “You were amazing, you deserve to be in the next round.”

Mr Music took to the stage with the Lucky Dube classic ‘Remember Me’ and later sang Aubrey Qwana’s ‘Ngaqonywa’. Unathi called him a dynamic singer, while Somizi said he had charm and authenticity. Randall came out with a few words of advice, encouraging him to own the stage so he could reach out to his audiences.

ZanoThando performed songs by Caiphus Semenya and Malaika, both titled ‘Mmatswale’. Somizi said the performance was good enough to win him votes, while Randall said he had enjoyed both performances. “I love the man you have become on the show – you deserve to be here,” Unathi said.

Ndoni was up next with Hugh Masekela’s ‘Khawuleza’ and Ami Faku’s ‘Ungowami’. Randall commended both her appearance and style of singing, while Unathi said: “Phenomenal performances tonight.” Somizi agreed. “Both performances were amazing.”

Brandon performed Tyrese’s ‘Sweet Lady’ and Simmy’s ‘Ubala’. Unathi said he had done the first performance justice. “It was beautiful,” she said. Somizi agreed that the first performance was brilliant, but Randall encouraged him to focus on preparation. “Every performer in the top six could be in the final,” he said, adding that preparation would make the difference.

Zama closed off the show with Brenda Fassie’s ‘Wedding Day’ and Billie Eilish’s ‘Everything I Wanted’. Somizi said it was exactly what he had expected, while Unathi said she deserved to be in final.

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