Idols SA Season 14 auditions ended in Joburg with a day of “firsts” that will surely make it to the South African music industry’s history books.
There was gospel giant and music industry powerhouse, Dr Rebecca Malope, who joined judges Randall, Unathi and Somizi at the table as a guest judge. Then there was Randall not only laughing *gasp* but also joining in the silly musical fun at the judges’ table. And who will ever forget witnessing the first-ever “Slay Queen Prayer” original gospel song! Only on Idols South Africa, where anything is possible!
Dr Reebs, as she’s now fondly called, took her job on the judging panel very seriously indeed. “I’m so excited to be part of this show. I once entered a singing competition, so I know exactly what these contestants are going through. I’m looking for someone with talent. I need to see something different; that voice that will wake me up in the middle of the night to say ‘that’s the one’! That’s who I’m looking for,” said the beloved multi award-winning star.
What Dr Reebs – and probably the whole South Africa – did not expect to hear was a “Slay Queen Prayer” original composition, where a contestant took SA gospel to another level with her please to God to bless her with a Mercedes Benz, a night on the town and (probably) a new Brazilian weave. It was a sight to behold and a song to never forget.
Jaws were on the floor for a different reason when a contestant who had worked with the gospel star before came into the audition room. “I know you! You’re my child! You will not disappoint me!” she shouted excitedly. Indeed, the contestant blew everyone away with her vocal abilities and received a gold-certified four nods from the judges.
Someone else who impressed was someone whose band opened for Season 13 winner Paxton when she performed in her town, proving that the Idols SA gold dust just keeps sprinkling blessings wherever it goes.
The last Telkom Pop Up Audition took place in Polokwane, leaving a few residents jumping in the air with excitement as they clutched their Golden Tickets.
In the end, 87 Golden Tickets were given away during the nationwide audition tour. Now the voices go to Theatre Week where the pretenders will be separated from the real talent.
It’s game on!
Idols SA season 14 is on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161 on Sundays at 17h30. For more information visit our website: www.idolssa.tv
You can also join the Idols SA conversation via social media on… Facebook: Idols South Africa (www.facebook.com/IdolsSA) , Twitter: @IdolsSA #IdolsSA Instagram: @IdolsSA
