Tonight’s live show at the SA State Theatre in Pretoria was themed, Hits from the Movies. Things started off on an uplifting note when the contestants opened with Kirk Franklin’s version of Earth Wind and Fire’s, 'September'. They were also backed by the Idols Band and the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra and it was the last time all nine would be on stage together.
Fitting in with the theme, the contestants were glamorous in black evening wear that made them look red carpet ready. A suave Botlhale was the first to breathe a sigh of relief when his name was called. He chose Lionel Ritchie’s, 'Say You, Say Me' from the film, 'White Nights'. The Judges’ response was lukewarm, with Randall lamenting his “lack of energy” and Somizi pointing out that “it wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great either”.
Tee made it onto the stage next, performing Michael Jackson’s, 'Man in the Mirror' from the movie, 'Joyful Noise'. The Judges’ consensus was that she had already conceded defeat. “If you want to win, you have to sing like a winner. You didn’t,” was Randall’s blunt assessment. The positive feedback came with Christo, who serenaded with 'I Just Called to Say I Love You' by Stevie Wonder from the movie, 'Lady In Red'. Somizi called it, "flawless". Unathi said he’d “coloured it so beautifully” and Randall was full of praise for both contestant and the orchestra.
Faith also received a clean scorecard after seducing with a unique rendition of Bob Marley’s, 'No Woman No Cry' from the dog friendly film, 'Marley'. Randall set the tone with his comment: “I was perplexed by the song [version] but you were pretty good in it.”
It was a more restrained Phindy who took to the stage to sing the 'Robin Hood' anthem, 'Everything I Do' by Brian Adams. While Randall found it “cloying and far too sweet”, Unathi called it Phindy’s best performance of the season and Somizi commended her for “not being afraid to be ugly to be beautiful”.
Paxton was doing a happy dance a moment later when her name was called. Singing the iconic, 'Over the Rainbow' by Judy Garland from The Wizard of Oz, she received a standing ovation from the audience and two of the judges. “You are incredible,” said Unathi, “The metamorphosis you take us through every week is amazing.”
Next up on the Idols stage was the indomitable Mthokozisi, who also received a standing ovation from Unathi and Somizi after pouring his heart out singing R. Kelly’s, 'I Believe I Can Fly' from 'Space Jam'. “Every time you come on stage, you are absolutely committed. I have a suspicion you’re going all the way,” said Randall. Unathi said he is giving every child in KZN the belief that they can be anything and Somizi declared: “You are the Caster Semenya of vocals!”
With only Lindo and Thapelo left on stage, the tension was almost unbearable. Lindo’s burst of relief came as Thapelo was announced as the one leaving. Singing Luther Vandross’ 'Evergreen' from 'A Star Is Born', Lindo had the Judges singing his praises. Unathi said he did it justice. Randall waxed lyrical applauding how his guttural voice surprisingly worked well despite it's stark contrast to the soft strings of the orchestra.
It was certainly a high note to end on. Now we wait to see how the public voted and who will proceed to the Top 7. Make sure you support your favourite here.
Idols SA airs on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) every Sunday at 17:00. VOTE or register to VOTE for your favourtie Idols contestant here and don't forget to stay connected and up to date by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
