Whether it's electric show stopper performances or tear-jerking emotional ballads, there's one integral part that brings it all together; the band.
The nine member Idols band is not only the glue that holds the entire music process together, their awe-inspiring excellence has seen them become fan-favourites amongst the viewers and the judges. Week in and week out they send chills down everyone's spines with their flawless harmonies, immaculate runs and mind boggling scales that perfectly compliment the wealth of talent that is the Idols SA Season 14 contestants.
So with them being largely responsible for helping make every Sunday magical and every performance memorable, we think it's only right that we bring you a closer look at the ladies and gentleman who are so bad-ass at what they do!
Friends and fans of Idols SA, meet the band!
Margaret Motsage - Backing Vocals / Vernacular Vocal Coach
With over two and a half decades in the music industry, Margaret Motsage is one of the most seasoned singers on the Idols SA stage. The neo-jazz gospel artist has multiple albums to her name and also holds the prestigious accolade of being one of the found members of critically aclaimed Joyous Celebration. She has also featured
in both studio and concert performances with the likes of Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Gloria Bosman, Lucky Dube, Benjamin Dube, Sibongile Khumalo and Judith Sephuma to name a few.
What is your favourite song to perform?
The songs I like performing most are Dwala Lam’ by myself and Tamela Mann, Take Me To The King.
Who is your ultimate music icon?
I have so many musical icons I look up to and who inspire me, naming one would be most difficult.
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
Most memorable performance on Idols would be the recent one by Yanga's 'Not Yet Uhuru'. No one has moved me to tears in all of my years on Idols but her.
Follow Margaret on social media here
FB:Motsage Thozama Motsage
Instagram: @mmotsage
Twitter:@margaretmotsage
Tia ' Tima Reece' Herman - Vocal Director; Assistant Music Director and Backing Vocalist
While most had only barely learnt their ABC's Tia was already well on her way to being a vocal powerhouse. The singer, who goes by the professional stage name Tima Reece, started out at the tender age of 9 and steadily grew into a renowned creative director, song writer and artist. To date she boasts 3 SAMA nominations, penned Paxton's smash hit 'Angifuni' and released her latest album '9' at the end of 2016.
What is your favourite song to perform?
Listen – Beyoncé.
Who is your ultimate music icon?
Mariah Carey.
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
To write and arrange orchestration.
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
“Forever” by Damage with Niyaaz. It was Kurt and Tima’s wedding song.
Earl Baartman - Bassist
Cricket fanatic, coffee guzzler and ultimate bassist, 27 year old Earl Breezy is testament to what happens when fate knocks on hardwork's door. The Port Elizabeth native has been married to music since the age of 9 and while he was studying a Bachelor of Music at Nelson Mandela University he got a call that would change the trajectory of his life forever. The call was the become a part of internationally renowned artist Lira's band and it's an offer he grabbed with open arms! To date he is on his third season of Idols.
Where did your music journey begin?
Literally in my church at Ebenezer Centre in Port Elizabeth. Shout out to Brenton Goldman for introducing me to the bass. My life changed forever!
Who is your ultimate music icon?
Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones had a work ethic that is not even humanly possible! Even if they weren't musicians, it woudl be them! Hard work beats talent everyday!
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
Is drinking 13 cups of coffee in an hour a musical talent? haha I'd rock that! But definitely singing!
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
Probably the first show of season 12 in 2016. It was my first Idols SA show and I was nervous but Randall gave me a shout as the new bass player during one of his judge's review to the contestants. Definitely a moment I never expected but will remember forever.
Leagan 'StarChild' Breda - Drummer
Music runs in Leagan Breda's bones! Picking up his first set of sticks at the age of two, he has been mesmerizing audiences with his immaculate chops and flawless fills for over 30 years! The talented drummer has 'kicked' it with everyone from Kabelo, Loyiso Bala, Salaelo Salota, Jimmy Dludlu, Israel Houghton to Lira who he currently plays with now when he isn't on Idols SA.
What is your favourite song to perform?
Moonchild - "The list"
Who is your ultimate music icon?
Aaron Spears
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
Playing piano
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
It was in 2015 when Loyiso Gijana performed Sam Smith "Lay me down"
Llewellyn George
Sometimes you just know music is your calling and Llewellyn is undoubtedly one of those people. Trained in classic music and a Jazz graduate from the University of Cape Town, the pianist has lived and breathed music practically all his life. It's a passion and dedication that has seen him work with a highly impressive repetoire of artists including Jimmy Dludlu, Danny K, Loyiso Bala, Judith Sephuma, Tresor and more! Llewellyn has also been a part of the Idols SA family for the last seven seasons, including holding down the role of Music Director for the past two seasons alongside fellow Directors Kurt and Tia Herman.
What is your favorite song to perform?
The group song (Finesse) by Bruno Mars performed on this year’s Idols stage with the Top 16!
Who is your ultimate music icon?
Quincy Jones
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
Besides playing piano,I would love to play the Harp.
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
It has got to be during last season’s Orchestra Week. Having to orchestrate all the the music and have the musicians coupled with the orchestra play the music so beautifully made all the sleepless nights worth it.
Ezra Erasmus - Second Keys
With a distinct flair that effortlessly etches his subtle signature sound onto the Idols SA stage, Ezra Erasmus is the legendary thousand fingered man behind the 2nd keys on the show. He's musical journey was sparked by his late father who taught him how to play the guitar. Since then Ezra, or 'Strixly' as he was nicknamed as a youth, has graced the nations stages do what he does best, laying down those funky chords and keys!
Who is your ultimate music icon?
My ultimate musical icon is Bob Marley.
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
I can't sing to save my life so if there’s any other musical skill I’d love to have it would be the ability to sing! I’ve also tried learning the saxophone for about 5 years but with no luck.
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
The most memorable performance for me on Idols has to be when I arranged and performed 'Superbass' with Khaya Mthetwa during Theatre Week of Idols Season 8. Personally, it’s been my greatest moment on Idols.
Follow Ezra on social media here:
Facebook: Ezra Erasmus
Twitter & Instagram: @eramusiq
Raymond 'Ray Ray' Green - Guitars
It's not everyday one can say they know the musician behind some of their favourite jingles and movie soundtracks! Ray Green is not only one of the top go-to guys for laying down licks on TV show jingles and big screen productions, the guitarist also hold the high honor of having recorded and played alongside the likes of Danny K, Lebo Mathosa, TK, Elvis Blue and more. His connection to Idols SA also streches all the way back to the very beginning where he played guitar on the Season 1 winner, Heinz Winckler's single, 'Once In a Lifetime'.
Who is your ultimate music icon?
Dann Huff
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
If I could have one more skill it would be to play drums like Leagan!
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
My most memorable Idols SA performance was in 2012. The Top 4 Duo performance by Melissa Allison and Khaya Mthewa.
Follow Ray Ray on social media here:
Instagram @mr_ray_green
Aldert 'Al Dirty' Du Toit - Guitars
Staunchly refusing to subscribe to labels and the trappings of individual genres, Al Dirty is a firm lover of all forms of music! The former guitar tutor has been plying his trade for a decade and a half across theatres, recording studios and stages. He is also a multi-instrumentalist with a knack for piano accordion, keyboard, bass and banjo, with a touch of music production as well! Alongside Idols he can also be found jamming with his other fellow band members in the 15-piece troupe Bombshelter Beast or roaming the streets in his classic box-shape BMW.
Who is your ultimate music icon?
It's difficult to just pin point one but at the moment Thundercat and Micki Miller are my top picks.
If you could have one more musical skill what would it be?
To be able to sing, as in really sing (I can hold a note but eish, it's not my game)
What has been your most memorable Idols SA performance thus far?
I would have to say the finale of Idols SA Season 13 at Carnival City. The band was on point, the music was great and the tension in the room with thousands of people was really something to behold!
Follow Al Dirty on social media
Instagram: @al_dirty / @bombshelterbeast
Kurt Herman - Musical Director & Backing Vocalist
One of the longest running members of the Idols SA team, Kurt joined the production over a decade ago in 2007, however his entertainment roots reach far deeper and further back. Before being hurled into the limelight as a member of Coca Cola Pop Stars' band '101' Kurt was just a revered on theatre stages where he toured the United States and Europe in an award winning ensemble. The Idols music director is also the better half of Idols Vocal director, Tia Herman, talk about power couple goals!
What type of advice do you give the contestants and artists you work with?
We really just try to get out of the way of what the artist wants and what the song requires. Sometimes we need to be reminded that in order to achieve what the artist wants, we must be prepared to do what hasn’t been done. This most of the time means much more than hitting the record button. Preparation is important, but sometimes the conversations to get them prepared is what’s needed. Sometimes it’s a counselling session.
Each process is different, so allow yourself to be comfortable so that we can help you find the magic. I prefer this approach even when the deadlines are hardcore, because once its printed, its forever.
Can you share a few highlights from your career?
I've had some great moments on tour and some performances over the years including sharing the stage with Usher, Alicia Keys, P. Diddy, Atomic Kitten, John Legend, Craig David. I've also had a few hits on radio but am still surprised at the longevity of my biggest hit 'Lady Soul' – DJ Jazzy D.
Which upcoming projects can we look forward to hearing you on?
Apart from Paxton's 'This Is Me' ablum, we are really excited to release the upcoming Tima Reece project. It’s the first offering since her hits 'You Should Know' and 'My Body’s Crying'. We are launching on the 30th of November at the Joburg Theatre and the album '9' will be available on iTunes and other streaming platforms from the 2nd December.
Catch the Idols SA LIVE shows every Sunday from 17:00 on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161. Get exclusive updates as all the action unfolds by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram