THE much-awaited Season 8 of the music reality contest, Nigerian Idol, finally premiered on Sunday night. And in its usual fashion, the show started off on a thrilling note with some golden voices walking away with the Golden Tickets to advance to the Theatre Week, while the audience were also treated to some rib-cracking comic performances by some wannabe music acts
The season began on a very good note for those who auditioned on the night, as the judges – Obi Asika, entertainment guru and Storm Records chief; singer and self-proclaimed koko master cum bangalee, D’banj and Simi, singer and sound engineer – appeared to be in a good mood, as the first set of seven contestants received the priceless golden tickets to go into the Theatre Week.
Some produced splendid performances, while otters managed to scale through. The night kicked off with the twin performance by Paul and Prosper for their potentially life-changing moment. The duo made their stage entrance together with their guitar but performed separately. At the end, they were ‘greeted specially’ with two golden tickets by the judges.
Up next was Abraham, who also clinched the golden ticket. He left a lasting impression on the judges with a bit of biblical humour. He was overly excited to announce to the judges that he was going home to show the deservedly golden ticket to Isaac and Sarah.
Coming after him was Lilly, who managed to get over her excitement about meeting the judges. Though she started her performance on a low key, but later picked up and was able to get a yes from the three judges.
Visually impaired Ben Phillips waste no time to tell everyone who cares that that there is ability beyond his disability as he hit the stage, wowed the judges and the audience with his amazing voice.
Dubbed the biggest performance of the night, his artistry earned him a hug from Simi who stood up to present him with the ticket.
For Sunday, stage fright has no master. He said his dad was a choirmaster in the church, and with his influence, he started singing in the choir at the age of eight.
According to him, he worked all his life for this opportunity. Walking into the room and meeting the judges, his nervousness almost cost him the golden ticket. But thanks to a ‘yes’ from D’banj and Obi Asika, which has propelled him to continue pursuit of his dream as he advance into the Theatre Week.
The returnees and selfie seekers
It is said that if you don’t succeed, get yourself up and try again. One of the highlights of the premiere was the return of two contestants from season 7.
Interestingly, the returnees were consistent with their records. Cabrini lost out at the duet stage of the Theatre Week in season 7. This time, he seamlessly made it back into Theatre Week.
Then came Angel who was also part of season 7. And like the previous season, Angel provided another comic display.
Another major highlight of the night was Frank, who told the judges he came to the audition just to take a selfie with D’banj. With his choice of ‘I’ve Got You Babe’ by Lucky Dube, his performance was so horrible that the late South Africa reggae icon would have turned with anger in his grave.
After getting a well-deserved NO from the three judges, Frank requested a selfie with D’banj before leaving, which he was obliged.
Nigerian Idol season 8 is broadcast every Sunday on these Africa Magic channels: Showcase, Urban, and Family at 7 pm.
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