With four contestants from the province in the Idols Top 16, it is without a doubt that Mpumalanga is a goldmine of talent.
eMalahleni’s Zama Khumalo, Waterval Boven’s Succedor Zitha, Secunda’s Zahn- Reece and Barberton’s Brandon Dhludhlu have sung their hearts out on the SA Idols 16 stage to garner votes in order to remain at the top. Speaking to Zama(19), she said she’s in to win and is inspired by her family’s background.
“My parents brought us up well, but I would like to give them a better life and be able to provide things they cannot do for themselves.”
The former Witbank High learner heard about some members of her church who were going to audition and decided to tag along.
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“I passed matric last year, but my results were not so good, hence I decided to try out on SA Idols because I love singing and it’s something I’ve always been doing. So far, it’s been great and I’ve learnt a lot about music. The experience has been really amazing and people can expect a moreconfident Zama on stage,” she said.
Brandon, who grew up in Barberton and Badplaas, later moving to Witbank, never thought he would be a singer.
“Growing up, I wanted to be a pilot, but then when I moved to Witbank in 2014, I was introduced to music and met several producers. It was then that I decided to try and do music because I was told I could sing.” He revealed that it was not his first time trying his luck on the show.
“At some point, I had doubts coming back because I thought I was not meant to make it to the top, but here I am in the top 16 and I am excited,” Brandon said.
It wasn’t a smooth road for some, including Brandon who forgot his lyrics during the solo auditions. He admitted that he thought it was all over.
“I wanted to break down and cry, but then I was given another opportunity and redeemed myself. When I was told that I’m in the Top 16, I couldn’t believe it because of the solo audition. I really didn’t think I would make the cut.”
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It has always been Zahn-Reece’s wish to be on SA Idols, but always found an excuse not to go. This year he decided it was now or never
“It’s been amazing and with my experience in theatre, I can I say I’m coping. However, I must point that with as much as you think you’re prepared, with SA Idols it’s on another scale. It’s one of the biggest platforms for artists like myself and other upcoming ones. I love performing and I’ll surely give fans the best of me!”
With Succedor, it’s a different story altogether because he is not from a musical background. He’s also known for his unique fashion sense which he said is influenced by vintage clothing. He’s always had a dream to become one of the best entertainers and make it big in the industry. After matriculating from Belfast Academy, he could not pursue Music and Performing arts studies due to financial problems.
His biggest highlight thus far is the group performance where he performed Emcimbini by Kabza de Small and his solo where he sang Lotto by Samthing Soweto. He’s currently unemployed and hoping opportunities will arise.
“My fans can definitely expect entertainment from me, me pouring out my heart on stage and healing people with my voice,” he said excitedly. Tovote for them simply log in to www.mzansimagic.dstv. com. You can also SMS by sending your favourite contestant’s number to 37400. SMS votingis limited to 100 per user.
