Drama, intrigue as SA voters choose ‘Idols’ Top 10

There was drama, intrigue, twists and turns, and a whopping nine million votes for Idols SA season 14’s first live voting show.

Sunday night saw host Proverb having the unenviable task of announcing this season’s Top 10, whittled down from 16 eager and hopeful contestants.

Basimane Boys Melato aka King B, 19, was the first to hear the magic words “You’re in the Top 10!” from Proverb. The HR student from Kagiso has been a firm favourite since his dazzling performance during the Top 16 boys show. The teenagers are certainly not here to play.

Yanga Sobetwa, 17, is flying the Generation Z flag high and proud. Following in the footsteps of last season’s teen victor, Paxton, Season 14’s youngest contestant has stepped out of Cape Town township Langa straight into the national spotlight. Could she be next star from Langa after the timeless Brenda Fassie?

Nosipho Silinda, 18, recently celebrated her birthday in the Idols house, and South Africa gifted the Grade 11 pupil from Ladysmith in KZN with a spot in the Top 10.

Ntokozo Makhathini, 18, must be drinking the same Witbank water as her neighbour, Idols season nine winner Musa. Whatever it is, she’s keeping her small town on the map with her inclusion in the Top 10.

Zamagambu Memela aka Xae, 19, made Idols history by becoming the first contestant to get a Golden Ticket autographed by all the judges.

Thando Mngomezulu, 19, finally overcame her crippling lack of confidence to give a dynamite performance.

Mthokozisi Nqcobo, 20, may have had only two pairs of shoes when he first auditioned, but his spot in the Top 10 proves walking in them to the audition was worth it.

Thato Makape, 23, is the epitome of courage and determination, as his inclusion in the Top 10 proves. A barber from Postmasburg, he travelled nearly 10,000km to audition. Lincoln Lewis, 22, from Ravensmead on the Cape Flats, brings fire every time he steps on stage. Niyaaz Arendse, 22, snatched the last spot in the Top 10.

Idols SA season 14 is on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161 on Sundays at 5pm.