Durban’s Nozi eyeing ‘Idols’ win, boosted by Jennifer Hudson
IT’S THE final countdown for the season 18 Idols SA contestants with the winner set to be announced next Sunday.
Durban’s Nozi Sibiya, now in the top three, wants to be the pride of the province by winning the title. If she takes the top spot, her win will be dedicated to the people of KZN for their unwavering love and support.
Two weeks ago, the 27-year-old from umlazi received praise from American singer and actress, Jennifer Hudson, for her rendition of the song Giving Myself. This has boosted the confidence of Sibiya, whose second time in the competition is proving to be a charm. She is confident many doors will open for her when the Idols curtains close.
Before entering the season 18 competition, Sibiya had been working as a make-up artist, braiding hair, and as a backing vocalist at music gigs.
Some of the gospel artists she has worked with include former Idols winner Khaya Mthwethwa, Dumi Mkokstad and Phindi P.
“I have always had a dream of being a solo artist but I experienced many disappointments,” she said.
“Sometimes it’s easier when you have money or connections to get your music career under way; I didn’t have that so I had to work my way up.”
Sibiya first entered the singing competition in 2016 and auditioned at The Playhouse Company, but she did not make it to the public voting stage.
“The rejection at the time made me feel like a loser, I felt if Idols did not believe I had talent and I was worthy, then it meant I didn’t have as much potential as I thought I had,” she said.
“I was sure I could sing but they didn’t see that and it affected my selfesteem. I lost hope but I was still so young and didn’t realise I hadn’t gained enough experience.”
Sibiya credits her comeback this year to her family, particularly her mother,who encouraged her to realise her dream of becoming a solo artist.
She said all the lessons and experience gained while backing professional artists had come in handy.
She told the Sunday Tribune that Jennifer Hudson’s compliment had changed her life. She was made aware of the star’s post of her performance by a supporter while rehearsing and struggling with lyrics.
“So many people have sung her songs over the years, some better than me, but she saw something special and shared my performance,” she said.
“I am just a woman from the township, to be recognised by an icon such as her … To this day I can’t believe it, but I give God the glory for all that is happening right now.”
Speaking about past winners whose careers had not taken off as expected and who have disappeared from the industry, Sibiya said: “That has been a concern for almost all the contestants, but I fear not because I believe all that has happened so far is for a reason.
“I believe when I leave a lot will happen, doors will open. I will push my music, everything will work out.”
The three contestants recorded their singles this week with Kalawa Jazmee Records, the official Idols record label. They will be performed for the first time during the show on Sunday.
Sibiya said she hoped her single would be well received.
“Getting this far has been such an honour and privilege and I will forever be grateful,” she said
“KZN this is ours, you have voted for me until now, let’s bring the title home. We are almost at the end, let’s push,” was her message to her fans.