DStv’s Mzansi Magic channel has finally announced the much-anticipated list of Idols SA top 12 contestants for Season 18 – and it promises to lead to an exciting finale.
“While some have an upper hand with experience, we think this year’s contestants are ready to gear up for the real battle as the Live shows begin this coming Sunday 28 August at the Heartfelt Arena,” the channel said in a statement on Monday (22 August).
Season 18 ‘Idols SA’ top 12
After stiff competition from a much wider pool of contestants, the following are the Season 18 Idols SA top 12 (in alphabetical order):
1. Ceejay
24-year-old Ceejay, from Stanger, is hoping it’s third time lucky after he missed out on a golden ticket in Season 16 and 17. He may describe himself as shy and lowkey, but he has impressive vocal prowess. Watch him on YouTube.
2. Hope
Pretoria-based Hope, 23, started singing at the tender age of five and hasn’t looked back one bit. She says joining the Midlands Youth Choir opened new musical avenues for her. She has also completed her musical theatre studies at the Tshwane University of Technology and promises fans “soul and more.”
3. Kabelo
24-year-old Kabelo is from Pietermaritzburg and took part in Season 16, but was eliminated in the group stages. He describes himself as an ambitious but reserved self-taught musician who is out to prove a point.
4. Lerato
Johannesburg-based Lerato, 27, is also trying her luck for a second time – a full decade after her first stint. She says she’s an ambivert who comes out of her shell when singing and wants to inspire South Africans to never give up on their dreams.
5. Mpilwenhle
23-year-old Mpilwenhle, from Johannesburg, admits that she’s nervous but thrilled to be in the top 12 of Season 18. “I am excited to get on the stage, pour my heart out and leave it on the stage,” she says.
6. Nandi
Johannesburg is represented again by 21-year-old Nandi, who confidently says she’s a fearless performer. A stage performer from a young age before transitioning to the Market Theatre, she promises fans “something different.”
7. Noxolo
Durban-based Noxolo, 25, is eager to start the live performances and hopes to connect with the audience. She promises to bring something “unique, rare and spiritual” to the stage.
8. Nozi
27-year-old Nozi, from Durban, didn’t make the first cut when she first entered the competition in 2016. She’s back for another try and hopes to transition from a background singer to a solo performer whose talent resonates with the audience.
9. Tesmin-Robyn
Johannesburg’s Tesmin-Robyn, 23, is not about to give up – this being her third attempt in the contest. She made the top 16 list previously and aims to use her “big vocals” to go all the way to the end this time.
10. Thapelo
29-year-old Thapelo, from Pretoria, says Idols South Africa is the biggest stage he has been on so far. His main passion is soul music, although he is open to trying out different genres. He hopes his humility and dedication to see him win.
11. Ty Loner
Johannesburg-based Ty Loner, 21, got the surprise of his life when Idols SA called him because he had no clue that his girlfriend had secretly submitted his video. Now that he has reached this stage, he promises viewers “a show.”
12. Zee
At just 18, Cape Town-based Zee is the youngest contestant in the top 12. She’s a veteran of singing, though, having started when she was in Grade 2. She says viewers can expect the best from her, “It’s literally my heart that will be on that stage. I hope people feel that.”
Parting shot
All the best to each contestant as they bring forth their unique talents to viewers across South Africa and beyond.
Idols SA Season 18 airs on DStv’s Mzansi Magic channel 161 at 17h30 every Sunday. If you wish to attend the live shows at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria, tickets are available at Computicket. Voting for your favourite contestants will also start on 28 August 2022.