Idols South Africa: Top 16 Revealed
Finally, we've reached that stage of the show where the actual competition begins, and no one is happier about that than I am.
The preceding episodes have been largely disappointing, from those dreadful auditions to the drama of theatre week. I'm over it.
Now the decisions have been turned over to the South African public.
Be critical, but also be nice to the following 16:
1. Tebogo Louw - and it's third time lucky for the Capetonian. Thoroughly deserved, Tebogo has a very good shot this season at making it far in the competition. Lemme not jinx the poor dude.
2. Nosihe Zulu - this girl ain't a chicken. Likable, talented, pretty - she oozes potential.
3. Terra Cox - his mother will be proud. Let's hope viewers warm to him because he deserves it. He has solid, gritty vocals like few others in the competition.
4. Noma Khumalo - no surprise, Noma is a potential frontrunner. That voice is gold.
5. Thamsanqa Mathonsi - good.
6. Sanele Mkhize - let's see where this goes.
7. Valentine Mathe - that fricken Somizi nearly gave me a heart attack too. She's a star! One of my personal favourites.
8. Siyakha Tshayela - another star. Her performance of Bey's "Irreplaceable" gave me superstar vibes. I hope she graces us with her presence for weeks to come.
9. Amanda Kunene - and another potential star. With likability, poise, and a commanding voice, Amanda is a force to be reckoned with.
10. Keegan Martin - it's happy tears.
11. Lucia Jakeni - no brainer. She's a serious singer.
12. Lusanda Beja - hasn't left much of an impression as yet.
13. Luke - no surprise here. She has the package.
14. Bevin Samuels - pop star. No doubt.
15. Sgherdeed Ross - beats out Marce Underwood for the final female spot in the top 16. It was a no brainer, really. Sgherdeed's final solo was very strong, and she seems like she's willing to fight for everything.
16. Thami Shobede - beats Karabo Sibiya for the final spot in the top 16. No surprise: Thami had a fantastic final audition whereas Karabo faltered with a terrible cover of "Get Lucky".
So, the top 16 is largely devoid of any surprises.
