The much-awaited season 8 of the Nigerian Idol finally premiered on Sunday night. In its usual fashion, the show started off on a thrilling note. Some golden voices received golden tickets to Theatre Week, while the audience was also treated to some rib-cracking comic performances.
In case you missed out on the fun, here are some highlights from the Nigerian Idol season 8 premiere:
Flying starts for contestants: The season started on a very good note for those who auditioned on the night. The judges appeared to be in a good mood, as the first set of seven received golden tickets into Theatre Week. Some produced splendid performances, while otters managed to scale through. It all started with the twin performance by Paul and Prosper for their potentially life-changing moment. They made their stage entrance together with their Guitar but performed separately. They were greeted ‘specially’ with two golden tickets by the judges. Catch a glimpse of their performance here
Jovial contestants: Abraham came after the twins and deservedly got a golden ticket. He also left a lasting impression on the judges with a bit of biblical humour. According to him, he was “overly excited to take home a ticket to Isaac and Sarah.” The next contestant, Lilly, managed to get over her excitement about meeting the judges. She started her performance on a low key, but later picked up and was able to get a yes from the three judges.
Beyond Disability: This, surely, was the biggest performance of the night. Visually impaired Ben Phillips hit the stage and wowed the judges with his amazing voice. His performance got him a hug from Simi who stood up to present him with the ticket.
Stage fright has no master: According to Sunday, his dad was a choirmaster in the church, and with his influence, he started singing in the choir at the age of eight. He said he worked all his life for this opportunity. Sunday walked into the room and met the judges, then nervousness almost made him miss the golden ticket. But thanks to a yes from D’banj and Obi Asika, his dream continues in the Theatre Week.
The returnees: If you don’t succeed, get yourself up and try again. One of the highlights of the premiere was the return of two contestants from season 7. Interestingly, the returnees were consistent with their records. Cabrini lost out at the duet stage of the Thretre Week in season seven. This time, he seamlessly made it back into Theatre Week. Then came Angel who was also part of season 7. And like the previous season, Angel provided another comic display. Watch here
The one who came for a selfie: Another major highlight of the night was Frank, who frankly speaking, came to the audition just to take a selfie with D’banj. Frank chose to sing ‘I’ve Got You Babe’ by Lucky Dube. His rendition was so horrible that Lucky Dube would have turned with anger in his grave. After getting a well-deserved NO from the three judges, Frank requested a selfie with D’banj before leaving. He got his wish.
Nigerian Idol season 8 airs every Sunday on Africa Magic Showcase, Africa Magic Urban, and Africa Magic Family at 7 pm. Enjoy every moment of Nigerian Idol and other premium content by staying connected to your DStv/GOtv. Download the MyDStv/MyGOtv app to reconnect, stay connected, and upgrade your subscription, or dial *288# for self-service options, fix error codes, and subscribe.
