As Idols hopefuls for Season 9 of this exciting sweat and blood vocal-game of a show line up in long queues across the country to haul their lungs for judges, some of the Top 18 contestants from the previous instalment of this American-dubbed showpiece continue to milk dry the publicity they got off the show for all its worth.
Putting it mildly, Idols can be a step 1 for anyone who wants to pursue a career in the arts. While most disappear with the last credits of the final episode of each season, some hit the streets to suck the little fame and publicity they enjoyed from Idols and this is a perfect "proof in the pudding" case when it comes to a few of the contestants.
Dumi who was part of the Top 18 now stars in Rhythm City. The enormous role was tailor-made for him and he’s sure to ruffle some feathers in the show. From what I saw, he looks like he’s doing well as an actor. Good riddance to those soccer boots!
Ermelo born Siphesihle “Sihle” Ndaba aka “Randal’s girl” also scored big when she landed a role on Inkaba. Again, from what I saw the girl can only take off to the sky from there on. She belongs in front of the camera.
Obakeng Ramaboea, who was first to bite the dust of the Top 10 race continues to get good gigs. Just yesterday he was singing on Isidingo at Cherel’s wedding. Not sure if he’s back to banking up the Loliwe hitmaker Zahara, but he appeared on her DVD which tasted release in the latter part of 2012.
Rumour is Simphiwe Gwegwe of the "red-skinny-pants" fame also landed a role on 7de Laan. Way to go for a Port-Nolloth boy who braved seas and mountains to catch the auditions in Durban last year. Tell me if that’s not gangster-cool? Huh?
The last I heard of Tshidi was when she ended up in the nomination list for Feather Awards last year in some "Diva" category. With the amount of talent she has, it’s a surprise she’s not ruling the charts right now. Can someone call and give this girl a recording deal?
Others who just drizzle in and out of media reports include Shekinah Donnell, who apparently enjoys a lot of gigging in Durban, and Monde Msutywana, who usually features in most South African TV shows. We all know that Khaya unlike many former Idols winners is doing well, his single went Gold in its first month of release and he’s now nominated for Best Newcomer in the upcoming Metro FM awards.
Idols isn’t just a rumoured vote-rigging ground as people always suggest. The show can launch careers for budding artists. All the proof is above. Does anyone else know what other “Idols” are currently doing? Please fill us in!