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Since the live shows started, the top three on Nigerian Idol season 9 have put their best foot forward on stage, endearing themselves to millions of viewers who have, in turn, voted for them to remain in the competition.
In a new twist that saw judge Ric Hassani save Chioma from eviction, the competition has become more fierce as three contestants – Chima, Lammy and Chioma – have made their way to the finals, vying for the ultimate Nigerian Idol crown.
In anticipation of the finale to be held on Sunday, 14 July 2024, here are our best performances from the top 3 contestants.
Chima – Not The Girl
Chima has been impressive throughout the show. From being the first platinum ticket-winning contestant to getting a chance to become the ultimate Idol. Every week, he has brought his “A” game. However, his recent performance that saw the rendition of Darey Art Alade’s ‘Not The Girl’ was a showstopper.
The stripped-down performance that saw the contestant sitting on stage flexing his vocals in an altered version of the song was simply soulful, with levels of emotional depth that made Judge 9ice ask if Chima was heartbroken. From his stage mannerisms to his vocal control and smoothness – everything contributed to a gut-wrenching performance that earned him a standing ovation from Omawumi.
Read also: Drama, Music, and Romance: The Latest Episode of Nigerian Idol had it all
Lammy – African Queen
Just last week Lammy showed us that he understood the assignment. Finally, with a great song choice thanks to 9ice, Lammy performed 2Baba’s classic, ‘Africa Queen.’ His flow on the song arguably puts this performance up as the best translation of an Afrobeats song on the show this season.
His stage management was impeccable, coupled with his stable vocals and flow that rivalled 2Baba’s. It was an enjoyable performance that had everyone, including the judges, swaying to the classic Lammy brought to life on the Nigerian Idol stage.
Chioma – One Night Only
Jennifer Hudson’s ‘One Night Only’ is not for the faint of heart. Apart from the theatrics, there are other important factors to consider, especially because vocal control and stability are essential elements to pulling off a performance of such a great song. By the end of her performance, no one could dispute that Chioma delivered by every standard.
In an emotional delivery, after her eventual save by Ric Hassani, Chioma gave it her all as she used contrasting flows, beats, and registers to personalise Jennifer Hudson’s ‘One Night Only.’ Unlike previous performances, Chioma interacted with her audience, managed the stage, and simply sang her heart out on the stage with background vocals by music group 121 Selah.
She hit every note and shone like the star she was on stage during the performance, which earned her a standing ovation. It was her moment, and she gave it her all.
Nigerian Idol finale show airs this Sunday, 14 July 2024 at 7pm and voting lines close on Friday, 12 July 2024.
To see who takes the crown, tune in to Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Channel 151 and GOtv Channel 12) and AM Family (DStv Channel 154 and GOtv Channel 2) on Sunday at 7 pm.
