Episode 11 (6th live show) of the ongoing music reality competition, Nigerian Idol, was nothing short of spectacular. And if it had to be summed up in one word, it would be ‘Incredible’. This isn’t just because rapper, songwriter and record producer Jude Lemfani Abaga, popularly known by the stage name M.I Abaga (Mr. Incredible), graced the show.
From a surprise proposal to dazzling performances, this episode had it all. With the episode’s theme as ‘Doubling up the Music’, the contestants had to perform two songs each: an unplugged version of a Nigerian hit and an R&B track.
The Sunday night live show began with a twist following Maio’s eviction after over 40 million votes were recorded. This week, the judges refrained from their usual commentary and had to wait until each contestant had performed their two songs before giving their feedback.
It was a tough farewell indeed, with 9ice expressing his desire to collaborate with him on an album after the show. Omawumi, encouraging him, said: “The sky is your starting point. You have all the tools needed to succeed down this path.”
Ric Hassani and the guest judge M.I Abaga also shared their positive thoughts about Maio’s journey.
In what will be considered as sending shivers to the Top 4 contestants and Idol hopefuls, the show host, IK Osakioduwa, announced that there will be a double elimination next week, thus, raising the stakes even higher.
Chima started the night performance with Essence by Wizkid and Tems. Released in 2020, the song became the first Nigerian song in history to hit the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The effect of last week’s training with the world record-breaking choreographer Dr Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau, well known as Kaffy, was evident as Chima swayed and grooved, delivering another fantastic performance.
His second performance of Through the Fire by Chaka Khan, a classic from 1984 that has been covered by numerous artistes was a massive hit that highlighted Chaka Khan’s incredible vocal range and Chima did justice to the song in a like manner.
In her remark, Omawumi said the Idol hopeful is his only competition, constantly surpassing himself. Ric continued his friendly ‘hate’, expressing his frustration at how his performance is always flawless, while 9ice was full of admiration.
Lammy took the stage next with his performance of Style Plus’ Olufunmi, a Nigerian R&B classic released in 2003 that quickly became a fan favourite for its heartfelt lyrics and smooth harmonies. The show host IK, joked about Lammy’s age as he asked if he was even born when the song came out.
His second song for the night, Ordinary People by John Legend, a single from the singer’s 2013 album Love in the Future, known for its raw emotion and beautiful arrangement, was with a few flaws noted by the judges. Lammy admitted that he got caught up in his feelings during his first performance. Overall, the Idol in the making was appreciated for his heartfelt connection to the music.
Recall that during the previous live show, Lammy kick-started the night party performing Black Eyed Peas’ I’ve Got A Feeling, a high-energy dance track released in 2009 from their fifth studio album, The E.N.D. Although his vocals were not perfect, the energy he brought made up for it.
Her performance of Fave’s Baby Riddim, a 2021 hit that showcases the rising star’s unique blend of Afrobeats and R&B earned her applause from the studio audience.
Her second performance was Broken-Hearted Girl by Beyoncé, a powerful ballad from the 2008 album I Am… Sasha Fierce, which explores themes of heartbreak and resilience, was also applauded.
Omawumi applauded her determination and bold choice; Ric Hassani starting with his usual phrase, “Mira Mira on the wall,” commended her stunning look and performance. 9ice also appreciated her, saying “your talent is as clear as a miracle.”
Rising and shaking off the struggle on stage from last episode, Chioma delivered a show-stopping performance with Hard to Find by Chike, a 2021 song featuring Flavour that became an instant favourite for its catchy tune and romantic lyrics. Her second song performance, Man Down by Rihanna, from the 2010 album Loud, tells a dramatic story of regret and conflict with its reggae-inspired beat.
The judges unanimously agreed that she had the best performance of the evening, showering her with praise. Commending her, Ric humorously suggested that whatever she ate before coming on stage, should be eaten again next week, “because you nailed it!” he said.
Unlike her previous performances, Chioma, last week struggled to enjoy the stage as she performed Beyonce’s Who Run The World, a track released in 2011 as the lead single from the multiple Grammy awards winner’s fourth studio album, 4.
It need be noted that Maio had during the previous episode, capped the night live show with his performance of Davido’s viral single, Unavailable, a track off the just married Afrobeats star’s 2023 fourth studio album, titled, Timeless.