Top 9 Nigerian Idol Contestants Sunday Performance (Video) – Gerald Eliminated

Last night’s Live programme began as if we were seeing a theatrical performance, courtesy to a captivating prelude by 121 Selah, whose relaxing yet interesting sounds welcomed the Top 10 with a collective performance of Cynthia Erivo’s “Stand Up.”

Soon after that amazing intro, it was time for the business of the day. First to get a slot in the Top 9 was Jordan who sang ‘You Say’ by Lauren Daigle. Before his performance, he gave a heartwarming message to the people of Kaduna, following the tragedy that befell the city last week. This move touched many hearts and #NigerianIdolFam from across the country were left in tears.  His performance, like all the others of the night, was accompanied by 121 Selah who were stellar in their delivery.

The second Contestant to snag a spot in the Top 9 was Progress whose last performance struck a chord with a lot of Afrobeats music fans. This Sunday however, he performed ‘Uncle Suru’ by Jon Ogah and we can definitely tell you it was a banger. In critiquing the performance, Judge Simi remarked that she knew Progress was going to do well, as the song was in his comfort zone.

Next up was the “Baby Dragon” Itohan who was announced the third to get a spot in the Top 9. Her performance of Mary Mary’s ‘Can’t Give Up Now’ was definitely an awesome moment that obviously left our Judges and our live studio audience excited.

Next to be saved was Abigail who gave a powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s Higher Love.

At this point, it was clear that the competition was heated and everyone so far had brought their A-game. The next Contestant to be called up, also knocked it out of the park with his performance. Zadok recieved a standing ovation from the Judges after his performance of Timi Dakolo’s soulful ballad ‘Wish Me Well’. His performance was also regarded as a fave by Simi and D’banj who confessed to this at the end of the show when they were asked by Host IK.

Zadok’s vocally charged performance preceded an emotional performance from David Operah who turned the stage on its head during the last Live Show. This time, he brought a mellow vibe to the Luther Vandross hit ‘Dance With My Father’. D’banj confessed the performance made him emotional, while Simi said she enjoyed the smoothness of the performance.

Next to snag a spot in the Top 9 was Debby whose performance of ‘Happy’ by Pharrell Williams left many feeling happy.

Faith, who got a standing ovation last week, brought back her signature soul sound while performing ‘Next To Me’ by Emile Sande. While there was no standing ovation this week, Simi and many others on social media considered it an enjoyable performance.

Finally, there were two Contestants left in the lounge. Hearts were beating and silent prayers were definitely going up as Banty and Gerald went head to head for the final spot. Who would it be?

Fortunately for Banty, her name was called as the final Contestant to round out the Top 9. This meant Gerald did not get the number of Votes needed for him to stay on the show. After that heart-wrenching moment, Banty went on to perform ‘Lean On Mr’ by Bill Withers and got some accolades from the Judges for a good performance.

The Nigerian Idol live show continues next week, Make sure you vote for your favourite contestants as the power to determine who stays and who leaves is solely in your hands.