After a rigorous and competitive selection process, the MTN Y’ello Star opening gala held on Sunday, November 15, ushering the final 14 contestants to the world stage.
Here are five outstanding things that got us excited about the Gala
The opening performance – the final fourteen contestants opened the Gala to a thrilling performance of medleys and mashups, giving a glimpse of what is to come farther into the competition.
Blue was the colour of the night – Judge Omawumi and the host, Hilda Baci, both looked stunning in their blue ensembles. Hilda rocked a floor-length glittery gown and neutral makeup, while Omawumi opted for a knee-length monosleeve gown, matched with her customary afro. They both looked stunning.
Dashing looking men – the men were not left behind at the opening Gala. Host Tobi Bakre full of energy looked delectable in his sparkly suit to fit, while judge Banky W looked razor sharp in his gold striped blazer.
The contestants’ attires – it was a big night for the final fourteen contestants as they were officially introduced to audiences across Nigeria. Decked out in befitting attires, the contestants looked regal and ready for the journey ahead.
Spectacular performances – after their opening performance, the contestants proceeded with their individual performances of the night. For which they were scored by the judges.
Freeborn opened the floor with her performance of Whitney Houston’s Wanna Dance. She got a score of 6.7.
Melody was up next with a performance of Sorry by Justin Bieber, he got a score of 4.3 from the judges.
Next was Dotti with Burna Boy’s On The Low. Dotti’s high energy performance impressed the judges and he got a score of 8.3.
The twin pair, Oiza and Meyi were next with a performance of Rihanna’s Diamonds, they got a score of 6.3. The judges commented on their initial nervousness and advised them to be careful with their song selection.
Storm came through next with Drake’s Hotline Bling, which got him a score of 4.3 from the judges. Feedback was that they were not able to connect with him.
Dave Willz performed Beautiful People by Ed Sheeran, and got a 3 from the judges. He had stumbled on some of the lyrics of the songs and the judges commented that he had a flat performance.
Isaac performed Wizkid’s Low and got a score of 4 from the judges.
David Garland was next with a performance of Bruno Mars’ Uptown Funk, his performance earned him a 9 from the judges, the highest so far. Though a tough song choice, David Garland owned his performance and impressed the judges.
Rael was next up with a performance of Adele’s Rolling in the Deep. She got a score of 7 from the judges.
Caesar came up next with Timaya’s Balance, which earned him a score of 6.3.
Gideon performed Davido’s Fall, with a score also of 6.3.
Uzezi’s performance of Wizkid’s Fever left the judges lukewarm and earned her a score of 5.7.
Fayfay was next with Maroon 5’s Memories. She tied with David Garland for top performance of the night, with an average score of 9 points from the judges.
And finally, we had Jesse Drums, performing Burna Boy’s Dangote. He got a score of 6.7.
The competition is officially underway and according to the judges, the contestants have to be impressive every week, to remain in the top spot.
