Cape Town – When 16-year-old Loyiso Gijana performed Usher’s, Good Kisser at Sun City his spot in the Idols top 10 was secured.
Round after round the teenager received praise from the judges, critics and amassed a number of fans.
But his journey came to a shocking end this Sunday when he was voted out of the competition at the top 4 spectacular.
We had a chat with the charming teen about his Idols experience, his newfound fandom and going back to school.
Channel24:
Did you think you would make it this far?
Loyiso:
Not really, but there was always the possibility at the back of my mind. I’m feeling very honoured that I made it this far.
Channel24:
What has the whole experience been like?
Loyiso:
It was just amazing. I have learned a lot from the people I have lived with in the house. And just performing every week I have grown so much.
Channel24:
What have been some of the memorable moments in the show?
Loyiso:
There have been so many. But my favourite one was when I performed, Emile Sande’s, Next to Me, no one was expecting that reggae part!
Channel24:
You have been out of school for so long how are you feeling about going back?
Loysio:
Yes, very long! I don’t think I am going back this year but I have passed grade 10. Next year it’s grade 11 but for now I’ll just be focusing on music. Writing, recording and performing.
Channel24:
What surprised you most about the competition?
Loyiso:
They make it look so fun! But it’s hard work every day. When you get to that house the schedule is crazy, it’s so busy. We got to go to a lot of events. It was an amazing opportunity to meet celebrities and all that.
Channel24:
So you know you can’t walk around public without being recognised. How have you been handling your new found fame and fans?
Loyiso:
It’s always heart-warming to meet people who support you. But I’ll try to stay out of the streets, just stay indoors. (laughs)
Channel24:
Do you have any advice for someone your age who is thinking about entering the competition?
Loyiso:
If you want to enter Idols you have to be very smart. You have to think strategically. When you enter that competition, what’s the next step? You can’t just go into it without any expectation. People are going talk and say a lot of things about you good or bad, you have be prepared emotionally.