Idols SA contestant King B on his surprising exit: ‘I did expect it to happen at some point’

Cape Town - From the moment he auditioned in Joburg, King B has been a firm favourite to win SA Idols 2018.

His powerful voice, sassy attitude and vosho skills had everyone falling more and more in love with him and voting to keep him in the running for the coveted price.

However, Basimane “King B” Melato’s Idols journey came to a surprising end in the most recent episode.

We caught up with the singer, from Kagiso in Krugersdorp, to talk about his exit, future plans and his advice for the contestants left in the competition. 

How does it feel to be voted out at this stage?

“I honestly don’t feel sad. The dream had to start and this part of the journey had to happen in order for me to be able to go out there. Now the doors are open and I can go out there and do my thing.

“At some point I did expect it to happen. I had to prepare myself form the moment I got into the competition. So, I’ve always been prepared.”

When did you realise it could be you who had to leave?

“When we were in the top 10. That was the first time I was in the bottom two and it hit me that someone goes home. It really wasn’t in my mind until then, I just kept on thinking that I go on stage to perform and next week I sing again.

“But that time it really hit me. So I had to prepare myself.”

What words of advice do you have for the remaining Idols contestants?

“As much as I wanted to win, I wish them well. They’re my friend and I love them and now that I’m out I can actually say this: I wish you luck, go out there and fight for it.”

What are the future plans for King B?

“I have a plan on paper but I don’t have a structure for it yet. But once I figure that out, I’m going to just go for it.

“Idols gave me a big platform to showcase my talent and was the foundation for my career. I’m really proud of myself. When people watch the show they think its easy but it’s not. It was and still is a tough and crazy competition, but I’m really proud of myself.”

The remaining Idols – Thato, Thando and Yanga – have flown off to Dubai. Next week Mzansi will find out who’ll face off with who in the finale.

Tune in to Idols on Sundays at 17:00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161)