14th March, 2014
Funsho Arogundade
It was an extreme case of self-disappointment as Oredu Agbenu Barbara broke down at the Benue regional auditions of music reality show, Nigerian Idol after performing in front of the judges.
The 20-year-old student felt disappointed at herself and her performance of Rihanna’s song, Man Down.
“I really don’t know what happened, I just let myself down,” said a teary Barbara.
She, however, got a consolatory word from Darey Art Alade, one of the judges: “Barbara, thank you. But you are definitely not ready for Nigerian Idol,” said Dare.
And for the first time in the four seasons of Nigerian Idol, that it will make a stop at Benue, for an opportunity to harvest unique voices, Patrick Ahemba, 23, thought it a good idea to meet the judging trio of Darey, Nneka Egbuna and Dede Mabiaku with his own version of Flavour’s hit track, Ada Ada.
Not only did he sing off key, he got the words all jumbled up and totally different from the original version.
“Did you practice this song very well? If you did there is absolutely nothing in this world you will be able to sing,” an obviously irritated Dede said.
But in Calabar, Cross River State, a 58 year old man, Bassey Lawrence, proved that age definitely has no hold on him.
The trader and wannabe singer came prepared for the Idol auditions, but his aim wasn’t to be the next Nigerian Idol but for an opportunity to gain exposure.
With his rendition of a personal composition and the aid of his guitar, the judges were pleased with outburst of joy and enthusiasm.
“Your rendition may not be what we are looking for in Nigerian Idol, but you have come out for the world to know you and I am sure that your goal has been accomplished,” said Darey.