Last week’s episode of Nigerian Idol Season 10 was nothing short of electrifying, as the Top 4 contestants delivered back-to-back show-stopping performances in a thrilling double-themed night celebrating ‘Naija Now’ and the timeless groove of ‘Motown Classics’.
Host IK Osakioduwa opened the night with his signature charm and teased what’s ahead as fans now have the power to choose next week’s songs by voting on the Nigerian Idol website. The all-star judging panel of Ric Hassani, Iyanya, Omawumi, and guest judge 9ice brought high energy, fierce style, and sharp critiques to guide the contestants closer to the grand prize.
The tension was palpable as IK revealed the Top 4. Purp, the last woman standing, set the tone with an elegant and powerful performance of Free Fall by Tems that had the judges raving about her seamless blend of soft control and confident rap.
She declared, “What a man can do, a woman can do better,” and proved it on stage.
Next up was crowd-favourite Mikki, whose rendition of Commas by Ayra Starr was packed with charisma and stellar voice control, leaving the judges and audience in awe. 9ice said it best, “You are a great performer, I love the energy.”
Lawrence followed with With You by Davido featuring Omah Lay, showcasing smooth vocals and understated emotion that got the entire crowd singing along and the judges on their feet.
In a dramatic showdown between Raymu and Brammy, the final Top 4 spot went to Raymu who delivered a tender, soulful version of Love Me Jeje by Tems, impressing the judges with his tone and control.
To usher in the Motown segment, the three male judges — Ric Hassani, Iyanya, and 9ice surprised the audience by appearing in full Motown costumes, dancing their way back to their seats. The energy was high, and the crowd loved it.
Purp dazzled with Something Got A Hold on Me by Etta James, channeling raw emotion and diva energy. With soaring falsetto and a deep connection to the lyrics, Mikki moved the crowd with a heartfelt rendition of I’ll Be There by Jackson 5.
Lawrence grooved through Superstition by Stevie Wonder, blending classic flair with his own unique touch that lit up the stage, while Raymu closed the set with End of the Road by Boyz II Men, pouring emotion into every lyric and earning a standing ovation.
To close the night, Brammy returned one last time with a celebratory rendition of All Night Long by Lionel Richie. He turned the studio into a joyous party as his family, contestants, and judges joined him on stage while the audience danced along.
Meanwhile, with the countdown clock to the finale already ticking and the music reality contest set to end on Sunday, July 13, the question on many lips is: Will a female win this year’s contest?