In the excited words of lively host, Noluthando Meje, “it has been 10 long weeks of sweet home-brewed melodies, with 10 amazing acapella groups!”
But, finally, it was the public that spoke with one loud voice by voting the Durban-based isicathamiya group, The Legacy, as The Sing Off SA Season 1 overall winner, and the group that walked away with an incredible R250 000 in cash and a recording contract.
“In terms of the aim of the talent search, first and foremost, we wanted to show case South Africa’s finest a capella talent on our Sing Off stage,” says series producer, Bruce Townsend. “We selected ten groups from all over South Africa, each with their own unique vocal style. The level of competition was fierce from the get go, which really underlined the quality of the groups our talent search had unearthed. In the end, The Legacy, Legato and Solid booked themselves a spot in the final. Our three finalists did not disappoint and delivered performances of the highest standard. Although The Legacy walked away with top honours, there is no doubt that all three groups will go on to fulfill their ambition of cementing a career in the entertainment industry,” he concludes.
The solid judging panel for the talent show, comprising some of Mzansi’s finest music icons in HHP, Zakes Bantwini and Zolani Mahola, did a exceptional job at steering the acapella music competition to conclude at such a high standard.
“I am overwhelmed with the response we have received with The Sing Off – it has really showcased South African talent and especially the acapella genre – this genre has such wide appeal and needs to be supported!” says Zakes Bantwini.
HHP adds, “Sing Off SA first season was a complete success. It was exciting to see the level of creativity and broad skill shown by the various groups. I’m excited to see the second season and who the first ten contestants have inspired out there. The talent was incredible and world class. It took the art of acapella that we’re all so familiar with from being just niche to being well on its way to mainstream,”
Zolani Mahola captures her experience on the talent show as follows, “I am extremely proud and honoured to have been a part of the first season of The Sing Off SA. I found the production honest and fair and the talent extraordinary. I think any one of the final three groups could have taken first place and look forward to seeing all of the contestants taking their rightful place in the South African music scene. Well done to the Legacy for securing first place and I wish them a bright and long future in the music business.”
Television viewers still have the opportunity to enjoy the thrilling finale, with the repeat show airing on SABC1 Mzansi Fo Sho, on Tuesday 07 July 2015, at 21h00!
