When Idols winner Khaya Mthethwa arrived at the Umlazi Mega City Mall for an autograph session on Saturday he was met with screams from hundreds of enthusiastic fans of all ages who came to express their support for their “home boy”.
The crowd could barely contain their excitement as Mthethwa sang his rendition of Super Bass by Nicki Minaj, the song that made him a fan favourite, and Move, his debut single.
Security staff battled to hold back fans who surged forward, threatening to topple over the barricade.
They were clearly determined to avoid a repeat of the Thursday incident, during which excited fans pushed over a fence that hit Mthethwa in the face, resulting in him needing seven stitches.
Sisters Sebenzile, 54, and Nosipho Cele, 42, said they were determined to meet their idol. ”We came because we didn’t want to miss this moment, we watched Idols religiously.”
Young fan Sphelele Giza, 4, said Mthethwa is “the coolest singer ever”. “He sings better than all the other musicians, he is like my brother.”
Female fans did not miss the opportunity to declare their undying love for their idol.
“I have never voted in a competition before, Khaya was my first vote. He just took me sky high. He has real talent and he deserved to win,” said Melo Khumalo.
Ayanda Sibiya said she drove from Wentworth to meet Mthethwa. “We go to church together, he is our brother. I have known him for 22 years. He is such a big star now, but he still remembers my name.”
Mthethwa expressed his gratitude to his supporters. Speaking to the Sunday Tribune, he said he was appreciative of the support, adding that he missed the Durban vibe and its people.
He said he was looking forward to the release of his debut album in mid-November. - Sunday Tribune