It was a big surprise to hear that Bonang Matheba was joining Mzansi Magic’s forthcoming show, Clash of the Choirs, after leaving SABC1’s Live.
It was another surprise to learn that radio personality Anele Mdoda would be a judge on this show.
But, there is nothing surprising in finding out that gospel diva Rebecca Malope will also be joining the judging panel together with Lindelani Mkhize. The two know a thing or two about choral music and their input will come from first-hand experience.
Breaking away from her busy schedule, Malope gave some time to answer questions we had about her involvement in the show.
“I am just grateful I was considered for the show,” she said.
“I just give the grace to God because I know that when the organisers sat down to look for someone for this post, a lot of people came to mind. Some of them even know a lot more about the subject than I do so I am thankful they decided to choose me.”
In the show seven celebrities assemble choirs from all over the country and bring them to Joburg to compete, Idols-style. The choirmasters include, Khaya Mthethwa, Zakes Bantwini, Zwai Bala, Sipho “Hotsix” Mabuse, Thembi Seete, Judith Sephuma and Winnie Khumalo.
Each celebrity had a different region from which to source talent and they have brought back the best voices from each area. The judges will then sift through these voices to see which celebrities have the best ensemble.
“It is hard for me to be a judge because I have to be honest and yet some of the people who will be on the show are fans of mine. Still, my job is to tell the truth and I will try my level best to encourage all contestants,” Malope said.
A product of a talent show, Malope understands what this show means to the hopeful contestants and urges everyone in the running to take it seriously.
“This is bigger than anything I have seen. Clash of the Choirs is an international brand and we are bringing it to the country for the first time. That is great news because it gives hope to that kid sitting at home after matric with nothing else to do with his/her life even though he/she is talented in singing,” she said.
Since not everyone will make it, Malope feels some talented people will be cast out as the competition goes on, and she is willing to help them in any way she can.
“I am open to discussions with any of the youngsters who do not make it. I will probably not help them directly, but I will point them in the relevant direction that ties in with their needs,” she explained.
Having seen the contestants so far, the singing sensation is convinced this show is going to be another TV hit.
“Let me just say that South Africa has talent. The one thing I love about choral music is clean harmonies and the choirs we have are all capable of that. It is going to be an interesting contest. I wish them all the best, but they should remember not to be too excited, to the point of ruining their performances,” she said.
After adding this gig to her CV, Malope still has to go back to hosting the popular show, It’s Gospel Time, and working on her 34th studio album.
• Clash Of the Choirs starts Sunday, 5.30pm on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161).