From working at a local car wash, Mlondi Mkhize (26) is now dreaming of making it on the big stage after he made it through theatre week on SA Idols.
The Llovu Township resident wowed the judges at his Durban audition, but the real test was always going to be whether he could make it through the next tough challenge. That he did, while all around him competent singers were sent home for not cutting it during the tough group section.
“I believe I have what it takes to make it. I have a suitable voice and most people believe in me,” said the likeable young man when asked what made him enter Idols.
“I thought I should enter, since I have always been great when it comes to singing.”
Mlondi was born in Llovu Township and attended Mthombeni Primary School in the township and Ganges Secondary School in Durban, where he matriculated in 2012.
To increase his chances of getting a golden ticket to make it to theatre week at Sun City, Mlondi started preparing for his audition in November by singing different song genres at home. “The Idols platform was a great opportunity for me to rediscover my talent. I knew I stood a chance.
I was really over the moon when I got a golden ticket and sometimes when I watch the audition, I can’t believe that it’s me singing.
I feel so proud of myself and quite happy that I can sing like that.
I started with music when I was in primary school. I also sing at social gatherings and events like weddings.
It is something I would like to pursue as a career. I would like to go far where music is concerned.”
Mlondi is also a good soccer player and competent dancer.
“I work full-time at a car wash, as times are hard at this stage. I finished matric and couldn’t find a job, so instead of staying at home, I just decided to do something with my life.
I don’t make much money, however I am saving to go back to school, as I want to further my studies.
My ultimate goal is to become a firefighter or a paramedic, as I enjoy helping people.
While washing cars I would sing to myself and people started complimenting me on it.”
