Nigerian Idol: Why you should check it out

If you can't get enough of singing talent shows, you need to tune into The Africa Channel (Sky 209, Virgin 828) for Nigerian Idol.

Yes, that Idol. But with a Nigerian flavour.

Ennui with the likes of X Factor and American Idol has seen viewing figures for these shows drop on both sides of the Atlantic. However, it's definitely worth checking out Nigerian Idol which is simultaneously familiar and different.

It may just reinvigorate the interest we all had in these shows before there became too many of them.

The Ryan Seacrest/Dermot O'Leary of Nigerian Idol is Ill Rhymz - he keeps the show together and will take viewers through all the highs, lows, tantrums and tears as we approach the live final in mid-April.
 
The judging panel includes dance/disco legend Jeffrey Daniel of Shalamar fame. Although an American group, they enjoyed bigger success in the UK, amassing a string of hits including A Night to remember, I Can Make You Feel Good, There It Is and Friends.

To those in the know, he is the very first man to perform the Moonwalk on TV (he did it on Top of the Pops to Shalamar hit, A Night To Remember).

In other words, he taught Michael Jackson how to do the Moonwalk. Jeffrey has been with the show since it began.

There is also Femi Kuti (son of the legendary Fela Kuti) and Nigeria’s soul diva, Yinka Davies. The songs are invariably those of global superstars such as Adele, Whitney and Mariah, but there's also a surprise rendition or two.

UK viewers can have their say about the show on The Africa Channel Facebook page (or follow Nigerian Idol on Twitter).

Make a date in your calendar every Saturday and Sunday at 9pm for the latest instalments.

MSN TV editor Coops

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