“In a three-minute performance, X Factor UK contestant Gamu Nhengu captivates Simon Cowell and revitalizes a song written before her birth.”
When asked why she became a singer, 18-year-old Nhengu says she wanted to make a name for herself and do something that people would remember. She doesn’t seem anxious in front of the four judges and speaks with conviction and assurance.
“Walking on Sunshine” was the music that Nhengu selected. It’s by the 1980s new wave group Katrina and the Waves. Katrina and the Waves are well-known for a single from 1985, yet they are not a one-hit wonder. “Walking on Sunshine” is a staple of nostalgic and 1980s movies.
During her introduction, Nhengu informs the judges that she has made some changes to her song. The judges and audience are naturally curious about what she did, but she doesn’t say if it was a different arrangement or a lyrical adjustment. When Nhengu starts singing after the introductions, she doesn’t let anyone down.
Simon Cowell seems to have skipped breakfast and has a rumbly tummy, while the other three judges are all grinning. ” Simon responds to Nhengu’s assertion that she altered her music by saying, “I’m excited to see what you’ve done with this song.”
The crowd immediately notices Nhengu’s energy and wit, even if Simon’s sullen expression lasts the entire song. Although her changes were minor, they changed the song’s overall meaning. The chorus of Nhengu’s rendition starts, “You’re my sunshine/, but you gotta go,” in contrast to the original song’s opening line, “You’re my sunshine/and don’t it feel wonderful.”
This suggests that a breakup is the subject of the song. She is told by Nhengu that she does not wish to wait for her romantic partner for the rest of her life. This authoritative approach is a good fit for Nhengu’s mannerisms, including her body language, caustic delivery, and clothing. Nhengu has a large rose bow in her hair and is fully clothed in a floor-length gown.
The other judges have only had positive things to say about Nhengu. Louis Walsh practically bursts with praise, saying the young artist has “something extremely pleasant” about her and praising her energy, attitude, and song choices. Any observer would concur with Walsh’s assessment of Nhengu as “soulful.”
Simon, however, did not appear impressed. “I’m leaving, to be honest with you,” Simon states. The house music shifts, and the room becomes quiet. One of my worst songs ever was performed by you. Simon then pauses to get his breath. Until Simon responds, “You did something different with it–I like you,” everything seems to stop.
Simon keeps praising Nhengu’s jazzy style, and she seems to breathe for the first time in a few minutes. Following her tearful account of her mother, Game receives a yes from each of the four judges. “A million percent yes,” Simon even exclaims as Nhengu’s lover enters the stage to congratulate her ecstatic daughter. Sometimes the best way to show off your amazingness is to change things up.
