Asanda Jezile, a passionate and self-described “little bit of a diva” from South Africa, made her goals clear when she performed on Britain’s Got Talent in 2013. She displayed the confidence of a seasoned performer while being just eleven years old, stating that Beyoncé and Rihanna were her main influences and that she aspired to be like them. Her mother also acknowledged that she could scarcely stop singing around the house, so the judges would be able to witness firsthand the aspiring star’s undeniable passion of music.
Asanda sang “Diamonds,” a global popular song by Rihanna, in a way that completely defied her age. She not only sang the song but also dominated the stage with a range of strong dance moves and an angry attitude. She could hit every note with unmatched strength and control because her voice was so strong. Asanda’s ability to combine such vocal skill with skillful stage choreography instantly wowed the panel; Alesha Dixon said the young singer “got some moves” mid-song as the audience erupted in cheers.
The judges were astounded and struggled to relate the girl in front of them to the enormous scope of the performance. Asanda was “like a little diamond,” according to Alesha Dixon, who was “lost for words” and had a “incredible” voice. Simon Cowell, the show’s most critical judge, was especially impressed with her stage presence, calling it the most amazing he had ever seen from an 11-year-old. After calling her audition “seriously, seriously good,” the judges immediately gave her four thunderous “yeses.” With more than 100 million views, this catapulted the young diva to the next level and made her a viral sensation.
