Gift Gwe - Mr Smooth

Gift featured on V's album

2007-02-07T09:36:00.000+02:00

Vèronique Lalouette's debut solo album "As I Am" was released last year under hew own label, GWYG Records.

She roped in Gift Gwe for one of the songs on the album. The song - "I Must Still Love You", is an up tempo R'nB duet written by R.J. Benjamin and Danny K.

"I've always admired Gift from the very first time I heard him sing", says V," I knew I wanted to have him on my album long before production started."

Gift becomes a Dad and husband

2007-02-07T09:30:00.000+02:00

Posted orginally in Tonight newspaper:

Idols runner-up gets a gift of his own

February 3, 2007The life of Idols runner-up Gift Gwe has changed significantly in the last six weeks.In that short time, the tall Queenstown-born singer, whose laid-back charm and jazzy voice made him a national heart-throb, has become a dad and married his sweetheart.This week Gwe, 23, said he was enjoying being a family man and that his son, Khanya, who was born in Durbanville on December 14 last year, was the light of his life.
top.

"I love him a lot, that's why I have bound myself in marriage," says Gwe.

Gwe married Notukela Makohliso, 22, at his grandparents' home near Queenstown in the Eastern Cape last month. - Own Correspondent

Gift Gwe clinch Solo Album Deal with Sony-BMG

2006-12-29T10:27:00.000+02:00

I've been waiting for this moment since 2005 and finally I can write it down - Gift Gwe got an album deal with Sony -BMG!

Gift started writing songs for his new album in 2006 and the songs were recorded in November. Gift hopes it will hit stores in early 2007.

Gift's fellow Idol contestant Nhlanhla Mwelase also got an album deal with Sony-BMG and he worked with producer Joe Nina.

Where not sure which producer Gift worked with but he hoped to secure the services of Zwai Bala. All the best for you new album Gift, we'll be looking out for it in all the CD stores.

Gift got pranked by Wackhead

2006-12-29T10:08:00.000+02:00

Wackhead Simpson, 94.7 DJ and Laugh out Loud comedian, pranked Gift last year in a hilarious stint where Wackhead pretended to be a gay Collin Moss.

You can now listen to this prank call on Wackhead's latest CD called - 'Whackhead's Windown on the World.' It's the 5th track on disk 2 and titled: 'Idols Runner Up Gift Gwe'.

Gift's gigs for 2007

2006-12-29T09:40:00.000+02:00

Gift has been in the music industry since 2005 and he's still bringing the house down with his energetic performances.

2007 will be no different for Gift and his diary's already full with a variety of gigs. The Art Festival 2007 is one of them. You can catch Gift performing at this festival and he will also be running a workshop on how he did what he did to become a star!

Dates: 2nd, 3rd and 4th March 2007

For more info click here

Celebrity "Rag Doll Look-A-Like" Auction

2006-10-01T21:41:00.000+02:00

Celebrity “rag doll look-a-like” such as Minki van der Westhuizen, Jo-Ann Strauss, Soli Philander, Ferdinand Rabi, Herschel Gibbs, Schalk Burger, Gift Gwe as well as George and Karien from 7de Laan will be auctioned off at this prestigious function hosted by Celebrity Auctioneer Christian Stewart.

All proceeds will be donated to the Reach for a Dream Foundation.
Friday, 29 September from 19.00 in the Arena - Tyger Valley Mall

Cows before Vows

2006-10-01T09:40:00.000+02:00

This article was originally published on page 3 of The Star on August 28, 2006
By Linda Mbongwa

Gift Gwe, the runner-up in this year's Idols competition, has confirmed that his wedding plans are at the ukucela stage.

The singer, who was born in the Eastern Cape and moved to Johannesburg recently, says he sent his family representatives to meet with his fiancee's parents in a traditional ceremony during which a man pays a certain fee as a gesture of friendship to his bride-to-be's family.

Gwe met his 21-year-old fiancee, Nothukela Makohliso, in December 2004 and started going out with her last year, after he had broken up with his former girlfriend.

Although he didn't want to reveal the date, he confirmed plans to have a traditional wedding.

The couple are expecting a child in four months' time.

"I've never been to a traditional wedding, so both of us are more interested in something traditional rather than a white wedding - maybe we'll consider one at a later stage for the sake of exchanging vows," Gwe says.

"My mom understood when I told her I wanted to get married. She was happy with it, although I expected her to shout at me," he says.

Since the Idols contest, Gwe has been working on an album, which will be released next year. "It's about the pros and cons. It's about my life, the life of Gift and nobody else. It's about my love life, pain and happiness.

"It has been difficult," he says, adding that he has been attending church several times a week "to empower himself"."If I don't have God, then I might as well do drugs. It's a hectic life," says Gwe.

Gift Gwe on the social merry-go-round

2006-08-14T09:24:00.001+02:00

Both the Sowetan and the Burger mentioned that Gift's girlfriend is pregnant.

Here is what the Sowetan had to say:

The Dome conference room was where to be if all you needed was good food and a good laugh. It was Metro FM’s I Am Woman function and they proved the African-time stereotype right, sauntering in an hour late and still looking for the best seats.

Speaking of baby-making, Nothukela Makhohliso, Gift Gwe’s (of Idols fame) pregnant girlfriend was straining to let everyone know she is getting married soon. She was glued to him like chewing gum. Way to go Miss Makhohliso. There are too many vultures out there and everyone knows that Gift is a rare find.

Gift working his magic with the crowd

2006-07-13T10:28:00.000+02:00

Gift sings for World Vision

2006-07-07T12:38:00.000+02:00

Some of South Africa's top young performers have got together and recorded a song for Christian relief and development organisation World Vision South Africa. The artists who have given their time and talent to make this recording possible are Gift Gwe. Slikour, Flabba, Shuga Smackx, Morafe, Bricksz, Lira, Lee Kasumba, Tebogo Moloto and Pabi Moloi. The song starts with a recorded message from Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.

A number of the performers recently supported World Vision in its 40-hour Famine and decided they wanted to become more actively involved in addressing the plight of children in South Africa through the medium they know best - music. As the lyrics go they felt "there comes a time when we all need a hand".

Says World Vision marketing and communications manager, Penny Bryce: "I appreciate the commitment of these young musicians in actively doing something about poverty and hunger among the children.
"For many of them memories of childhood experiences give them a deep understanding of hunger, cold and poverty."

She says their energy and enthusiasm, together with the team at JazzWorx, is remarkable and commendable.
"We can only hope that they inspire the same level of commitment and action on the part of all young South Africans, because if we all stand together we can fight poverty and make a difference in our children's lives."

Bryce says the song will only be released to radio stations at this stage and may be made available to the public later, depending on demand.

You Spectacular — Huisegenoot Skouspel

2006-07-04T09:38:00.000+02:00

Gift pefored at the annual You magazine special, which celebrates those who made the shortlist on a nationwide poll.
Arno Carstens, Watershed, Prime Circle, Karen Zoid, Judith Sephuma and Karin Kortje also performed.

Gift made Cosmopolitans 100 sexiest men list

2006-06-08T14:49:00.000+02:00

Ooh so popular

2006-06-02T14:53:00.000+02:00

In a recent article in Cape Times a survey was done to find out what celebrities teenagers would date.

Cricket player Makhaya Ntini, rugby player Brian Habana, performer Zola, YFM DJ Paul, Mnisi, Idol Gift Gwe, Idol presenter Colin Moss and 5 Fm DJ Gareth Cliff made the dream date list.

Well done Gift you made this list and the Cosmopolitan 100 sexiest list as well.

Gift almost stripped naked by ‘crazy’ female fans.

2006-05-23T11:48:00.000+02:00

So is the grass greener in Swazi-land? Gift found out for himself when he performed at the popular club -' Why Not ' on a Saturday night.

Being mobbed by fans is something Gift is used to but if the fans are Swazis then it's a different story.

He played tracks that got fun lovers screaming in wild frenzy through out. Revellers, mainly females literally drooled over the smartly-dressed entertainer, occasionally throwing themselves at him.

Gift admitted that he was flattered and that he never expected such to happen as he though he was least known in the country. “This was my first performance in Swaziland and I never thought I could be so popular,” he said.
He added that he had a ball of a time in the country, saying that he wished to come back. He said one thing he liked about the country is the nature of the Swazi people and its scenic beauty.
He was just a marvel to listen to as he serenaded music lovers, unleashing mesmerising tracks by the world’s greatest.

His second track was by Brian McKnight, a song that got them singing along before belting out other hits like ‘ I feel it in my fingers’, ‘Faith’, ‘Dreams come true’, ‘Ordinary people’. He was also seen removing his neck tie and throwing it to the crowd.
When playing the song ‘Stuck on you’, Gift was joined by one lady from the audience. More groovy tracks came from the artist including Cinderella and a song by Usher which had to be repeated twice due to public demand.

These are some of the songs that sent fun lovers to a frenzy such that some threw themselves on to the artist after he jumped off stage to dance on the dance floor. He was soon hugging and greeting his fans most of whom were ladies who wanted hang on him.

Being mobbed by fans is something Gift is used to but if the fans are Swazis then it's a different story.
Gift had a tough time trying to please each and every one of his fans who wanted to chat with him. He was mobbed by mostly female fans. At some point during his performance, Gift dismounted the stage for the dance floor, and was almost stripped naked by ‘crazy’ female fans.

After his performance he had people trying to hug and talk to him and was patient enough as he tried to please each one of them.

Idols Return - but this time in Afrikaans..

2006-05-15T12:01:00.000+02:00

It's no surprise that after Heinz, Anke and Karin (all Afrikaans speaking contestants) won Idols I, II, III, somebody said: "Hey, but shouldn't we have an Idols competition exclusively in Afrikaans. And after all the speculation it is finally confirmed
Idols is back in an Afrikaans format. The first episode will be aired on Sunday 28 May from 17:30 - 19:00 on kykNet (DStv-chanel 35).

Gift will even tell you that more than 60 % of his fan base is Afrikaans speaking people. Gift's fellow Idols Nicky de Lange and Deidre Visser also enjoyed the Afrikaans market and Idol I contender Bianca has now releases an Afrikaans CD titled: "My Somer".

The judges for the new season are Taliep Petersen, Mynie Grové and Deon Maas. Eden boy band member Sean Else is going to take over Collin Moss role as the new Idol host.

The new Idol will be announced on the 27 August and the winner will walk away with a record deal from SonyBMG and a brand new Peugeot 206.

Gift to perform in Swaziland

2006-04-21T02:27:00.000+02:00

By Mphikeleli Msibi

SOUTH Africa pop idol finalist Gift Gwe will be making his debut appearance in the country next week Saturday.
The artist's performance is billed for Why Not Disco and Nightclub, making him the second SA pop idol to be hosted by the club. "We are hosting the South African superstar next week and are finalising a few things here and there including the entrance fee," said Terrence Ginindza aka Xtra Luv Thang.

He added that once everything has been confirmed members of the public would be informed. He urged fun lovers to come to the show and listen to a voice that has a melody.

The Why Not trio of Xtra Luv Thang, Mad Max and 2 Short will be performing alongside invited the artist. "They shall be performing before and after Gift's performance," said Ginindza, urging fun lovers to support the event.

"People should come in their numbers and I can promise that they will not be disappointed as the artist is more than ready for action,” he said. The 21-year-old artist, a runner-up in the recent Idols 2005 competition, was quoted saying he has music in his genes. The sound engineering student said he has always been very interested in music and sang in the church choir in his home town, Mossel Bay.

He dreams of an international music career and believes he can make it, judging by his success, so do many others. "We are very proud to announce that Gift will be appearing in the country next week," said Ginindza.

Meanwhile, Gift has been performing from an early age. Some of his earliest memories are performing in church from the age of three, experiences he credits for the development of his obvious understanding of, and love for, vocal harmony. "I can not really recall those days properly but my mother was very involved in the church choir and they had to keep me from jumping onto the stage. The choir members eventually conceded and made me my own choir uniform. I think the ladies thought I was cute all decked out like that," says Gift.

Gift continued to perform all the way through his school career and finally made his first attempts at solo in public performances when a community organisation in Mosselbay put on a talent search based on the Idols format, shortly after Idols made its South African debut in 2002. "That was the first time I realised that I could potentially make a career out of something that I'd love doing all the time."

In 2004 Gift was involved in a student production where a lecturer spotted his performingability, which led to his first paying gigs in industrial theatre. "Those industrial theatre jobs really loosened me up and taught me how to interact with an audience. I am really grateful for what I learned on those jobs," he says

Gift goes hungry for charity

2006-04-05T09:45:00.000+02:00

"Have you ever thought what it would be like to have no food in your home and no money in your pocket?"
This question was posed by Desmond Tutu in a video message shown during the launch of World Vision's "40 hours of famine" campaign in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.

Gift Gwe is one of a number of well-know celebrities that have thrown their weight behind the famine from the 5th of May until the 7th. How the 40-hour famine will work is that these celebrities have to go Forty hours without solid food. Or, for people who cannot do that, 40 hours without electronic devices, in the alternative techno-famine.Those participating are asked to find sponsors for each hour they fast. The money collected will benefit the programmes that World Vision is running.

World Vision is a worldwide Christian organisation that addresses the causes and consequences of poverty, primarily focusing on children. Last year more than 100-million people in 96 countries benefited from its work, among them more than 36 000 children in South Africa.

We wish Gift all the best with his hungry strike and hope he raises a lot of money for charity.

Gift birthday messages

2006-03-31T09:19:00.000+02:00

Hey Gift. Hope u keeping well. Just want to wish u all the best for your birthday. May all your dreams be realized - i think your dream of singing has definately been realized. Gift, u're a born entertainer - would be so cool if u were to perform at THE PEOPLE'S CONCERT.
Can't wait for your cd bro. Have a fantabolous birthday - keep on smilin' & rocking dude...
Best Wishes,
Sash

GIFT, BAIE, BAIE geluk met jou verjaarsdag! Mag die Here jou seën en mag jy die dag geniet en net geluk, voorspoed en plesier ervaar, ook vir die jaar wat voorlê! Altyd jou fan!!
Amanda

Happy Birthday Gift!

2006-03-24T09:32:00.000+02:00

Gift Gwe is turning 22, and on behalf of everybody on this blog and all his fans I would like to wish Gift a Happy Birthday. May this be a great year for you and may all your dreams come true.
We love you Gift!
xxx all your fans.

If you would like to leave a personal birthday message to Gift email it to me (zanibarrish@yahoo.com) and I will then post it on the blog

Gift as a little guy

2006-03-22T09:50:00.000+02:00

Thank you Ms Lenise Hendricks for sending me this picture of Gift, grading at the local creche in Mossel Bay.

"'n Misterieuse moordSPEL vol spanning"

2006-03-14T15:15:00.000+02:00

Gift appeared on Pasella. See my article ' If looks could kill ' published March 13th on this blog.

To read the article on the Pasella website visit this link:
http://www.pasella.com/episode.asp?action=insert&date=20060319&position=1

Fantastic Four features at Fundraiser

2006-03-13T15:20:00.000+02:00

The fantastic four Idols – Gift, Karin, V and Nicky performed at the ABSA stadium on March 11 for a special fund raising show.

Algoa FM DJ Gordon Graham warmed up the crowd before each of the ‘idols’ performed for 45 minutes. The ‘idols’ also handed out their autographs earlier that day at Hemingways Casino.

After the stadium show the 'idols' returned to Hemingways for an invitation-only after-show party. All this was done for a good cause and organised by parents from the Winterberg Agricultural High School in Fort Beaufort as a fundraising effort to send their first team rugby side on tour to Argentina in June. Who knows maybe V and Nicky can even go along to cheer the team along.

If looks could Kill

2006-03-13T10:44:00.000+02:00

This Sunday at 4.30pm Gift appeared on the popular lifestyle Programme Pasella on SABC2. The program featured a "live" Pirate party game in the form of the popular Murder Mystery Party concept. The game sees a group of people gathering either at a home or another venue and acting out the various characters.

The idea is to do everything in grand style - themed costumes, full props to suit the theme of the party, right down to the food. Party Creations has been charged with organising the party. Gift as Sir Henry Morgan and Pasella presenter Paul Rothman as the fearsome Captain Bluebeard, were real pros.

Between takes Kim Clayton-Millar caught up with the ever-charming Gift and spoke to him about his role.

Gift took the acting part as the pirate Sir Henry Morgan when an agent friend suggested he would be perfect for the role of the dreadlocked Morgan, who became the governor of Jamaica.

Gift is currently based in Johannesburg and is about to start recording his new album. "My album will probably come out round about the end of August but it depends on who I am working with, and how fast we are working."

The popular star is trying to get his debut offering out to his fans while maintaining a frantic schedule.

"It's really hectic; during the week I'm really busy doing corporate gigs and such, but I am looking forward to the album release as it is my first and I have always dreamt of bringing out my hits. I hope people will love it."

Meantime it's a shout from the director and handsome Sir Henry is called back to duel it out with Captain Bluebeard.

Gift talks about his move to Egoli

2006-03-13T10:16:00.000+02:00

Here is the Afrikaans article 'Gift Gwe praat oor trek na Goudstad' translated into English

JOHANNESBURG. – “I don’t even know where is north or south.”
said Gift Gwe, runner up of Idols 2005, when he talked about his move last week from Cape Town to Johannesburg.

Gwe is currently staying in a flat in Grayston drive, Sandton and he explains that he had to move because there are more opportunities for him to perform in Joburg.

“I can’t get used to all the roads. If you take the one off-ramp then it’s a mission to find the on-ramp again”, says Gift.
Apart from all the new things that Gwe must get used to, his heart is aching because he had to leave the love of his life behind in Cape Town. “I don’t want to mention her by name. The whole situation is very difficult for her. I’m very busy, but we were lucky to spent Valentines Day together in Cape Town.”

Gwe does have a lot of female supporters but he feels confident that he will stay faithful to his girlfriend. “When I’m on stage the girls go crazy and they’ll even go as far as yelling that they’re in love with me.” They all want attention but it is each persons responsibility to stay faithful and I will stay faithful.”

Gwe performs 3 to 4 times a week and he was invited to appear as a guest on the television program Pasella. The program was recorded yesterday and Gwe had to wear a pirate costume. “Everything is starting to happen and fall in place. I’m very excited about my career.”

Gift Gwe praat oor trek na Goudstad

2006-03-09T12:35:00.001+02:00

Kyk uit vir Gift wat Sondag 12 Maart op Pasella gaan verksyn.

JOHANNESBURG. – “Ek weet nie eens waar is noord of suid nie.”

Só sê Gift Gwe, naaswenner van Idols 2005, oor Johannesburg nadat hy verlede week van Kaapstad af hierheen getrek het.

Gwe bly op die oomblik in ’n woonstel in Grayston in Sandton en het hierheen getrek omdat hy glo baie meer gereeld vertonings hier het as in die Kaap.

“Ek is nog glad nie gewoond aan die paaie hier nie. Jy vat die een afrit, maar daar is nie weer ’n oprit nie,” sê hy.

Benewens al die nuwe dinge waaraan Gwe nou moet gewoond raak, is sy hart bitter seer oor die liefde in sy lewe wat in die Kaap moes agterbly.

“Ek wil nie haar naam noem nie. Die trekkery is vir haar baie moeilik. Ek is baie besig, maar ek kon gelukkig Valentynsdag saam met haar in Kaapstad wees.”

Hoewel hy baie vroulike aanhangers het, is Gwe oortuig daarvan dat hy nie voor verleidsters sal swig nie.

“Wanneer ek op die verhoog is, raak die meisies gewoonlik mal en skree allerhande goed soos dat hulle jou liefhet.

“Hulle almal soek jou aandag, maar die verantwoordelikheid om getrou te bly berus by elke persoon self en ek sal getrou bly.”

Gwe het drie tot vier vertonings ’n week en is gister genooi as gas op die televisieprogram Pasella. Die program is gister opgeneem en Gwe moes ’n seerower-kostuum dra.

“Dit gebeur alles regtig nou en alles val in plek. Ek is baie opgewonde oor my loopbaan.

Gift performs at the launch for ''Hair That Moves''

2006-03-03T14:36:00.000+02:00

The Event Production Company turned up the beat for a fabulously funky Sunsilk launch at The Sandton Convention Centre on the evening of Sunday 19 February.

Some 1600 hairdressers from all over Gauteng arrived in colourful, glamorous droves to enjoy cocktails, and elegant dinner and vibey show featuring a line-up of some of SA's hottest talent - DJ Silly Bean, Unathi, Gift Gwe, Izinyoka, Mzekezeke and DJ Oksido got the party started immediately and kept it going all night.
"'The Hair That Moves' was an edgy launch party celebrating the client's partnership with the hairdressing fraternity, while revealing a revolutionary new product in Afro haircare," explains Karen Ashwin, The Event Production Company MD. "Under the guidance of our brilliant Creative Director Kurt Wustmann, we set out to create a fun, colourful and glamorous spectacle as a backdrop to the dramatic reveal which included giant inflatables, a drive-up on stage with local Afro-hairdressing guru Shaka, along with a hair and fashion show which was sexy and sophisticated."

Howzit George!

2006-02-27T16:36:00.000+02:00

Gift performed in George over the weekend and the show was a great success. He even walked after
the show with some of his fans. Check out the pics...

Hey, what's up Gift? Arts Festival 2006, that's what!

2006-02-20T11:31:00.000+02:00

We are very proud to announce that Gift will be appearing at the Southern African Arts Festival 2006!

Every year in early March the Southern African Arts Festival is held on the corner of Langermann Drive and Gray's Terrace, Kensington. The Festival is held to provide a positive, non threatening platform for all its performers.

When: 3rd, 4th and 5th March 2006. 7-9.30pm Friday evening, 10am-9.30pm Saturday and Sunday.

How Much: Prices range from the full weekend at R300 per person or R250 each per couple, to R75 for one day only, with special prices for children.

This is what the webiste had to say about the festival: (http://www.artsfestival.co.za)

"The Idols have had the whole country buzzing, reminding us just how much talent there is in South Africa. Where will you see this talent now that Idols 2005 has been chosen? Many of the contestants are playing in gigs all over the country, but diarize the 3rd to 5th March 2006, when at least three of the idols will be performing.

Also appearing in the concert on Saturday night will be the spell-binding guitar duo, CH2. Corneilleand Christiaan are a guitar duo that is riveting young and old alike to magical performances of rhythms and melodies ranging from Spanish to Latin and African."

Lets cut through the gobbledygook and get some facts straight

2006-02-14T10:30:00.000+02:00

Over the past weeks there's been a lot of rumours concerning Gift going around. Does he have a record deal or not? Is he going overseas or staying in South Africa.

Well here is the facts from Sonny BMG's website.
"Gift Gwe may not have taken the Idols III crown in 2005 but the overwhelming support that this singer received during the contest is proof positive that he is a star-in-the-making.
Indeed such is 21-year-old Gift's performing and singing ability (honed during his youth whilst singing in Church) that it didn't take Sony BMG long to sign him to a recording deal and release his debut single, Sometimes A Dream.

That song is a positively perfect pop ballad that is delivered by Gift in a way that ensures he owns the material. And the singer is just as adept in other musical genres, turning in a fantastic version of Justin Timberlake's "Senorita" during the Idols III contest that had his female fans (and there are plenty of those for this magnetic singer) weak-kneed.

It's been a long journey for Gift, from the small area of Bishop in the Cape Coastal town of Mossel Bay where he grew up to the national stage. The singer had been studying sound engineering before entering Idols and so was destined for a career in the music business - but after showcasing his vocal and performing gifts during Idols III, it's clear that Gift's road lies not behind the consol but in front of the mic. "

Gift performing over the weekend

2006-02-09T10:56:00.000+02:00

"Come on guys, you know the words"

2006-02-09T10:52:00.000+02:00

2006-02-09T10:41:00.000+02:00

Idols Gossip

2006-02-06T10:13:00.000+02:00

In case you wondered what's going on with the other Idols here's the load down.

American Idol - Kelly Clarkson had a fallout with Simon Cowell because she won't let them use any of her songs for the new season of American Idols.
Second runner up of the Original Pop Idols Gareth Gates is also rumoured to be in Simon's bad books and won't be getting any help from his mentor.

In South Africa things have also been heating up for the new kids on the block.
V recorded a new song for Gareth Cliff show called "Behind these bloodshot eyes" and she joked about using it as a bonus track on one of her CD's. She admitted that December was a slow month but things are picking up for her with lots of work for Corporates.

Karin moved to Boksburg, dumped her long time boyfriend and is enjoying her new lifestyle charging R20 000 per performance.

South African Idols host Collin Moss has revealed that he has been stalked by two female fans. He'll also be starring in the rugby film 'Number 10' and decided to beef up his security after a few incidents.

Gift performs at Soccer match

2006-02-06T08:57:00.000+02:00

On Sunday, February the 5th, the Kaizer Chiefs battled it out with Ajax Cape Town at Newlands. Gift Gwe and fellow idol Karin were there to provide the entertainment.

2006-01-27T11:30:00.000+02:00

Eat your heart out Gift Fans

2006-01-24T16:02:00.000+02:00

GIFT’s First Live Performance since he stepped off the Idols stage.

2006-01-24T15:57:00.000+02:00

AV DIRECT was proud to supply their pride and joy JBL SRX 700 sound system for Idols superstar GIFT GWE to perform his first live private event on.

The place was Summerville Restaurant in Camps Bay, The event was Investec Asset Managements year-end party, and the surprise entertainment act, was GIFT GWE, runner up Idols 2005 star.

As this humble new superstar entered Summerville restaurant just after 9pm on Friday 2nd December 2005, the crowd was absolutely blown away. People were screaming and cheering. While all the excitement reached boiling point and people were now all ready with cell phones to hopefully get that pic of their hero, who was going to hopefully deliver a show stopping performance.

“GIFT is an unbelievably talented singer”, says the Marketing Manager Dillon Jearey from AV Direct. He ads “even our sound engineer was in a state of goose bumps once Gift had finished his performance.”

Gift on holiday at the sea

2006-01-22T11:42:00.000+02:00

Gift on Swazi-TV

2006-01-16T15:15:00.000+02:00

LOCAL fans in Swaziland who missed South Africa's Idols III on international broadcasting channels last year can now let out a sigh of relief. Most locals never had the chance to watch it as they do not have access to international networks but now local television station Swazi TV started screening the reality programme. This started two weeks ago and it is expected to last until the final event, “Swazi TV hopes to screen all the episodes,” said the station’s Thobile Simelane. The show is slotted every Fridays at 9.30 p.m, shortly after the programme ‘From The Palace’.

Friday the 13th Poll

2006-01-13T12:04:00.000+02:00

You can choose MULTIPLE ANSWERS!

It's the weekend BABY!

2006-01-13T11:50:00.000+02:00

Hey, Hey It's Friday. Just a Reminder to all you loyal Blog readers that we will all be chatting live on the Chat system (in the sidebar) today. See you there Zani

How Googled-up are the Idols?

2006-01-06T13:24:00.000+02:00

I Google Searced a few of the Idols and Idols related topics and it actually gives you a good idea how popular or talked about they are.The categories that I search for was the The Web in General, SA pages only and the News Section.
Here are the results:

Gift Gwe:
SA Pages: 285 Hits
The Web: 18,100 Hits
News: 16 Hits

Karin Kortje:
SA Pages: 51, 600 Hits
The Web: 53,000 Hits
News: 14 Hits

Nhlanhla Mwelase:
SA Pages: 94 Hits
The Web: 106 Hits
News: 1 Hit

Nicky de Lange.
SA Pages: 737 Hits
The Web: 587,000 Hits
News: 0 Hits

Deidre Visser
SA Pages: 189 Hits
The Web: 18,000 Hits
News: 0 Hits

V Lalouette
SA Pages: 84 Hits
The Web: 67,000 Hits
News: 0 Hits

Colin Moss
SA Pages: 886 Hits
The Web: 1,780,000 Hits
News: 132 Hits

Heinz Winkler
SA Pages: 504 Hits
The Web: 1,050,000 Hits
News: 3 Hits

Anke Pietrangeli.
SA Pages: 12,400 Hits
The Web: 12,700 Hits
News: 0 Hits

Idols III
SA Pages: 74,800 Hits
The Web: 1,550,000 Hits
News: 19 Hits

Randall Abrahams
SA Pages: 654 Hits
The Web: 162,000 Hits
News: 1 Hit

Have you spotted Gift?

2006-01-04T08:58:00.000+02:00

If you have a picture of yourself with Gift please Email it to Me. (zanibarrish@yahoo.com)

Gift's New Years Resolution

2006-01-02T13:08:00.000+02:00

Gift said that in 2006 ....
he would be “changing some habits”.

“I’m performing in so many different places and venues that sometimes it’s difficult to change the habits I want to, so I make resolutions weekly, and then I can stick to them,” he said.
Gwe has already decided that 2006 will be his year for “making it internationally!”

NEWSMAKERS OF THE YEAR IN HEAT MAGAZINE

2006-01-02T12:09:00.000+02:00

Gift Gwe - The voice, the style, the smile and just the name made us fall hard....

What are your plans for this Christmas?
I'm going all the way back to Mossel Bay and I am going to spend Christmas with my mother and family. I've only seen them for one day since Idols because I missed my flight home.

What do you really want for Christmas?
I can get anything I want because I'm making money now! [Laughs] But really I want to buy things for my family ... I think I'll buy my brother clothes, and I'll get my mom some vouchers for one of those stores, so that she can choose what she wants.

And your girlfriend?
Vouchers for clothes probably. And some perfume!

Have you two been able to spend much time together since Idols ended?
Not really. We had one day together, but there are always fans who want an autograph or something. They don't really care that you are with your girlfriend. But it's cool.

What has it been like being surrounded by so many adoring girls?
It's been fun [Laughs]

Have you had lots of crazy fan experiences?
Ja! Last night I performed in Cape Town, and when I went to greet the fans they just held on to me. They go crazy, hey. The security had to help me. I thought I could handle it, but really I couldn't.

Tell us about meeting Madiba.
I was so honoured. And I got to ask him the question that I always wanted to: what kept him going for 27 years in prison? And you know what he said? "The library!". He said they had books on everything the prisoners needed to empower themselves. He's a very humble person.

What's happening with your career? Do you have a record contract as yet?
I'm waiting to hear from Dave. [Thompson from BMG]. I just want him to comfort me and tell me I have options. I'm sure I will get a contract.. It has to be coming, but if there's no deal, then I'll just make my own demo and set up my own fashion shoot and make things happen.

Lots of people-the judges included-said that you would never make it to the final...What do you want to say to them now?
I made it far because my supporters saw the good in me, and I want to say thank you to them for allowing me to get as far as I did.

New Photo's of Gift performing

2005-12-21T12:16:00.000+02:00

You have to walk the walk

2005-12-21T12:13:00.000+02:00

Wide Angle, Close-Up, Stand-Up

2005-12-21T12:05:00.000+02:00

Gift and Colin

2005-12-21T11:56:00.000+02:00

A Different Angle

2005-12-21T11:53:00.000+02:00

2005-12-21T11:13:00.000+02:00

Your Christmas Bonus - Gift, Gift and more Gift

2005-12-20T11:12:00.000+02:00

2005-12-20T11:09:00.001+02:00

2005-12-20T11:05:00.000+02:00

2005-12-20T10:59:00.001+02:00

2005-12-20T10:57:00.000+02:00

2005-12-20T10:53:00.000+02:00

2005-12-20T10:38:00.000+02:00

Gift meets his Idol

2005-12-09T09:14:00.000+02:00

Former president Nelson Mandela meets Idols winner Karin, her son Cameron and Idols runner-up Gift in Johannesburg. (Shayne Robinson, PhotoWire Africa)

Gifts dream finally came true on Wednesday 7 December when he met his Idol Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg. Accompanying him was Idols winner Karin and her son Cameron. A big fan of the two contenders, Madiba bestowed them with the following praise: 'We are proud of them and we hope that they will inspire all our young people and teach them that one's past or background does not determine one's future.'' He congratulated Karin on her success and said that Gift proved that you can be an Idol whether you win or not. 'It isn't always important to win. It's how you conduct yourself in a competition.'

He added that he was pleased that, despite their hip status as Idols, the two had made time ''to visit an old man.'' Both Karin and Gift have committed themselves to being available for community visits as part of the 46664 HIV campaign.

Gift seem to be enjoying continued fame from the competition and is fully booked for gigs throughout December. According to Gift the biggest change he’s had to get used to is the constant flashing of cameras and people begging him to sign autographs!

Gift Photo Feast!

2005-12-06T12:45:00.000+02:00

photo credit: Marcus Maschwitz from Melon Graphics Visit: www.melongraphics.co.za or call: 011 524 0258

You can all look forward to lots of great Gift photo's that I will post next week on the site.
And all thanks to Marcus who took photo's of Gift being being interviewed on KTV, 5FM, Singing Solo in private rehearsal,
and his with his whole family.

The Perfect Christmas Gift

2005-12-05T12:28:00.001+02:00

The Gift CD Single is out in the stores now. Going for only R40.00 this single has 2 songs on it - 'Sometimes A Dream' and 'Senorita'. I got mine at the CD shop 'Music 4 You' and there were only a few CD's left so hurry up if you want one before Christmas.

Giftimize your Phone

2005-12-03T13:45:00.000+02:00

To download this wallpaper, SMS the code to 36807 (R5/SMS)

W2206123

For your True Tone SMS the code next to the Tone to 36807 (R5/SMS)

Gift - Im stuck on you - Lionel Ritchie - W2500538
Idols - Theme Song - W2500481

I want to make some changes to this blog - but need your help

2005-12-03T13:26:00.000+02:00

Everybody's got the Gift fever!

2005-12-03T12:12:00.000+02:00

It's exciting to be an Idol!

2005-12-03T12:05:00.000+02:00

Gift on tour

2005-12-03T11:38:00.000+02:00

2005-12-03T11:35:00.000+02:00

Head or Shoulders

2005-12-03T11:28:00.000+02:00

Gift and Karin decided with a coin who would sing first. Gift won the toss

The voting Results are finally released!

2005-11-30T11:33:00.000+02:00

M-Net has followed up on its promise to release voting details for Idols 2005.
Over 10 million votes were cast this season, making Idols III the most successful year yet! The results which appear below are based on votes received from the public via SMS, IVR and on the Idols website, together with the judges’ rankings. The judges ranked the contestants directly after the show on a Sunday, long before 18:35 on Mondays, when the public voting lines closed.

The statistics for the competition from the Group phase, through to the Final, appear below. Each contestant’s number of votes is represented by a percentage of the total, with the total number of votes received for each voting period reflected in the total for each week.

Voting Period : Group 3
Date : 2005/09/12
Nhlanhla Mwelase 27.99%
Gift Gwe 23.23%
Romie Noval 13.70%
Callan Maloney 13.21%
Mthawelanga Nkonzo 12.35%
Bjorn Hartnick 9.52%
Totals : 211,629

Voting Period : Top 12
Date : 2005/09/26
Karin Kortje 14.76%
Martelize van Niekerk 14.41%
Nhlanhla Mwelase 12.17%
Nicky de Lange 10.31%
Kesha Charlton-Perkins 8.66%
Deidre Visser 8.21%
V Lalouette 7.38%
Gift Gwe 5.63%
Pume Zondi 5.57%
Ayanda Mpama 4.92%
Bonolo Molosiwa 4.11%
Jamie-Lee Blokdyk 3.87%

Totals : 398,008

Voting Period : Top 11
Date : 2005/10/03
Karin Kortje 16.11%
Nhlanhla Mwelase 15.35%
Martelize van Niekerk 12.15%
Gift Gwe 11.56%
Nicky de Lange 9.06%
V Lalouette 8.75%
Kesha Charlton-Perkins 7.17%
Deidre Visser 6.86%
Pume Zondi 6.77%
Ayanda Mpama 4.70%
Bonolo Molosiwa 1.52%

Totals : 456,535

Voting Period : Top 10
Date : 2005/10/11
Karin Kortje 16.40%
Gift Gwe 14.10%
Deidre Visser 12.35%
Nicky de Lange 10.69%
Ayanda Mpama 10.54%
Martelize van Niekerk 10.20%
V Lalouette 9.39%
Nhlanhla Mwelase 7.94%
Kesha Charlton-Perkins 6.35%
Pume Zondi 2.04%

Totals : 659,809

Voting Period : Top 9
Date : 2005/10/17
Karin Kortje 17.28%
V Lalouette 14.51%
Gift Gwe 12.16%
Nhlanhla Mwelse 11.16%
Nicky de Lange 10.57%
Ayanda Mpama 9.56%
Deidre Visser 9.29%
Martelize van Niekerk 8.80%
Kesha Charlton-Perkins 6.67%

Totals : 598,919

Voting Period : Top 8b
Date : 2005/10/31
Karin Kortje 22.22%
V Lalouette 17.06%
Nhlanhla Mwelse 12.92%
Gift Gwe 12.08%
Nicky de Lange 11.85%
Ayanda Mpama 9.92%
Deidre Visser 7.03%
Martelize van Niekerk 6.92%

Totals : 758,659

Voting Period : Top 6
Date : 2005/11/07
Karin Kortje 28.57%
Nicky de Lange 21.48%
Gift Gwe 17.79%
V Lalouette 16.13%
Nhlanhla Mwelse 9.52%
Ayanda Mpama 6.51%

Totals : 818,046

Voting Period : Top 5
Date : 2005/11/14
Karin Kortje 30.88%
Nicky de Lange 25.03%
V Lalouette 18.37%
Gift Gwe 16.60%
Nhlanhla Mwelse 862277711 9.12%
100.00%

Totals : 1,074,568

Voting Period : Top 4
Date : 2005/11/21
Karin Kortje 32.65%
Gift Gwe 29.80%
Nicky de Lange 23.87%
V Lalouette 13.68%

Totals : 1,788,291

Voting Period : Finals (top 2)
Date : 2005/11/27
Karin Kortje 62.58%
Gift Gwe 37.42%
100.00%

Totals : 1,894,395

Total Idols Votes 10,232,283

This is all great MNET buy Why isn't the Judges votes set out! If all four judges voted for Karin in the final then it is now wonder that he got only 37% as 49% from the Judges vote went to Karin!!!

2005-11-29T11:02:00.000+02:00

2005-11-29T11:00:00.000+02:00

2005-11-29T10:57:00.000+02:00

Gift's mom 'so proud'

2005-11-29T10:51:00.000+02:00

Article by: Carin Smith

Cape Town - "Goodness, but he's doing so well."

"I wish the people could come and see for themselves how proud I am of my son and how I appreciate their support for me and my son." These were the words on Friday of Winnie Gwe of Mossel Bay, mother of Idols finalist Gift, in a telephone interview with Die Burger.

Mrs Gwe, vice-principal of the Imekhaya Primary School in Mossel Bay, at first would not hear anything about Gift's plans to enter the Idols competition. "I wanted him to first complete his schooling but when he passed the top 32, my eyes were opened and I realised that I simply had to support my child's talent," she said.
When he then even went into the Top 12 she "ran shouting for joy from the room and praised the Lord".

Learners from another school on Mossel Bay, Dias Primary, on Friday showed their support with the learners of Imekhaya Primary for Mrs Gwe and her son, bringing tears to the eyes of the proud mother."The children made posters and wrote songs for Gift," she said.

The organisers of the competition and friends have made it possible for her to travel to Johannesburg three times already to see her son on stage. "The first time was by air, the second time I took a bus and the third time was last week with friends in a minibus," she said. Even her neighbours have promised that they would support her and ensrue that she is there should Gift go through to the final round.

Gift's elder brother, Thembela, is equally proud of what the younger Gwe attained. "I told my brother that he would make it to the end. "I think it lies between him and Karin Kortjé. "I know he is now doing what he loves most."
According to Thembela he does not agree with people who are of the opinion that Gwe should not sing jazz as "he is so gifted that he can sing anything and they do not realise that".

Gift himself said from Johannesburg the remaining four finalist Idols were extremely busy at the moment.
"However, it makes a huge difference when I know my mother and some family are in the audience and they can see and hear for themselves when I sing," he said before he had to rush off and prepare for "some or other big dance thing that we have to attend".

You can vote to hear Gift's song on Radio

2005-11-28T16:56:00.000+02:00

I've become so used to voting for Gift that I can't help myself. Now you can also keep on voting for him on 5fm and 94.7 Radio Stations to hear his songs played on the radio.

Here is how:
5FM
The hi 5 @ 5 (http://www.5fm.co.za)
Your votes, your favourite music, your 25 top songs for the week.
To vote for the Vodacom High 5@5, sms "Hi5 (insert Gift Gwe) (insert Sometimes a Dream)" to 33345.

Highveld (94.7)
TAKE40SA (http://www.highveld.co.za)
It’s fresh, it’s funky and it’s brand new. Join Mark Pilgrim this Saturday from 10-2pm as he presents the all new TAKE40SA. It’s the new chart show playing the 40 biggest hits as voted for by you. Check out the hits below, vote for your current favourite and then listen out on Saturday from 10am to find out where your favourite hit song is on the chart. It’s your chart, your hits, 4 hours of hit music – TAKE40SA.
Go to the link -http://www.take40sa.co.za/votetake40sanew.asp Insert 'Sometimes a Dream' under other song and 'Gift Gwe' under artist. Voting is for free

HomeBrew Top 10 (http://www.highveld.co.za)
Every Sunday evening Julio Garcia brings you the very best in South Africa music. Between 8-9pm he counts down the HomeBrew Top 10 featuring the Hottest SA songs as voted for by you.
To vote go to the link - http://www.highveld.co.za/music/homebrew/homebrew.asp Click on Vote Button
Insert 'Sometimes a Dream' under other song and 'Gift Gwe' under artist. Voting is for free

2005-11-28T16:50:00.000+02:00

Submitted by: Wikus Visser

Gift Unwrapped

2005-11-28T16:17:00.000+02:00

'Sometimes a Dream' is Gift's new single that is already on the selves this week and also the perfect way to describe the end of Gifts Idols journey. He came so close to claiming the title but just missed out to the winner Karin Kortje at a grand finale this Sunday at Gold Reef City.Gift and his fans dreamed about him winning the competition from day one...

But he did win! Maybe not the car or the Idols title but Gift still remains number one for all his fans. With a brilliant single, R50 000 in his pocket, and the promise of a record deal from Dave Thomspon it is best to describe Gifts future in his own words:"Please somebody hand me some shades, cause the future is looking bright!"

Singing the songs 'Senorita', 'End of the Road' and 'Sometimes a Dream' in the final show, Gift got really nice comments from the judges who praised him for his voice, his personality, his hard work and for just being himself - a true gift to Idols and the music Industry.

Gift's competitor Karin really worked hard from day one and her rags to ritches story warmed the hearts of many South Africans. When Collin finally announced that she won she was so overcome with emotion that she couldn't sing her single. One couldn't help but feel really happy for her and know that she will put the money to good use for her and her son Cameron.

After seeing Anke's bad performance (was she drugged the way she sang with closed eyes) and Heinz weird dance moves (He should take lessons from Gift) I couldn't help but think that Karin will be 100% better than them.

It was also nice to see the rest of the top 12 especially my other favourites Kesha, V, Deidre and Ayanda and I'm postive that each one of the top 12 will make it big.

With Sunday and Monday nights back to normal we can at least look forword to seeing Gift and Karin performing together over the December holidays. Last but least I have to say that I will miss most of the judges (Dave and Gareth) and Colin even if his comments became way to cheesy Sunday night: 'That's a wrap Gift'.

Gift and Karin charms the Friendly City

2005-11-28T15:25:00.000+02:00

Just picture a typical morning in the windy streets of the friendly city with people going there way, stoping at the Cleary Park Mall and strugling through the traffic on Main Street.... that was untill Gift and Karin came on the scene.

Early-morning commuters in Walmer, Port Elizabeth couldn't believe their luck when their favourite Idols surprised them on Thursday morning by handing out ''election posters'' at an intersection on Main Street… Shortly afterwards, the Idols dramatically raced through suburban streets under police escort on their way to the Cleary Park Mall, where they spent two hours signing autographs.

Algoa FM played hosts to the Idols in the afternoon, starting with an interview on Buli G’s show. Gift and Karin faced the Eastern Cape media over lunch at News Café, and then gave thousands of fans an unforgettable mini-concert at the Boardwalk. After being whisked to a floating stage by jet-ski, a characteristically cool Gift sang ''Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me'' and ''Faith''. One besotted female fan tossed him a ring across the water, which he nimbly caught and now wears proudly! Karin sang ''When I Need You'' and ''Can’t Fight The Moonlight''.

And then it was on to Durban, where over 500 fans turned out after 20:00 to welcome their Idols to KZN. Gift and Karin were thrilled to shake hands and exchange hugs with supporters before departing for their hotel. On Friday 25 November, they appeared on the East Coast Radio breakfast show, and signed autographs at the Pavilion Shopping Centre.

2005-11-25T09:32:00.000+02:00

All the Poll Results

2005-11-25T09:22:00.000+02:00

Why is GIFT so popular?
You Voted: He's the funkiest Idol

What duets should Gift and Marty sing?
You Voted: ‘My Boo’ - Alicia Keys and User

Gift's fashion style is ....
You Voted: He's clothing is funky and cool

Should the next idols have the same judges?
You Voted: Yes but - without Mara

Why was Gift in the bottom two?
You Voted: More people voted for V after the Mara insident
And Gift fans felt he was safe and didn't vote

What type of music should Gifts first CD feature?
You Voted: Combination of Music

Which 2 songs should Gift sing in the finals?
You Voted: "Faith" and "Don’t let the sun go down on me"

Gifts family talks about his talent

2005-11-25T08:54:00.000+02:00

When Gift braved the preliminary auditions of Idols III in Cape Town four months ago, his mom Winnie thought he would be sent straight back home – as he had in previous competitions. Gift’s selection into the Top 32 surprised her; his selection into the Top 24 shocked her. Winnie was in the M-Net studios during the live Results Show on Monday night (21 Nov) when Colin Moss announced her son’s name as one of the finalists in the toughest talent contest on TV. ''I was sitting on my chair and I bent down and cried. I couldn’t believe it… I still can’t believe it.''

She’s been praised for her prescience in aptly naming her son ''Gift'', an unplanned child who she still considers ''a Gift from God.'' On the eve of the Idols finale, she’s rightfully proud, excited and anxious for the verdict. She reckons Gift’s got a good chance of winning, but doesn’t know what she’ll do if he does: ''We’ll have to relax and plan carefully what we’re going to do… I do know that he has to come back and celebrate with the people of Mossel Bay – they are so proud of him.''

Lenise Hendricks was one of the first people (apart from his mother) to `discover’ Gift’s gift as a performer when he was in Grade 10. A believer in his talents, she stood behind him during Matric, taught him how to drive, encouraged his application to study Sound Engineering at Damelin, supported his musical group, Gime J (made up of friends Gino, Gift, Megan and Joselyn), and encouraged him to audition for Idols III. To Lenise, Gift is a ''Black Stallion'' who she thinks has the whole package – and gift – to win the competition.

Lenise describes activity and excitement in Mossel Bay as ''Gift Fever'': cars (including her own) are painted with the Idol’s name and voting number, school children are getting involved by making posters of their local hero and picketing, and the Mayor of Mossel Bay’s pitching in by organizing a Bring `n Braai bash on the beach on Sunday (27 Nov) in honour of the finale, replete with fireworks, live music and a big screen. At the local Pick `n Pay, a ''Gift Box'' has been erected for supporters to donate airtime to enable more people to vote for their Idol.

Song Selection for the Finals

2005-11-25T08:49:00.000+02:00

Gift
Gift’s Choice: ''Senorita'', Justin Timberlake
Judges’ Choice: ''End of The Road'', Boyz II Men
Winner’s Single: ''Sometimes A Dream'', Original

Karin
Karin’s Choice: ''Natural Woman'', Aretha Franklin
Judges’ Choice: ''If I Can’t Have You'', Yvonne Elliman
Winner’s Single: ''I’m So Ready'', Original

I'm a bit disapointed with Gift choosing to sing "Senorita" for his own selection. I would have prefered 'Faith' or 'Don't let the Sun go Down on me". The judges selection is, however, a bit Ironic. We all know that Gift can nail that song but don't you think it is the judges way of telling Gift he made it as far as he could.

Want Gift at your Party?

2005-11-24T13:11:00.000+02:00

Imagine having a 21st birthday, Christmas Party or Valentines day with a difference – a special Gift to make the night worthwhile. That’s right now you can actually book Gift Gwe if you want him to appear at your function and make it a true night to remember.

Here’s how:
Catalyst Entertainment
Contact number: (011) 326 1169
Email: Click office@catalyst-e.co.za

Cape Town goes Crazy for Gift and Karin

2005-11-24T12:39:00.000+02:00

Gift and Karin took Cape Town by storm on Wednesday (23 Nov) on the first leg of their week-long publicity tour. As soon as they touched down at Cape Town International, on Tuesday night, their fans went crazy and gave them a well deserved hero’s welcome. About an estimated, two thousand fans turned out to see their Idols in the flesh, with presents, flowers and welcome posters to show them their support.

Cape Town’s deputy Mayor Gawa Samuels met them at the airport, where they had a short chance to wave to their fans in the arrivals hall, before disappearing through a back exit.

''We were amazed and delighted by the enthusiastic reception Cape Town gave our Idols,'' said M-Net Publicity Manager Lani Lombard. ''Gift and Karin were very disappointed that they couldn’t go out to shake hands, but they were due to perform at a function hosted by TV Plus magazine and we would not have been able to make our way through that crowd in time to keep our appointment.''

The finalists had an early morning on Wednesday, doing live radio interviews at Kfm and Cape Talk before rushing off to the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where they were guests of honour at the Premier’s Office Long Service Awards ceremony.

Later in the morning, Huisgenoot/You magazines treated them to a helicopter flight across the Bay. ''It was a bit cold and windy, but it was wonderful,'' said an excited Gift, who had always dreamed of flying in a helicopter.

After a brief appearance at a packed-out V&A Waterfront amphitheatre, Gift and Karin made a special trip to the Amy Biehl Creative Arts after-school centre in Crossroads, where they were entertained by learners from the Qingqa school and each performed one of their Idols hits.

Tomorrow, the Gift and Karin Roadshow hits Port Elizabeth. The Idols finalists will be welcomed at the airport by Algoa fm at 7:45, before departing to the Cleary Park mall for an autograph signing session. And after lunch fans can catch up with them again at the Boardwalk, where they will perform.

On Friday, the finalists take in Durban before heading back to the Home Of Idols, Gold Reef City, for Sunday night’s gala finale at 18:30. Who will emerge South Africa’s new Idol? The votes will determine that - voting lines are open until about an hour into Sunday’s Live Extravaganza.

2005-11-23T10:03:00.000+02:00

OPERATION GIFT GWE

2005-11-22T16:43:00.000+02:00

Calling All Gifted Fans to be part of the Official Gift Gwe SWAT Team!

Our mission: To make Gift win Idols next Sunday
Our timeline: Less than a week starting now
Our Deadline: Sunday, 27 November, 18:30

How will we go about it. Here's the plan. (Take note this message will self-destruct in 5 minutes)

Gift does not have the best voice in the Idols finals (We have to give it to Karin) but he is the most marketable Idol. And that is exacly what we are going to do - market him and with talent and a name like Gift it won't be difficult.

Our strategy will be to use conventional and non-conventional advertising and PR to get Gift's name and voting number out there. People should not be able to think about Gift without immediatly going to vote for him.

The most reliable and affordable way to market somebody is "Word of Mouth." If you are wish to become a member of this SWAT team, then you must convert alleast 10 people per day to vote for Gift. Most people don't realise that they can vote for free on the webstie or that if you call - 086 22 77710 it only costs about 20 cents. Also market Gift's blog as much as possible, so that people can find out more about him. The forums are also a good idea and if we get to talk to V and Nicky fans they might also vote for Gift. (It worked with the Ayanda and Nhlanhla fans).

Business cards, Flyers and Posters is one of the conventional ways that we will go about to market Gift and his voting number. I have already designed the elements and will post them on the Blog. You can also email me to receive these elements in high resolution if you want to print them out. If all of the Gift fans for instance print out 20 business cards and leave them at restaurants, coffee shops, book stores, music stores, your University/Technicon campuses, high schools and primary schools it will make a huge difference.

The best way to distribute the flyers is at traffic lights. I seriously need man power for this. Between all of us we can cover all the areas and if you gather some friends and stand for one hour at a traffic light and hand out flyers it will make a huge difference! By doing all these elements we will get noticed and the media will write about it, resulting in free publicity for Gift.

Next for more publicity we must target all magazines and newspapers with letters telling them why Gift should win Idols.
I have noticed with previous reality programs like Big Brother and even this seasons Idols that people like to buy into a symbol that they can associate with their Idol. Remember Lee from Big Brother with her Cowboy hat and V's fans all dressed in alien headgear. Gift's mom gave me the idea when I saw that she has a 'gift' with her all the time. So I urge you all to take a box and gift wrap it. Take this along to the finals, Back of the Moon parties, Idols autograph signings and anywhere else you can think off.

Watch this space for more instructions

2005-11-22T16:42:00.000+02:00

Business Cards

Gift's Nationwide Tour

2005-11-22T09:35:00.000+02:00

This is where you can see Gift :

Wednesday (23 Nov) [CT]:

07:25 KFM and Cape Talk interviews
08:30 Western Cape Premier’s Long Service Awards
10:30 YOU Magazine Helicopter Flip, leaving from V&A Waterfront
12:30 Visit to Crossroads After-School Centre (Amy Biehl Foundation)
19:00 Idols back in JHB, performing at Back o’ The Moon

Thursday (24 Nov) [PE]:

08:00 Traffic Canvassing – Cnr 17th Ave & Main Road, Walmer
10:00 Cleary Park Shopping Centre autograph session
16:00 Performance & Autographs @ The Boardwalk

19:55 Arrive in Durban

All the best Veroniques

2005-11-22T09:23:00.000+02:00

Last night was one of the most stressfull Monday nights ever, and when Collin finally announced that Gift will be joining Karin in the finals (Sunday - 27 NOV), I gave such an exhilarating yell that my landord though someone was breaking into the house.

One a sad note the two Venoniques - Nicky and V's Idols dream reached an unfortunate yet honourable end. They received the least number of the record-breaking 1.7 million votes cast over the past 24 hours, and for them Idols is over.
Asked who they think should scoop the title of Idol and a prize package worth a staggering R3 million come Sunday (27 Nov), both girls didn’t hesitate in answering, ''Gift: he’s the favourite.''

Making the Western Cape extremely proud, Gift and Karin will start a three-day countrywide publicity tour tomorrow (22 Nov), before returning to Gold Reef City to gear up for the final on Sunday.

Voting lines is already open - So Vote for Gift - 086 22 77710

We won't let the Sun go down on Gift

2005-11-21T14:19:00.000+02:00

Great Songs, Great Idols, Great Night

I couldn't help but compare this years top 4 - Gift, Karin, Nicky, and V, to last years top 5 - Anke, Possie, Jacques, Wafeeq and Nazneen. They are just so much better - all four of them and it is really going to be crunch time tonight.

Karin gave to stellar performances, according to the judges, ('When I Need you' and 'I have nothing') and I don't see how it is possible that she won't be in the finals. What bugs me about Karin is that the Media and judges have bombarded us with her rags to ritches story and that quite frankly I have had enough. Her voice is brilliant, no doubt about it, but the same songs week after week and I'm getting bored. When Randall mentioned that he can't wait to here 50% of Karin's singing next week (so that means 2 people in the finals) I already began to yawn.

Performing an upbeat song and giving her all with the Moulan Rouge number -'Rhythm Of the Night', V tried her best to impress the judges but worked so hard at it, it looked as if she did not enjoy her performance. Her second song - "Touch me in the Morning' from Miss Ross, was a real comeback and she even outsang Karin, outsmiled Gift and beat Nicky in the fashion department. Well done V.

It's all coming Back to Me now .... Why Nicky deserves a place in the finals with Gift. Performing two difficult songs and pulling it off, while looking fantastic and enjoying herself I can see why Bloemfontein is smiling again. "How Do I Live' was her better performance, just because realisticly speaking nobody can do a Celine Dion track like Celine Dion. But Randall got it spot on when he said: "It will be your song choice that gets you in that final, not your performance." Nicky is really like a rough diamond, and with no musical background behind her I'm sure Dave realise this is rough talent at its best.

No matter how good the other 3 where I'm still stuck on Gift and got the chivers when he perfected 'Don't let the sun go down on me'. Showing that there is more to him than a pretty smile and good looks he carried his voice well
gave an excellent performance. My only concern is that some people(yes you DAVE) see Gift as unconsistant and that he never gets raving comments from the Judges in the same way as Karin or Nicky. With the confirmed 49% vote of the Judges this might be a problem.

So my predictions. If there is 3 in the final it will be Karin, Gift and Nicky and if there is only two it will be Karin and Gift.

The Article that caused controversy

2005-11-21T08:25:00.000+02:00

Do they know something we don't know?

An article published yesterday in the Sunday Times and discussed this morning on the Rude awakening radio show (94.7) has caused much panic under Idol fans and resulted into a public explanation by Carl Fisher who denied that any of the rumours, that's flying around faster than the Idols CD, are true.

The article is worded in such a way that makes it seems like Gift, Karin and Nicky is already in the finals and that Karin won the competition. (Check out the highligted areas).
Fisher said on the radio: "We make all the Idols available to the media and it is very unfortunate that they choose not to include all the Idols in their publication. They Should clearly state that even though they only talk about Gift, Karin and Nicky - V is still in the semi-final with them and has a chance making it to the finals."

So are our money wasted? Is this just a scheme? While Idol fans contemplate whether they must vote or not things are made even more difficult with SMS voting not going through and the Voting on the official site also not working. I guess only time will tell what is really going on .....

Part of the Article (Published in Sunday times). View the full article online:
http://www.sundaytimes.co.za/Articles/TarkArticle.aspx?ID=1778924

Even more fascinating are the stories about finalists and their rise from obscurity.

The transformation from zero to hero endears them to the viewer, who develops a sense that he or she owns the contestants, and determines who bags the R3-million prize.

Take the oldest top five finalist, Karin Kortje, for example. The 26-year-old announced her arrival in a dodgy poncho and even more dodgy fishnet stockings during the auditions.
She sang Shirley Bassey’s Never, Never, Never and bowled everyone over. That was less than six months ago. These days the mother of three-year-old Cameron cringes and laughs when she remembers her “what not to wear” look. The former apple-packer from Grabouw in the Western Cape has been vamped into a stylish stage queen, complete with hair extensions and flawless makeup. Kortje straddles the different music genres with ease, as much at home belting out a disco tune as she is with a mellow R&B piece.

Adding to the diverse appeal of the finalists is Gift Gwe from Mossel Bay. The 21-year-old Damelin sound- engineering student is on a ladies’ man trip, much like his idol, US R&B superstar Usher.

Nicky de Lange, the youngest top-five finalist at 19, represents a fresh pop/rock chick look. Like the last winner of Idols, De Lange is from Bloemfontein, and doing her hometown proud is uppermost in her mind.

The three represent the urban cool of being a young South African. They are hugely talented and together represent the country’s demographics, a crucial ingredient for a successful TV show.

To stay ahead of the competition, lessons will have to be learnt on how to deal with the media. But there is no shortage of role models for the victor. There’s Zamajobe Sithole, who despite losing the competition managed to release a critically acclaimed album that earned her a nomination at the recent MTV Europe Music Awards.

Although Winckler’s sales have not been huge because of his niche market, he continues to enjoy support, andfinished fourth in the most recent World Idols finals.
One piece of advice for the winner: moving from a small dorpie in the Western Cape to Joburg will prove to be one of the biggest investments you could make in advancing your career.

Julie Reviews the Idols iii CD

2005-11-20T12:49:00.000+02:00

Gift, Senorita:
This track ranks among the best on the album, and Gift sounds exceedingly smooth and sexy here. He carried off the song admirably during the Group Stages, but with the benefit of mixing and editing at his side, he sounds flawless here, and does a superb job with the call-and-answer verses at the end. Of all the songs on the CD, this is one of the easiest to imagine getting radio air play. It feels like something's heating up, alright: Gift's future as a pop star, no matter what happens this season.

To check out the full CD review visit: (http://idolsiii.blogspot.com)

Gift Wallpaper

2005-11-19T13:41:00.000+02:00

(Click on image to enlarge. Right Click, choose option set as background.)

Top 10 Idol moments

2005-11-19T13:11:00.000+02:00

Counting Down from 10 to 1

10) Kesha being brave and autitioning for Idols with a blue eye after she was in a car accident.
9) Karen Zoid clapping along while Nicky performs her song.
8) Wackhead Simpson pranking Mara Louw as V's grandmother.
7) Opening shot of Deidre surrounded by rose petals and singing :"Bed of Roses"
6) Karin in fishnet stockings, surprising everyone at her audition in CT with her voice.
5) Nhlanhla telling Collin that he'll miss the floor manager David the most
4) Ayanda singing 'Somewhere, over the rainbow'.
3) V signing during her performance of 'Your Beautiful'

2) Gift making the crowd sing along to 'end of the road' from Boys II Men
1) and the Best Moment .... Gareth Cliff saying that Gift will take the title!

Girls swoon over cool Gift

2005-11-19T10:36:00.000+02:00

One of the most phenomenal stage performers of any Idols season talks to us
SATURDAY STAR, November 19, 2005 by Angelique Serrao (aser@star.co.za)

The embodiment of cool walks on to the Idols stage. He raises his hand and smiles, the simple movement acting as a catalyst for an electric shock that quickly ripples throught the hundreds that stand at his feet.

"Gift, Gift, Gift!" the crowd chant. The girls get frantic and, just when it seems they will implode, he beginds to sing, a hush descends and they stare at the slinky black cat standing before them. There is just, well, something about Gift Gwe. He's the funkiest new star to hit South Africa's TV screens and, al though he's more subdued in real life than on stage, Gwe is the type of person everyone likes. His smile is quick and he is ready to make friends with whoeve is seated next to him.

"Hey, it's you," he laughs when he sees me standing against the wall at M-NET's Egoli studios in Johannesburg. Ignoring all the soap-opera stars milling around him, he gives me a big hug. He has only met me once, yet this charismatic character makes me feel as though I am a close friend. "Thanks for choosing me for and interview," he says modestly.

The 21 year-old, originally from Mossel Bay, is currently studying sound engineering at Damelin College, Cape Town. He lives in a house with two of his best friends. Asked to describe his background, Gwe says he comes from an area that "is not quite a township, but is almost like a suburb where most of the houses look the same". "I lived with my mom, who is a deputy principal, and my older brother: My parents got divorced when I was young and I don't see my dad. To be honest, I don't think he cares." Gwe shrugs his shoulders, but pondering his father's attitude doesn't seem to get the young man down. "I am someone who learns to accept things. I would say that I am quite easy-going, forgiving and patient. But, when I am taken a taken advantage of too much, I do get stubborn."

Gwe still seems to be overwhelmed by the whole Idols phenomenon: I entered Idols to see how far I would come and to see what I could learn about performing skills. I try to learn form every situation. But I have never got this far in anything and it feels like such and achievement."
Gwe has been described as the contestant with the most crossover appeal. Black, white, young, old .... it really doesn't matter who you are. Gwe's outgoing personality and song choice will apeal to you. "I'm free with everyone. Some people feel more comfortable with their own race but, for me, whoever you are I will treat you the same. I am even trying to improve my Afrikaans so I can interact there too. I trained myself to be that way."

Gwe's aim is to provide as much entertainment and an example of what he calls "positive living" to South African audiences. "A lot of people are negative, I know. In the past I have said many times to myself that I can't do this and I'm not good enough. Now I tell myself to be optimistic and to work hard. Being negative hinders you and you just have to tell yourself you can do it."

One of the most phenomenal stage performers seen in three seasons of Idols, Gwe says he gets a thrill out of being on stage: "I just love the interaction between the fans and me. I feel, like, in that moment you are able to share a part of yourself with others." But that enthusiasm for the stage slipped a bit last Sunday when Gwe was rated last among the top five left after Nhlanhla Mwelase was eliminated. "I got nervous during the results show," Gwe says. "My first performance didn't help me, and it made me feel, well" ... he scrunches his hand up and places it over his heart ... "I was supposed to jive with the mike, but it didn't happen. But you know why people didn't vote for me?" he says out loud, now looking at one of the cameramen. "This man made my arms look to skinny! These arms, " he looks at his slim frame,"put people off."
He laughs. "But seriously, I think everybody took it for granted that I would be in the top three and they voted to keep someone else in."

In every show, Gwe has girls fawning over him, but the Idols star only has eyes for his 18-year old girlfriend who is waiting for him in Cape Town. "She phones me a lot, but right now she is writing exams. I know whe isn't jealous of all the attention I am getting because she phones me and says she stands in front of the TV and tells everyone: 'That's my man'. There are these girls who come to the parties on Wednesday nights and they keep on asking me when I am going to give them my number. "I just say I don't give my number out, because I have someone. I am not interested."

So where to next?
"I am going to write my exams and I will be recording a CD. After that it will be wherever the business leads me." Gift's elder brother Thembela told us from the family home that "I and my mom are very much excited that he has made it to the top four. We are sou proud of him.
He is a person who has always loved music. This is his career and his life is music. When he got to the top 24, he phoned me and said he wasn't sure if he would make it, but I told him that the only other person who was his competitor was Nhlanhla Mwelase. Now he is gone. Gift is flexible. He has tyle and a great voice. But mostly people love him for who he is. I think that now it is between him and Karin [Kortje]. He must put in the effort and do what is necessary. For me he has already made it and I think he is the only one who has everything that is wanted in a pop idol."

2005-11-19T10:29:00.000+02:00

4 Favourite Films
1. Bad Boys I
2. Meet The Fockers
3. Ice Age
4. Man on Fire

4 Desert Island Tracks
1. ''Dreams'', Boyz II Men
2. ''Let’s Stay Together'', Boyz II Men
3. ''Don’t Change'', Musiq Soulchild
4. ''Love Poem'', Bilal

4 Things You Always Carry With You
1. Cell phone
2. Lip balm
3. Watch
4. Wallet

4 People You’d Take to the Moon
1. My girlfriend
2. My mother
3. My brother
3. My friend Tyler

4 Top Destinations
1. London
2. Australia
3. Hollywood
4. China

4 Favourite Foods
1. Steak `n Kidney Pie
2. Macaroni `n cheese
3. Bacon `n eggs
4. Pap `n steak

4 Things You’d Do The Day After Winning Idols
1. I’m religious so giving all glory to God would be the first thing I’d do
2. I’d celebrate with my family in Mossel Bay
3. I’d go on a nice picnic with my girlfriend
4. I’d have a braai and spend time with my friends in Cape Town

Where you can see Gift

2005-11-18T10:12:00.000+02:00

November:
18 Nov (afternoon)- Teljoy Branch at Southgate. Sign autographs
18 Nov (evening) - Performing at the Style Awards at the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton.
20 Nov (afternoon) - Dress Rehearsal . Gold Reef City, Johannesburg.
23 Nov (evening) - Back O' The Moon, Gold Reef Casino, Johannesburg

December:
28 Dec – Hermanus Gift and Karin; Prime Circle, Wonderboom and Fevertree

A picture speaks 1000 words

2005-11-18T10:03:00.000+02:00

Photo credit: Julie v Niekerk (http://idolsiii.blogspot.com)

Collin looking sexy on stage

2005-11-18T09:59:00.000+02:00

Photo Credit: Julie van Niekerk (http://idolsiii.blogspot.com)

The Fantastic Four

2005-11-18T09:54:00.000+02:00

Photo credit: Julie v Niekerk (http://idolsiii.blogspot.com)

Update on the Forums

2005-11-18T09:37:00.000+02:00

If you visit the official Idols Forums http://www.mnet.co.za/forums you will find some interesting content on it. (That is if you ignore the fighting among the Fans). Here are two interesting posts for you:

Judges vote 49%
Post By: josh
Posted On: 2005/11/18 08:44:05 AM
So now we know, Carl Fisher has just said in an interview that judges have 49% of the vote, even in the final.

Support for IDOLS
Post By: Margaux
Posted On: 2005/11/18 08:40:59 AM
On our way to work this morning we took the William Nicol onramp to the highway and there were a group of ladies with boards of their favourite IDOLS trying to convince motorists to vote! I think that this is FANTASTIC! WELL DONE GUYS! To be able to show your support like that is amazing. Moments like that make me proud to be a South African. Thank you for that.

If these comment are true then I think we need some Gift fans on the highways encouraging people to vote for him. The judges having 49% vote can go a few ways.
1)Either Mara and Gareth's support will help Gift.
2) All the judges will vote for Karin
3) more people will vote for V because they know the judges don't support her.

What should Gift focus on now?
	Getting his own record deal
	Wait till Dave Thompson gives him a record deal
	Making it internationally
	Touring South Africa
	Writing new Songs and performing them at gigs
	Teaming up with other Musicians

Free polls from Pollhost.com

How Superstitious are you?
	On Friday the 13th I stay at home, in bed
	I don't believe in Friday the 13th bad luck (touch wood)
	I carry a pinch of salt with me at all times
	I avoid black cats and ladders by isolating myself on an island.
	Supersititous people should be locked up- there aint such a thing

All I want for Christmas ....
	A Gift Voucher
	A Gift CD
	Gift Wrap
	Any Gift
	Gift Gwe
	the Gift of giving to the less fortunate

Free polls from Pollhost.com

Do you like the Gift photo in the Header of this Blog?
	Yes - leave it as it is
	Yes- but ad another photo
	No-Change it for another photo
	No-Use a new photo every month
	No-Have no photo's

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Apart from Gift fans who's votes will pull him through?
	The Judges vote
	Nicky and V's Fans
	Ayanda and Nhlanhla Fans
	The Pink Vote

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Which 2 songs should Gift sing in the finals?
	"Stuck on you"
	"Don't let the sun go down on me"
	"End of the Road"
	"Faith"
	"Give me the night"
	"I swear"
	"Love is all around"
	"Senoriata"

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