Jessie Yallup speaks on her Idols ambition
Speaking to The Ridge’s Garth Johnstone, an elated Jessie commented on her Idols success: “The support I’ve received has been absolutely phenomenal and I’m extremely excited for this next stage of the competition.”
There’s no hint of arrogance about this Umhlanga singer who’s gone all the way to the top 100: “At this point, I’m just really grateful that things have worked out as they have for me and I’m making a point of keeping conscious of how lucky I am to be given this experience and to have the encouragement I’m receiving.
“An artist is generally his or her own worst enemy – the mind can distract and mislead you if you take it too seriously. I’ve got to stay focused on the music, take the right advice, keep my voice fit and just have fun – because whatever I’m experiencing will come through in my performances.”
Jessie says she’s been hard at work preparing for the next gruelling step of Idols: “I’ve been spending my days extending my repertoire and rehearsing songs, writing – and promoting myself on social networks. I’ve also been listening to the radio more than usual for song choice ideas and an understanding of what songs are currently well received by the general public. My music taste is more alternative and eclectic, so I’ve had to do my homework”
She’s pretty philosophical about her chances, while remaining upbeat: “How far will I go? My method is ‘one step at a time’. My mind is not set on the prizes and the glory – but rather on how much I can absorb from the experience.
“Each step needs to be treated with delicacy and tenacity as I believe that a performer is only as good as her last performance and in a competition like this you can’t rest on your laurels.”
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Regarding the controversy surrounding her joint audition with Georgie Mabbett, Jessica told The Ridge Online: “It was a very tough situation (with Georgie) and I felt very sore for her. I always go in to situations with a positive attitude but expecting the worst, because this way you can never be let down – I’ve left auditions before myself feeling sore, but it doesn’t matter. There are so many doors to open.”
Commenting on Georgie’s future, once the dust has settled, Jessica said, “Georgie has a great future ahead of her if she keeps her feet on the ground. She’s actually had far more exposure than any of us, and she’s a great performer.”
Georgie told East Coast Radio that she had moved on from the incident and wouldn’t want a sympathy vote, even if it were offered to her. She has plenty of support online and already has more than 500 fans on her official Group page.
Jessie said she was immensely grateful for all the support she has received. “Thank you to everyone who has showed me support – I can’t say it enough, I really appreciate it. Idols is a wonderful platform for young talent and I’m going to utilise the opportunity as much as I can. I want to be the best I can be.
“My lucky number is 23 and I turn 23 this year. I hope to make Durban proud.”
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