In a three-minute performance, X Factor UK contestant Gamu Nhengu grabs Simon Cowell’s heart and breathes new life into a song written before she was born.”
Nhengu is 18 years old, and when questioned why she decided to become a singer, she says she wants to be someone and do something that people will remember. She talks confidently and persuasively, and she does not look anxious in front of the four judges.
The song, ‘Walking on Sunshine’, was chosen by Nhengu. It’s by Katrina and the Waves, a 1980s new wave band. While Katrina and the Waves are not a one-hit wonder, they are most known for a song released in 1985. “Walking on Sunshine” is a staple of 1980s and nostalgia films.
In her introduction, Nhengu informs the judges that she has made some changes to her song. She doesn’t say what she altered, whether it was a lyrical adjustment or a new arrangement, so the audience and judges are naturally curious. Nhengu does not disappoint once she moves beyond the introductions and starts singing.
Unlike the other three judges, Simon Cowell looks to have missed breakfast and has a rumbly stomach. “I’m excited to see what you’ve done with this song,” Simon responds to Nhengu’s allegation that she modified her music.
While Simon maintains his sad expression throughout the song, the audience immediately notices Nhengu’s vivacity and wit. Her changes were minor, but they impacted the entire meaning of the song. Whereas the chorus of the original song starts, “You’re my sunshine/and don’t it feel fantastic,” Nhengu’s rendition begins, “You’re my sunshine/but you must leave.”
This hints at the song’s subject matter: a breakup. Nhengu tells her that she does not want to waste her life waiting for her dating partner. It’s a commanding performance that matches Nhengu’s personality well, from her body language to her acerbic delivery to her outfit. Nhengu is decked up in a floor-length gown with a massive rose bow in her hair.
The other judges had nothing but admiration for Nhengu. Louis Walsh almost gushes over the young performer, saying she has “something incredibly nice” about her and praising her attitude, song choices, and vibrancy. Walsh says that Nhengu has “soul,” and anyone who watches would agree with that description.
Simon, on the other hand, seemed dissatisfied. “I’m leaving, to be honest with you,” Simon says. The house music shifts and the room becomes quiet. “You sang one of my worst songs ever.” Simon then takes a break. The world seems to come to a halt until Simon responds, “You did something new with it—I like you.”
Simon continues to commend Nhengu on her jazzy approach, and she looks to breathe for the first time in many minutes. After she tells the judges about her mother through tears, all four judges vote yes. Simon even shouts “a million percent yes” as Nhengu’s girlfriend walks out onto the platform to greet her ecstatic daughter. Changing things around is sometimes the greatest way to show how awesome you are. ”