The Queen’s much-anticipated 92nd birthday bash promises music for all tastes and ages, with the exciting news that rising star Donel Mangena of Team Will.i.am has been personally invited to the celebration by no less than Prince Harry. The 16-year-old sensation from The Voice is believed to have received a request in the form of a letter from The Queen’s grandson recently, as his popularity soars with the general British public.
Favourite for ‘The Voice’ final
Donel may be favourite with many viewers of the ITV talent show to be crowned as the next winner, but he can also hardly contain his excitement at the chance to perform in front of royalty on April 21.
Clearly delighted at attracting the eye of such esteemed viewers, he reflected that “it’s pretty cool that the royals are watching.”
Birthday bash line-up
The Royal Albert Hall concert is sure to be one of the major events in the festivities, especially given the star-studded line-up of acts already expected to feature. Sir Tom Jones, Kylie Minogue and Sting will be joined by the combined talents of Craig David, Shaggy and Shawn Mendes to provide a truly cosmopolitan feel to proceedings.
Confident semi-final performance
Aspiring singer Mangena, who comes from Southampton, breezed through the semi-finals at the weekend as he wowed the audience with his confident rendition of the Pharrell Williams’ smash Happy.
Coach impressed
Voice coach will.i.am was so impressed by the performance that he was moved to stand on his chair at the end of the song.
Explaining his action, the founding member of the hip-hop band The Black Eyed Peas enthused; “because you took the competition to a higher level, I have to now reach that higher level.”
Teenager Mangena will be hoping to emulate his singing idols in time, including chart stars Chris Brown, Usher and the late Michael Jackson.
Reflecting on his success recently via his Twitter account, he said “Thank you all for voting! Love you all and I thank God mostly.”
One more hurdle to clear
Before he can look forward to what he hopes will be a fantastic musical career, Mangena has the small matter of the April 7 final to navigate. With only one of the four finalists able to claim the mammoth £100,000 winning prize and a record deal with Republic Records, their fates will be in the hands of the viewing public. The other three finalists vying for the crown are Lauren Bannon, operatic duo Belle Voci and Ruti Olajugbagbe.
