Some auditions stand out because of a familiar song, while others leave a lasting impression because of the performer’s confidence and personality. When 11-year-old Asanda Jezile appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in 2013, she brought both to the stage with her performance of Rihanna’s hit song “Diamonds.”
Her audition earned four yes votes from the judges and introduced viewers to a young singer with an unmistakable sense of stage presence. Asanda’s journey continued beyond the audition, eventually taking her to the grand final of the competition.
Who Is Asanda Jezile?
Asanda Jezile was an 11-year-old singer when she auditioned for the seventh series of Britain’s Got Talent in 2013. Based in London and of South African family background, she had a clear ambition to perform and a personality that matched her musical aspirations.
Asanda described herself as a little bit of a diva, and that confidence became part of her identity on the show. Her audition demonstrated that she wanted to do more than simply stand still and sing: she was interested in presenting a complete performance.
For a young contestant, appearing on a nationally televised talent competition can be an enormous experience. The stage, audience, cameras, and panel of judges all add pressure. Asanda embraced the opportunity and chose a well-known pop song to showcase her talent.
Taking on Rihanna’s “Diamonds”
Rihanna’s “Diamonds” was a bold choice for an 11-year-old performer. The song is recognizable for its soaring chorus, emotional tone, and memorable melody, giving a singer plenty of opportunity to show vocal ability and personality.
Asanda approached the audition with a strong sense of performance. Alongside her singing, she incorporated movement and expressive gestures, creating a presentation that reflected her confidence and love of pop music.
The judges responded positively to the audition. Alesha Dixon praised Asanda’s performance, while the other judges also gave her encouraging feedback. By the end, she had earned four yes votes, allowing her to continue in the competition.
The result was an important first step. Getting through an audition does not guarantee success in later rounds, but it gives a performer the chance to develop and demonstrate more of their abilities.
Why Her Stage Presence Stood Out
Vocal ability is important in a singing competition, but stage presence can also influence how an audience experiences a performance. A singer needs to connect with the song, communicate its mood, and hold the audience’s attention.
Asanda brought an energetic, theatrical style to “Diamonds.” Her movement and expressions made the audition feel like a performance rather than simply a vocal demonstration.
Simon Cowell commented positively on her stage presence, while Alesha Dixon compared her to a little diamond. Those responses reflected the impression Asanda had made on the panel.
Her approach also matched her stated admiration for pop performers such as Rihanna and Beyoncé. Rather than hiding her enthusiasm, she brought it to the stage and made it part of her audition.
From Audition to the BGT Grand Final
Asanda’s story did not end with four yes votes. She progressed through the competition and reached the grand final of Britain’s Got Talent Series 7 in 2013.
During the semi-finals, she performed Beyoncé’s “Halo,” offering viewers another opportunity to see her develop as a performer. She subsequently appeared in the final, where she sang “If I Were a Boy,” also by Beyoncé.
Reaching the final was a significant achievement for an 11-year-old contestant competing against performers with different talents and levels of experience. Although she did not win the series, her journey showed how far an audition could take a young singer in a major television competition.
For viewers discovering her original “Diamonds” audition today, knowing what followed adds context to that first appearance. It was the beginning of a competition journey that carried her all the way to the final stage.
A Young Performer With Big Ambitions
Asanda’s audition remains memorable for the combination of a recognizable song, an energetic performance style, and the confidence she displayed at a young age.
Talent competitions give performers an opportunity to introduce themselves to a broad audience. They also require contestants to respond to feedback, prepare for different stages, and keep performing under pressure.
Asanda’s progress through BGT illustrated that journey. Her audition gained the judges’ approval, and her later performances gave her additional opportunities to demonstrate her abilities.
Her story is also a reminder that reaching a competition final is an achievement in itself, even when a contestant does not take home the overall prize.
Watch Asanda Jezile Sing “Diamonds”
If you enjoy discovering memorable auditions from Britain’s Got Talent, Asanda Jezile’s performance is worth revisiting. At 11, she took on Rihanna’s “Diamonds,” showed off her stage presence, and earned four yes votes from the judges.
What stands out most to you about Asanda’s performance: her vocals, her stage presence, or her confidence at such a young age? Share your thoughts in the comments.
