By Nangamso Mabindla
14 September 2004

TRAFFIC and businesses in Oxford Street in East London came to a standstill on Monday, 13 September, when hundreds of fans turned up to watch the 2004 Coca Cola Popstars finalists perform outside the City Hall.

Girl group Jamilla and boy group Ghetto Lingo gave the large crowd their all in a show that was aimed at encouraging people to vote for them as this year's Popstars.

The gig kicked off with Jamilla, who kept the crowd on its toes with numbers from their album. Their slow jam "Love me for me" had every female fan yelling for more.

Buhle Matabane, who was part of the crowd, said she was impressed with the group. "I especially loved the slow jam - it's really how many women feel about love. I'm also impressed at how professional and humble these girls are; they didn't take the East London crowd for granted."

The four-member boy group Ghetto Lingo were equally as impressive with brilliant dance moves pop legend Michael Jackson would have been proud off.

Mfundo Tshiza, part of the crowd that was entertained by the performances, said the overall level of professionalism showed that the country's music was moving in the right direction.

"We do have talent in the country; we just need to identify it. With competitions like Popstars, Pop Idols and Project Fame, the country has taken a huge step in its efforts to do this."

The two groups later signed autographs for adoring fans at the McDonald's food store in Vincent.