Ebony, the breakout star of the Star Academy, captivated audiences on Saturday, January 4, 2025, with her performance of "L’Hymne à l’amour," the classic love song made famous by Edith Piaf. This night marked not just another episode but a momentous occasion as Ebony became the first contestant to qualify for the semi-finals this season.
The stage was set for what was sure to be an emotional evening. Following weeks filled with intense competition, shocking eliminations, and unexpected twists, the air buzzed with anticipation. Some 2000 viewers were treated to performances from the remaining contestants, but all eyes were particularly focused on Ebony—an achievement not just because of her remarkable vocal gifts but also because she performed after having sailed through the previous rounds without being nominated for elimination.
To kick off the night, the students performed “Vivre ou survivre” by Daniel Balavoine, setting the tone for what would prove to be a pivotal moment. Clara Luciani, the season's mentor, joined the proceedings to offer words of encouragement: "Il y a un truc que vous avez remporté tous, c'est mon coeur" (“There is one thing you have all won; it’s my heart”).
After the initial battle rounds, it was Ebony's turn to shine. Dressed elegantly in a flowing white gown, she took center stage accompanied by the symphonic orchestra. The moment she opened her mouth to sing, it was as if the world dissolved around her; the exquisite notes of "L’Hymne à l’amour" filled the studio and stirred deep emotions. Eyewitness accounts from the audience reveal her ability to flawlessly convey the song’s poignant message. Emilia, among the competitors set to be eliminated, was seen wiping tears away, as was Clara Luciani, visibly moved by Ebony’s soulful delivery.
Not only did the judges praise Ebony for her heartfelt performance, but host Nikos Aliagas celebrated her talent, stating, "Vous avez marqué des points très très forts" (“You’ve really made some strong points”). It was clear from the reactions, both onstage and among the audience, significantly heightened the tension as they witnessed this stirring performance. Several audience members, including some who had initially been put at risk of elimination, couldn’t help but tear up as they recognized the weight of the moment.
Emotion surged through the studio, reaching its zenith with Ebony’s finale. "C’était un moment vraiment hors du temps" (“It was truly timeless moment”), Ebony reflected, when she spoke on the emotional gravity she felt taking to the stage. Following her performance, she expressed gratitude to the iconic Piaf for penning such an unforgettable song: “Merci à Édith Piaf également d’avoir réalisé une telle chanson" (“Thank you to Edith Piaf for creating such a song”).
Her performance ignited fervent reactions online, transforming the night’s events. Tweets flooded with admiration; one fan exclaimed, "Ebony has so much gold in her vocal cords!" Another praised, "Diva, perfect. Incredible." Social media buzz surrounding her performance underscored not only the thrill of her vocal artistry but also the desire for her future stardom, with sentiments such as, "Elle mérite une immense carrière à la hauteur de son talent” (“She deserves to have a career commensurate with her talent”) echoing throughout the thread.
Even her father, renowned singer Thierry Cham, was brought to tears during her powerful rendition. His emotion mirrored the pride felt by many watching the performance, connecting the audience even more deeply to Ebony’s story. The moment encapsulated the essence of the competition—not just the pursuit of fame, but the power of music to evoke raw, genuine emotions.
This event has positioned Ebony as not only one of the favorites on the show but also as potential rising star within the industry. Having earned her tickets to the semi-finals early on due to multiple accolades, the present atmosphere signals promising prospects for the vocal powerhouse. After several comments noting her unbeatable abilities, many wonder how far this talent might take her.
Looking forward, it remains to be seen whether this unforgettable evening can help propel her to swift success. With her interpretations capturing hearts, Ebony is undoubtedly positioned to leverage her momentous triumph on the stage of Star Academy. Following up on her proud debut of "L’Hymne à l’amour," she remains focused and ready for future challenges, bolstered by the love and support of fans and mentors alike.
Each performance is more than just entertainment for her; it's her calling. The anticipation for her next steps continues to build—will she come out on top as this season's champion? For now, fans can only wait and see what Ebony, with her rich, emotive talent, will bring next!