We’re just three episodes into the epic search for the next big thing in the local music scene with Vodacom NXT LVL, and already the competition is heating up. The show airs every Wednesday at 21.30 on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161).

It was all about image this week as the contestants received makeovers guided by their mentors (Danny K, DJ Zinhle, Euphonik, Riky Rick and Big Nuz) and stylists. For the small challenge, they got a R5 000 voucher and one hour to find the right outfits before having their hair and make-up done for a photoshoot.

Zethe (who squeezed a few hundred Rands extra out of her mentor for the week, Big Nuz, and claimed that this one was “easy for her” since she “loves the camera”) came out tops with her edgy look and confident presentation to a panel that included renowned stylists Gavin Mahlangu and Sandi Mazibuko. “Image is everything,” Sandi told them.

With the parting words: “You guys look amazing, now it’s showtime,” from Danny K, the artists had to book a gig. The mentors judged their performances and interaction with the crowd. Despite winning the small challenge, Zethe scored the lowest, keeping her at the bottom of the leaderboard. Meanwhile, Thami and Jesse upped their game coming first and second in the challenge. Thami is now hot on the heels of Music ’97 who’ve been on a winning streak since week 1.

Here are the standings after Week 3:

The contestants’ frustrations, mentors’ harsh but constructive feedback and, of course, the new looks and NXT LVL performances made an impression on fans who took to social media to share their thoughts. Check in on #vodacomNTXLVL for the latest on Twitter and Facebook.

At this point, it’s still anybody’s game. You don’t want to miss next week’s episode which is themed “The Remix”.  The NXT LVL contestants will be put through their paces by a legend in South African music production: Lindelani Mkhize. See it unfold on Wednesday at 21.30 on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161). Here’s what else you can look forward to: