Lira feels good

South African singer Lerato ‘Lira’ Molapo who headlined the show South Meets East Africa Jazz Festival in Nairobi found time to speak to Stevens Muendo

Donning a long reddesigner dress, matching high heels and African accessories, the sultry Lerato ‘Lira’ Molapo epitomises elegance as she walks by the swimming pool. The 30-year-old diva was wearing a smile that radiated confidence. Indeed, if Lira wasn’t into music, she could have been a hit on the catwalk. Her natural beauty stood out as she finally settled down. "Hello guys, sorry to keep you waiting."

The mega selling singer known for eclectic sounds comprising elements of Afro-pop, R&B and jazz is among the fastest rising continental stars. And she knows it and that’s why she describes

herself as a dreamer!

Barely five years after she ditched Gallo Records. Lira was signed up with Sony/BMG. She has now released three albums. Her second album Feel Good has won several awards. Lira has toured around the world.

"It hasn’t been all rosy," she says.

"Gallo (Records) didn’t seem to understand or see where I was going. Every one has this picture of who you should be and I think that was the main dispute. I felt like I was being confined in a box. I wanted to explore my potential. It’s important to find space that enhances who you are."

That was the end of her three year debacle, her frustrating debut which she recalls with memories of pain and bitterness.

"I wanted a completely new look. I cut my dreadlocks and designed my own fashion. I got rid of all that make up, then took a music break. I wanted to recreate myself," she says.

"When I was growing up, it wasn’t hip to be African. Now being black is so cool," she explains.

"I love playing with my dress. I love life. Kenya is a beautiful place away from home."

Her decisions have paid dividends. "My debut album All My Love (2003) which included runway single Crush and became a big hit was purely experimental. At the time, I was feeling frustrated, boxed in this R&B. I went ahead, trying all genres I could sing. But Feel Good (released in 2006) comes with a major transformation of who I am. It explains my music journey," she adds.

The Sony/BMG Feel Good release, tends to lean towards light contemporary rock on tracks like the re-mixed fashion of Crush. Singles such as Change the World, All My Luv, Wa Mpahela, Ngiyabonga are spun in smooth R&B, Afro-jazz and the Ixesha touch that give Lira a wider choice of audience to address.

"Soul in Mind is my third and latest album. It is my best work to date," she remarks.

And with such music legends such as the late Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela and Yvonne Chaka Chaka having put South African music on the world map, Lira knows only too well the challenges she is facing as the country’s musical ambassador.

"We always take lessons from those who came before us. Having a bit of education is always a plus for me. I have a vision," she says.

After winning various music competitions for young singers and songwriters, Lira started performing live at the age of 16. She was singing both cover versions and self-penned songs.

And she recalls: "Back then, we used to be like 15 children living in my grandmother’s house. We were not among the well to do people but it did not matter at all. I later came to learn that my grandmother had been inviting children from poor families to come and live with us. She left a good legacy. I want to do the same," she concludes.