The adoration and pure joy that emanated from the crowd was proof of the popularity of South African Music Award winner, Lira.
Lerato Molapo, better known by her stage name of Lira, has won six SAMA awards since her career took off 10 years ago.
Considering that she currently has the largest fan base on social media of all South African musicians, one could think she has become complacent. Far from it! Patiently dedicating herself to an one-hour signing session after a dynamic two-hour show at Blackrock Casino last Saturday night, she was easy-going and patient.
She has made a name for herself, nationally and internationally, and performed alongside international stars, Shakira, K’Naan, John Legend and Alicia Keys during the official opening of the FIFA World Cup in 2010.
Asked why she chose to perform at a small venue in Newcastle when the world was her oyster, she replied: “The energy of playing a show like this is raw and pure. You have such a connection with the audience it is unbelievable.”
It was clear she believed this as she tolerated fans clutching and kissing her outstretched hand during her performance.
“It can be scary at times, but I know my fans would never hurt me. They trust me to give them amazing music, and I trust them to respect me.”
For the past ten years, Lira has been sharing her talent with adoring fans. With her current Her Story tour, it is evident her music comes straight from the heart.
Drawing inspiration from South African life and global influences, she writes and conveys her songs with raw emotion.
She started delving into the world of music after noticing how it affected her life.
“Listening to music, and noticing how it affected people when I was younger, was the drive that pushed me into music. I wanted to be able to help and affect the world through music.”
Lira wants to tap into the global market and release her albums internationally, wishing to be regarded as ‘a global African’.
“The general perception of Africa globally is that it is undeveloped. I hope as an artist from Africa to change this perception; this is the legacy I want to leave behind.”
Lira has her legacy to build on, and her advice to young aspiring artists is inspirational.
“You need a vision to work towards. Ask yourself how people will remember you. What legacy do you want to leave behind? Work towards fulfilling these goals. This is what I did. There is no recipe for success in this industry. You have to make yourself stand out by showing the world just how unique you are.”
The young artist promised to return to Newcastle.
“I had an excellent time performing in Newcastle. Thank you Tsogo Sun for putting this tour together, and I hope that one day I’ll come back to perform again, because the crowd was just amazing.”
