Inspired by Lira

INTERNATIONAL Women in Music Day is observed on March 28 to celebrate the contributions of women in the industry. In a world where women are relentless in trying to take up space, this day serves to acknowledge and appreciate women in the music industry.

The list of women who are taking up space in the music industry is endless, and more talent is discovered every year.

One of those women is Lerato Molapo, also known as Lira. Lira is a South African-born international musician and one of the women whose talent inspires the masses. She is an Afro Soul vocalist who refers to her music as a fusion of soul and funk, with elements of jazz and African.

Also read: Inspiration blossoms at spring tea 

Lira is known for her hits, such as Feel Good, which has been the ‘fave’ on our playlists for 15 years now. In her musical accolades, Lira is a multi-platinum-selling singer and has won 11 South African Music Award (SAMA) trophies.

Lira’s story in music is an inspirational one as the musician has recently made a comeback after suffering a stroke, which led to a speech impediment, in 2021, when she was in Germany for a scheduled show.

She was subsequently diagnosed with aphasia, a language disorder caused by damage in a specific area of the brain that controls language expression and comprehension.

Lira shared her story on different platforms where she said she had drawn inspiration from the event.

Lira told her story on Radio 702, for the first time after the stroke, in an interview with broadcaster Relebogile Mabotja sometime last year. This is where she explained how she was recovering as she was re-learning to speak.

In what was a life-changing event [the stroke], the vocalist said she had drawn inspiration from it. She said she was inspired to slow down and focus on herself.

Also read: Institution helps empower women

“When I was in hospital after being diagnosed, I remember accepting the situation for what it was. That acceptance covered me with so much love, which I have felt throughout my recovery,” she said.

Her road to recovery is the epitome of what she preaches in one of her songs, Let There Be Light. The star sings about being the light by making the right choices.

Do you realise

Nothing can ever be right

Until we choose to make it right

We can be the reason why

We can keep hope alive

We can be the right ones

Also read: Mr SA finalist aims to inspire struggling youth

The right ones for the task

We’d be the missing part

So illuminate your life

Starting with your own smile

You can be the spark

You can start the fire

In essence, we celebrate this musician for not only her vocal chords and her longevity in the industry but also her continuous inspiration seen in her music and her life.

For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.