Lira Essentials

Rolling through love, hope, sorrow and kinship, Afro-soul singer Lerato “Lira” Molapo, releases chart-shattering albums that stand up next to R&B pop mavens such as Alicia Keys and Rihanna. Her follow-up to 2003's compelling “All My Love” with the SAMA-winning song “Feel Good” and 2011's “Rise Again” all satisfy the craving for an honest contemporary fusion of all the rudiments of funk, soul and jazz. It's no wonder her name in Sesotho means “love”—that's what the nation have showered her with, as she returns the admiration with the infinite gifts of soulful music.