Lira (singer) Biography: Husband, Age, Net Worth, Albums, Height, Parents, Songs, Stroke Recovery

Lerato Moipone Molapo, known professionally as Lira, is an acclaimed South African singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, author, and speaker. Renowned for her soulful blend of Afro-soul, jazz, and R&B, she has captivated audiences with multi-platinum albums like Feel Good and Soul in Mind.

Born on March 14, 1979, in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, Lira has earned 11 South African Music Awards and made history as the first African with a Barbie doll in her likeness. Despite a 2022 stroke, her resilience shines through her triumphant 2024 return to the stage.

Profile

• Full Name: Lerato Moipone Molapo
• Stage Name: Lira
• Born: March 14, 1979
• Age: 46 years old
• Birthplace: Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, South Africa
• Nationality: South African
• Occupation: South African Singer, Songwriter, Entrepreneur, Author, and Speaker
• Height: 5’7
• Parents: Khanyapa Molapo and Buyi Radebe Lichaba
• Siblings: Seven
• Spouse: Robin Kohl (m. 2009, sep. 2019)
• Children: None
• Relationship: Single
• Net Worth: $1.5 million

Early Life and Education

Lerato Moipone Molapo, a celebrated singer and songwriter, was born on March 14, 1979, in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, South Africa. Growing up in a nurturing home with her parents, Khanyapa Molapo and Buyi Radebe Lichaba, and seven siblings, Lira discovered her love for music early on.

Influenced by icons like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin, she began performing at 16 after winning a young singers and songwriters competition. While details of her formal education remain private, her early musical experiences laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

Her ethnicity is South African, and her faith is Christianity.

Career

Lira, a distinguished singer and songwriter, rose to prominence after being discovered by producer Arthur Mafokate in 2000, signing with 999 Music. Her debut album, All My Love (2003), featured a chart-topping title track that outshone Beyoncé’s “Dangerously in Love” in South Africa.

Joining Sony Music Africa in 2006, she released Feel Good, with its hit single dominating airwaves. Albums like Soul in Mind (2008) and Return to Love (2011) achieved multi-platinum status, cementing her as a leading voice in Afro-soul.

Her 2014 album Rise Again introduced her to U.S. audiences through Shanachie Records, while Born Free (2016) earned gold certification. Lira’s versatility extends to acting in The Italian Consul (2011), coaching on The Voice South Africa, and performing at global events like Nelson Mandela’s 92nd birthday and the 2010 FIFA World Cup Kick-Off Concert.

In 2016, she became the first African to partner with Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. After a stroke in 2022 impacted her speech, Lira made a remarkable comeback at Bassline Fest in 2024, showcasing her enduring talent.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @miss_lira
• Facebook Handle: Lira
• Twitter Handle: @MISS_LIRA

Personal Life

Lira, an esteemed singer and songwriter, was raised in Daveyton, South Africa. She married music manager Robin Kohl on September 9, 2009, in an intimate Mauritius ceremony with 15 family members.

Dating since 2004, they collaborated professionally until their separation in July 2019, remaining amicable. Lira has no children and is currently single, dedicating herself to her recovery and career.

In April 2022, she suffered a stroke in Frankfurt, Germany, resulting in aphasia, though her singing ability remained unaffected. Her ongoing recovery reflects her strength, and she connects with fans through social media, sharing insights into her creative pursuits, including crafts inspired by her healing journey.

Filmography

• The Italian Consul (2011) – Supporting Lead
• Dream Chaser (Documentary Series, 4 seasons)

Discography

• All My Love (2003)
• Feel Good (2006)
• Soul in Mind (2008)
• Return to Love (2011)
• Rise Again (2014)
• Born Free (2016)
• Live in Concert: A Celebration (DVD, 2009) – 3x Platinum
• Additional live DVDs (3 others, unspecified titles)

Net Worth

Lira, a prominent singer and songwriter, has an estimated net worth of $1.5 million. Her income derives from her thriving music career, with multi-platinum album sales, sold-out performances, and endorsements from brands like Audi, Samsung, MTN, BlackBerry, and Bobbi Brown Cosmetics.