Lira's year of resilience: a melodic journey from stroke to spotlight

South African singer Lira left the audience visibly emotional at this year’s Cape Town International Jazz Festival, delivering a powerful performance that reminded everyone of her strength.

Watching her perform after everything she’s been through, especially as someone in the crowd, was a moment that felt both intimate and unforgettable.

In April 2022, Lira suffered a stroke while in Germany, which affected her speech and left her unable to communicate properly. It was a scary and uncertain time, and she stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her recovery. Her family later confirmed she was in good spirits but had lost her ability to speak.

Yet somehow, even in the middle of her struggle to form words, singing came naturally to her. That part of her spirit, it seems, remained untouched. While she’s still working on speaking fluently, music has continued to flow from her almost effortlessly.

Lira recently reflected on social media about how far she’s come. It’s now been a full year since she returned to performing, with her first live show post-stroke taking place on May 12, 2024, during a Mother’s Day celebration at the Nirox Foundation, where she shared the stage with Maleh and the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra.

“The first time I performed in a public space… It’s a year since I’ve been singing post-stroke,” she wrote, sharing photos from that day.

As Lira shared a message at CTIJF that stayed with many: “Slow down in the moment. We rush through life. Missing life as it goes by. I can't do that anymore. I'm staying in the moment!”

And with grace, she added, “The stroke was a blessing to me. I learnt to love life joyfully and appreciate what life has to offer.”

Lira’s voice, quite literally, has become her way back.

Fans are proud of Lira and are grateful for her recovery.

@thobeka_fitnessmom commented, "Whenever I listen to the heart of a child, it takes me back to your journey. We thank God for your music and your recovery, sis . We love you ❤️."

@pelemkha commented, "Amazing, my Queen, you’re an inspiration !! 😍❤️🔥."

@maleh_music also wrote, "God's Faithfulness😍❤️❤️You are exceptional ... it was epic. What an Honour!!"