On Wednesday (3rd June), Jozi Gist was invited to an exclusive preview of a new reality television show called Dream Chaser USA – a seven part series about multi-platinum award-winning South African singer, Lira’s “rise again”- this time in the United States.
In a brightly lit recording studio situated in Randburg, Johannesburg, the iconic soul stress casually lounged next to her husband and manager, Robin Kohl.Despite being stuck in a room filled with curious journalist’s, the superstar appeared relaxed and unassuming.Members of her band mingled with reporters as champagne and other refreshments were served.
A little after 7p.m, the first episode of the reality series was presented. At the outset of the Dream chaser, Lira’s determination to broaden her musical horizon shines through. This decision to introduce her brand to North America no doubt carried a degree of risk in America’s musical landscape, where South African music is not embraced enough to make a statement.”I think the world is ready for Africa one way or the other,” said Robin Kohl.
His confident comment was backed up by the scenes in the first episode of the series. It was interesting to pick up the fact that Lira and her team felt no pressure to add some kind of commercial element to appeal to her new American audience.
Unlike most reality show, her team felt no pressure to impress the African public by creating a fabricated world.”We did not want to exaggerate anything. It was organic. I was just allowed to be myself,” Lira revealed.
The Dream Chaser sees Lira share with her audience feelings that they can all relate to. She fearlessly shares her insecurities in the series. “More people want to hear a real story, People are hungry for authenticity. My tour was nothing glamorous; It was scaled down. It was just about the music and the life of the artist,” said Lira.
The new series mirrors the realness that keeps propelling her towards iconic status.