Lira dedicating Zulu love song to Obamas

Johannesburg - South African singing sensation Lira says she will dedicate a Zulu love song to US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle when she performs at Monday's inaugural ball in Washigton.

Lira says she is blown away by the invitation. She said in an interview with talk show host Redi Tlhabi her career has "gone way beyond my wildest dreams ... I'm extremely excited, it blows my mind".

She says her own composition, called Ngiyazifela, will pay tribute to the love the Obamas share.

"I think Michelle and Obama are such an inspiring couple, I just want to pay a tribute to that."

Ngiyazifela is Zulu slang for being madly in love.

Meanwhile, City Press has revealed what the dress looks like with which Lira'll wow the US president and woo the international crowd at his inaugural ball.

The dress, an off-shoulder, body-hugging sequined cheetah print by David Tlale, weighs a whopping 8kg.

There are elements of Chantilly lace, Swarovski crystals and a feather to create some drama. One arm is embellished with strands of beads and chains blended with gun metal.

“I’m very excited. I think we managed to capture the African royalty look. I look undeniably African,” said the star.