Alexandra Burke is set to play Chaka Khan in a new West End stage ¬production

Alexandra told The Sun newspaper: "Almost 17 years ago, with my late mother by my side, I sang Chaka for my very first non-televised audition for The X Factor.

"To think I would be given the opportunity to play Chaka Khan in the West End would have been unimaginable back then.

"Thank you, Mama, for your love and guidance. I'll be looking up at you at every show. This is a dream role for me. I'm still pinching myself.

"We love I'm Every Woman, Ain't Nobody and I Feel For You, but I encourage you to dive deep into her incredible solo catalogue and tracks with RUFUS - it's timeless, just like the legend herself."

Alexandra previously admitted that motherhood had enhanced her music and acting ambitions.

The singer - who has a three-year-old and a two-year-old whose names have not been publicly revealed - told OK! magazine: "Being a mum has made me want to work harder.

"There's so much more I'd love to do - especially in acting. I've got the bug for it now."

Alexandra's music career has taken a back seat in recent years due to her pregnancies. However, the singer insisted that she remains ambitious.

She said: "Music is still at the forefront of my mind. And I would love to be a part of a production of The Princess And The Frog one day - I'd love to play Princess Tiana, the first ever Black Disney princess."

The Bad Boys hitmaker observed that parenting can be so "rewarding" - even though it's also "chaos" at times.

The former X Factor star said of her family life: "It's chaos at times, but you need to embrace the chaos. There are ups and downs and daily challenges, but it's so rewarding."