Exclusive Pics: Alexandra Burke Rehearses For US Debut With Beyonce’s Choreographer

And it begins!

Alexandra Burke makes her eagerly awaited American debut tonight in New York City.

The Platinum-selling stage blazer will join Mary J Blige,  Erykah Badu, Mary Mary, and Patti LaBelle at a commemorative concert, christened the Apollo Spring Gala, to honor Chaka Khan‘s 40-years in the music industry.

A perfectionist of a performer, Burke has called on Beyonce’s right-hand man Jaquel Knight to help piece together what we’re hearing will be a must-see showing.

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It goes without saying that the high-profile slot is the best of launches for the 24-year-old who is  -as many had hoped – embracing a more soulful sound for her 3rd studio album (which will dub as her US debut).  The X Factor graduate recently relocated to the States after signing a mega-management deal with industry force Kevin Liles – the former Def Jam executive who propelled the careers of Jay-Z and Kanye West into the stratosphere. More recent years have seen Liles mould Trey Songz into the Urban force he is today. Needless to say, it seems he and his team are working their magic with our girl.

Peep more EXCLUSIVE rehearsal pics after the jump — AND — be sure to keep it locked on That Grape Juice for more on Alexandra Burke’s US debut!