Ayra Starr: Biography, Discography, and Awards

Full Name: Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe
Stage Name: Ayra Starr
Date of Birth: 14 June 2002
Origin: Kwara, Nigeria
Genres: Afrobeats, R&B, Alté, Afro-pop
Label: Mavin Records
Website: ayrastarr.com

Early Life of Ayra Starr

Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr, was born on 14 June 2002 in Cotonou, Benin. She spent her formative years between Benin and Lagos, Nigeria, reflecting her Nigerian heritage and Yoruba ethnicity. Her family’s frequent relocations during her high school years, driven by her father’s business, made it challenging for her to form close friendships. However, her upbringing in a musically inclined household deeply influenced her love for music. By the age of 10, Ayra Starr was singing in a high school choir and writing songs with her brother, Dami.

Ayra Starr attended Les Cours Sonou University, earning a BA in International Relations and Political Science. Despite facing bullying during her college years due to her age and appearance, music became her refuge. Inspired by artists like Nicki Minaj, Ayra Starr turned to music to channel her emotions and build her confidence. Her mother played a pivotal role in encouraging her to pursue her musical aspirations.

Career Milestones of Ayra Starr

2018–2020: Early Beginnings of Ayra Starr’s Music Journey

In August 2018, Ayra Starr joined Lagos-based Quove Models and modeled for brands like Mazelle Studio, Complete Fashion Magazine, and Esperanza Woman. She began sharing song covers of artists like Andra Day and 2Face Idibia on social media in 2019, showcasing her vocal prowess. Her original song “Damage,” uploaded to Instagram, caught the attention of Mavin Records’ executive Don Jazzy, leading to her signing with the label in 2020.

2021–2023: Breakthrough Success of Ayra Starr

In January 2021, Ayra Starr released her self-titled debut EP, blending Afropop and R&B. The EP’s lead single, “Away,” became a hit, peaking at number four on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 50 and number 17 on Billboard’s Top Triller Global chart. This success paved the way for her debut studio album, 19 & Dangerous, released in August 2021. The album included hits like “Bloody Samaritan,” which became the first solo song by a female Nigerian artist to top the TurnTable Top 50 chart.

Ayra Starr’s meteoric rise continued with her 2022 single “Rush,” which earned her a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance. She also featured on Wizkid’s “2 Sugar,” and her music gained international recognition, including a feature in the soundtrack of Creed III. In 2023, she embarked on her first world tour, “21: The World Tour,” performing across Africa, Europe, North America, and Australia.

2024–Present: The Year I Turned 21

In 2024, Ayra Starr released her sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21. The album marked her artistic evolution, exploring themes of self-discovery, love, grief, and empowerment. Featuring collaborations with artists like Seyi Vibez, Coco Jones, Giveon, and Anitta, the album debuted at No. 1 on the Nigerian Albums Chart and No. 195 on the Billboard 200. Critics praised its genre-fluid approach and introspective storytelling.

Singles like “Rhythm & Blues,” “Commas,” and “Santa” generated anticipation for the album’s release, with “Santa” becoming a viral hit. Ayra Starr also collaborated with Coldplay on “Good Feelings” and supported the band during their Music of the Spheres World Tour in Australia and New Zealand.

Musical Style

Ayra Starr’s music primarily spans Afrobeats and R&B, with influences from neo-soul, highlife, and amapiano. Her lyrics, often in English, Nigerian Pidgin, and Yoruba, tackle themes of love, empowerment, and freedom. Critics have lauded her dynamic vocal range and emotional delivery, describing her voice as “silky,” “arresting,” and “soulful.”

She draws inspiration from artists such as Shakira, Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Angelique Kidjo. Lyrically, she admires Aṣa for her poetic storytelling. Ayra Starr’s ability to blend African rhythms with global sounds has made her a standout in the contemporary music scene.