A teenager posted cover songs online. One day, Don Jazzy, the founder of Mavin Records, sent her a message. Within a few years, she had an international hit and a Grammy nomination.
That is the story of Ayra Starr.
Between two countries
Ayra Starr was born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe on 14 June 2002 in Benin and raised between Cotonou and Lagos. She studied international relations and political science at a university in Cotonou.
Growing up between French-speaking Benin and English-speaking Nigeria shaped her outlook, and she has spoken about both places as home.
Mavin
After seeing her music online, Don Jazzy reached out and invited her to meet. She signed with Mavin Records, the label behind artists such as Rema and Tiwa Savage, and her first professional recording sessions took place at Mavin’s studios.
Early releases
Her debut EP and her first album, 19 & Dangerous, released in 2021, introduced her mix of Afrobeats, R&B and pop, and her confident, youthful lyrics.
“Rush”
In 2022, Ayra Starr released “Rush”, a song about confidence and success in the face of haters. It became an international hit, charting in countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland and Switzerland.
The Grammy nomination
“Rush” earned a nomination at the 66th Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance, in the first year of the category. The award went to Tyla, but the nomination marked Ayra Starr as one of the leading voices of her generation.
Style
Ayra Starr is known for her bold fashion, especially mini skirts and striking outfits, which have become part of her image. She has spoken about ignoring criticism of her style.
Her second album
Her second album, The Year I Turned 21, released in 2024, featured collaborations with international artists and continued her rise.
Live shows
Ayra Starr has performed at major festivals and on international tours, building a strong live reputation with energetic performances and choreography.
Her name
Her stage name, Ayra Starr, was chosen to sound bold and memorable. Fans across Africa and the diaspora have embraced it, and the name is now printed on festival posters from Lagos to London.
A new generation
Ayra Starr belongs to a generation of African artists who grew up online and built global audiences from the start. Her journey from cover videos to Grammy nominations took only a few years.
