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Tag: Ayra Starr

  • Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Tems, Adichie shine at 2025 MET Gala

    Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Tems, Adichie shine at 2025 MET Gala

    At the 2025 Met Gala, Nigerian stars made a striking impact, showcasing vibrant African fashion on the red carpet at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.

    The theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” highlighted precision tailoring fused with cultural identity, and Nigeria’s icons delivered unforgettable looks.

    Tems dazzled in a fusion of Aso-Ebi fabric and modern Western tailoring, seamlessly blending her Nigerian roots with global flair.

    Read Also: Burna Boy releases ‘Sweet Love’ ahead eighth studio album 

    Burna Boy embodied refined Afrocentric elegance in a custom Ozwald Boateng design while Ayra Starr radiated bold confidence in a sleek, minimalist gown that captured her “sabi girl” essence.

    Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a host committee member alongside Usher, Tyla, and others, commanded attention in a stunning red gown, cementing her influence in both fashion and culture.

    Their appearances celebrated Nigerian heritage with sophistication and global resonance.

  • Ayra Starr features Wizkid in new single ‘Gimme Dat’

    Ayra Starr features Wizkid in new single ‘Gimme Dat’

    Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has released a brand-new single titled “Gimme Dat,” featuring Grammy award-winning artist Wizkid.

    The highly anticipated track dropped today, April 25, and has already been met with enthusiastic reactions from fans and music lovers.

    This is the second collaboration between the two stars, following their earlier hit “2 Sugar” from Wizkid’s album More Love, Less Ego.

    Read Also: Rema, Ayra Starr: Emerging monarchs of Afrobeats

    Ayra Starr had teased the new song with a snippet on social media, sparking speculation about the mystery collaborator. 

    She later confirmed Wizkid’s feature in a follow-up post, sending fans into a frenzy.

    Since her debut as a teenager, the Mavin Records star has continued to rise in the music scene with a string of hit singles, solidifying her place as one of the leading voices in Afrobeats.

  • FULL LIST: Top 20 most-streamed Nigerian artists globally in Q1 2025

    FULL LIST: Top 20 most-streamed Nigerian artists globally in Q1 2025

    Afrobeats sensation Rema has claimed the top spot in Nigeria’s Q1 2025 rankings, reinforcing his dominance alongside other industry giants such as Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Ayra Starr.

    According to data compiled by Debut Hub, Rema’s global hit ‘Calm Down,’ featuring Selena Gomez, has accumulated an impressive 223 million streams in Q1 2025, contributing to his groundbreaking achievement of over 2.5 billion total streams. 

    Burna Boy follows in second place with 171 million streams, while Ayra Starr ranks third with 169 million streams, ahead of Davido, who earned 113 million streams. Despite Davido’s strong showing, he remains ahead of Wizkid, who secured fifth place with 102 million streams.

    Ayra Starr followed closely in third with 169 million streams, surpassing Davido, who garnered 113 million streams. Despite Davido’s strong performance, it was enough to keep him ahead of Wizkid, who rounded out the top five with 102 million streams.

    Here is a full list of the most-streamed Nigerian artists globally Q1 of 2025:

    1.      Rema — 223M

    2.      Burna Boy — 171M

    3.      Ayra Starr — 169M

    4.      Davido — 113M

    5.      Wizkid — 102M

    6.      Omah Lay — 96.7M

    7.      Kizz Daniel — 67.9M

    8.      Ruger — 65.7M

    9.      CKay — 64.6M

    10.  Asake — 63.4M

    11.  Tems — 60.4M

    Read Also: Rema tops YouTube streams for Nigerian artists in Q1 2025

    12.  Fireboy DML — 59.1M

    13.  Nathaniel Bassey — 52.8M

    14.  Oxlade — 52.4M

    15.  Tekno — 50.8M

    16.  Tiwa Savage — 45.3M

    17.  Mercy Chinwo — 46.4M

    18.  Victony — 42.5M

    19.  Moses Bliss — 41.5M

    20.  BNXN — 41M

  • Rema, Ayra Starr: Emerging monarchs of Afrobeats

    Rema, Ayra Starr: Emerging monarchs of Afrobeats

    The music industry has in recent years experienced a huge rise of popularity among young generations thereby introducing talents that appeal mostly to the Gen Zs and a fair percentage of the millennials.

    Recognisably, the industry has produced two undeniable talents who can be described as the vanguard of the industry’s future: Rema and Ayra Starr. Both signed under the auspices of Jonzing World and Mavin Records respectively, these artists have not only captivated audiences worldwide but have also set new benchmarks in the music industry.

    Rema: The prince who became king of his generation

    Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, rise to fame began on March 22, 2019 when he released his debut self-titled Rema, introducing a fresh sound that resonated with a global audience. His breakout single, “Dumebi,” became an anthem, showcasing his uniqueness and talent.

    Rema’s meteoric rise is underscored by his impressive streaming numbers and accolades. His song ‘Calm Down’ remix featuring American star Selena Gomez has attracted over 2 billion streams on Spotify alone making it the most streamed song by an African on the streaming platform.

    Additionally, Rema’s “Rave & Roses,” album amassed over a billion streams across platforms, solidifying his position as a streaming powerhouse. In 2025, he clinched multiple awards at the Trace Awards, including ‘Best Global African Artiste’ and ‘Song of the Year’ for his hit single “Calm Down.” 

    Notably, the song holds the Guinness World Record for being the first No. 1 song on the MENA chart.

    It achieved the highest peak for a song by a Nigerian artist on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 3.

    It is also the longest-charting song by a Nigerian artist on the Billboard Hot 100, charting for over 52 weeks.

    His live performances have further cemented his status. Notably, Rema’s “Ravage Uprising: Rema Live from the O2, London” was lauded for its electrifying energy, earning him the ‘Best Performer (Live)’ award at the 2025 Headies Awards. 

    Ayra Starr: The celestial voice ascending

    Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr, made her debut in 2021 with her self-titled EP, immediately capturing attention with soulful voice and compelling lyrics. Her single “Away” signaled the arrival of a new star in the Afrobeats constellation.

    Ayra’s trajectory has been nothing short of stellar. Her debut album, “19 & Dangerous,” featured the hit track “Rush,” which not only dominated charts but also earned her a nomination for ‘Best African Music Performance’ at the 2024 Grammy Awards. This milestone made her the youngest African female artist to achieve such a nomination. 

    Read Also: NNPC: Ojulari takes over from Kyari, seeks management, staff support to attain enormous targets

    In 2025, Ayra made history at the MOBO Awards by becoming the first African woman to win ‘Best International Act’ and the first woman in 16 years to secure the ‘Best African Music Act’ award.  Her collaboration with renowned artists, including the 2023 single “Big FU” with David Guetta and Lil Durk, showcased her versatility and global appeal.  

    Mavin Records: The launchpad of legends

    Both Rema and Ayra Starr’s ascents have been significantly bolstered by the strategic support of Mavin Records, helmed by industry maestro Don Jazzy. The label’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing a robust platform has been instrumental in their global breakthroughs. Ayra Starr, in particular, has credited Rema as a source of inspiration, highlighting the collaborative and supportive environment fostered within the Mavin family. 

    The reign continues

    As Rema and Ayra Starr continue to ascend, their influence on the Afrobeats genre and the global music landscape becomes increasingly profound. Their innovative sounds, combined with a deep respect for their roots, position them not as enduring icons poised to shape the future of music.

  • FULL LIST: 15 artistes with global collaborations

    FULL LIST: 15 artistes with global collaborations

    In recent years, Nigerian artists have continued to break boundaries, expanding their influence far beyond Africa. With Afrobeats becoming a dominant force in global music, Nigerian musicians have consistently collaborated with international stars,with their unique sound and genres like hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, and pop. These collaborations not only showcase Nigeria’s rich musical culture but also help bridge the gap between African and Western music markets.

    Here is a list of artistes with global collaborations:

    1. Seyi Vibez & NLE Choppa- “Macho“

    Street-hop sensation Seyi Vibez joined forces with American rapper NLE Choppa on “Macho,” an energetic track that blends Afrobeats with trap elements. The collaboration showcases Seyi Vibez’s signature indigenous sound, seamlessly merging with NLE Choppa’s rapid-fire flows, making it a unique fusion of African and Western rap influences.

    2. Ayra Starr & Giveon – “Last Heartbreak Song”

    Mavin Records star Ayra Starr partnered with American R&B singer Giveon on “Last Heartbreak Song,” a deeply emotional ballad that explores themes of love and loss. The song’s soothing melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, proving Ayra Starr’s ability to navigate both Afrobeats and international R&B effortlessly.

    3. Wizkid & Tiakola – “Après Minuit“

    Superstar Wizkid collaborated with French artist Tiakola on “Après Minuit,” a track that blends Afrobeats with the smooth rhythm of French pop. The song, which translates to “After Midnight,” showcases Wizkid’s laid-back delivery alongside Tiakola’s melodic vocals, creating a cross-cultural hit.

    4. Asake & Travis Scott – “Active“

    Asake, known for his unique blend of Afrobeats and Fuji, teamed up with American rapper Travis Scott on “Active.” The song is a high-energy anthem that combines Asake’s Yoruba-infused cadences with Travis Scott’s signature ad-libs and trap beats, resulting in a global club banger.

    5. Victony & Saint JHN – “Tiny Apartment“

    Singer Victony joined forces with American rapper and singer Saint JHN on “Tiny Apartment,” a thought-provoking track that blends Afrobeats with alternative R&B. Their collaboration delivers an intimate and reflective sound, enhanced by Saint JHN’s unique vocal style.

    6. Wizkid & Brent Faiyaz – “Piece of My Heart“

    Wizkid collaborated with American R&B artist Brent Faiyaz on “Piece of My Heart,” a smooth and soulful track that highlights both artists’ strengths in delivering emotionally rich music. Their chemistry on the song further reinforces Wizkid’s ability to cross over into the global R&B market.

    7. KCee, OneRepublic & Diplo – “Ojapiano Remix“

    Afrobeats veteran KCee revamped his viral hit “Ojapiano” with an international remix featuring American pop band OneRepublic and superstar DJ Diplo. This version maintains the traditional Igbo flute elements while incorporating a more global pop and EDM influence, appealing to a broader audience.

    8. Jeymes Samuel, Doja Cat, Kodak Black & Adekunle Gold – “Jeezu“

    Adekunle Gold joined forces with British musician Jeymes Samuel, American rapper Kodak Black, and global superstar Doja Cat on “Jeezu.” This collaboration seamlessly blends Afrobeats, hip-hop, and R&B, creating a vibrant and eclectic musical experience.

    9. Skepta & Portable – “Tony Montana“

    British-Nigerian rapper Skepta teamed up with Nigerian street-hop sensation Portable for “Tony Montana.” Produced by Jae5, the song fuses grime and Afrobeats, giving Portable’s energetic delivery an international platform while maintaining its raw, street-inspired sound.

    10. Skepta, Idris Elba & Odumodublvck – “Jangrova“

    Skepta enlisted actor and musician Idris Elba, alongside Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck, for “Jangrova.” This track brings together grime, Afro-drill, and hip-hop influences, making it a standout cross-continental collaboration.

    11. Olamide & Sabri – “Hello Habibi Remix“

    Olamide added an international twist to his hit “Hello Habibi” by featuring American rapper Sabri on the remix. The song blends Afrobeats with Arabian musical elements, giving it a fresh, multicultural appeal.

    12. Phyno & ArrDee – “Time of My Life“

    Nigerian rapper Phyno linked up with British rapper ArrDee on “Time of My Life,” an upbeat track that merges Phyno’s Igbo rap style with ArrDee’s fast-paced UK drill flows. This collaboration highlights the growing connection between African and UK rap scenes.

    13. Tems & J. Cole – “Free Fall”

    Grammy-winning singer Tems featured American rapper J. Cole on “Free Fall,” a soulful track from her album Born in the Wild. The song showcases Tems’ ethereal vocals, complemented by J. Cole’s introspective lyricism, making it a standout collaboration of the year.

    14. Nicki Minaj, David Guetta & Davido – “If It’s Okay“

    In a genre-blending masterpiece, American rapper Nicki Minaj, FrenchNigerian Artists and their Global collaborations

    In recent years, Nigerian artists have continued to break boundaries, expanding their influence far beyond Africa. With Afrobeats becoming a dominant force in global music, Nigerian musicians have consistently collaborated with international stars with their unique sound and genres like hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, and pop. These collaborations not only showcase Nigeria’s rich musical culture but also help bridge the gap between African and Western music markets.

    15. Asake & Central Cee – “Wave“

    Asake collaborated with UK rap sensation Central Cee on “Wave,” a song that merges Afrobeats with UK drill influences. The track became a fan favorite, showcasing the seamless synergy between the two artists.

  • Ayra Starr, Mofe Damijo join cast of ‘Children of Blood and Bone’

    Ayra Starr, Mofe Damijo join cast of ‘Children of Blood and Bone’

    The highly anticipated film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel, “Children of Blood and Bone,” has announced additional cast members.

    Ayra Starr, an Afrobeats star, and seasoned actor Richard Mofe-Damijo are among the latest additions to the production.

    The film, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Thuso Mbedu as Zélie, Tosin Cole as Tzain, Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari, and Damson Idris as Prince Inan.

    Read Also: Women are bedrock of Nigeria, says Tinubu on IWD

    Other notable cast members include Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, and Lashana Lynch.

    Set in the mythical kingdom of Orïsha, the story follows Zélie’s journey to restore magic to her people after King Saran’s brutal suppression.

    Filming is scheduled to begin in South Africa, with a planned release in early 2027.

  • FULL LIST: Rema, Ayra Starr, Mercy Chinwo, others win at 2025 Trace Awards

    FULL LIST: Rema, Ayra Starr, Mercy Chinwo, others win at 2025 Trace Awards

    The 2025 Trace Awards ceremony, held at Mora Resort, Zanzibar, Tanzania, on Wednesday, February 26, saw Nigerian artists dominating the winners’ list with top accolades. 

    Rema led the pack, securing two prestigious awards: ‘Album of the Year’ for his critically acclaimed album Heis and ‘Best Male Artist.’ 

    Ayra Starr was named the Best West African Artist, while Mercy Chinwo won the Best Gospel Artist for her inspiring and uplifting music. 

    Afrobeats legend D’banj received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the music industry. 

    Other notable Nigerian winners included P. Prime, who won Best Producer for MMS; Meji Alabi, who claimed Best Music Video for Rema’s DND 

    The Trace Awards celebrate excellence in the music industry, and this year’s event highlighted Africa’s vibrant and growing influence on the global stage. 

    Here is the complete list of nominees and winners:

    Global Awards

    Song of the Year

    Titom & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (South Africa) WINNER

    Tyla – ‘Jump’ (South Africa)

    Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)

    Tamsir x Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)

    Asake & Travis Scott – ‘Active’ (Nigeria)

    Tems – ‘Love Me Jeje’ (Nigeria)

    Burna Boy – ‘Higher’ (Nigeria)

    Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)

    Diamond Platnumz – ‘Komasawa’ (Tanzania)

    Album of the Year

    Rema – Heis (Nigeria) WINNER

    Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)

    Asake – Lungu Boy (Nigeria)

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    Josey – Vibration Universelle (Ivory Coast)

    Amaarae – Fountain Baby (Ghana)

    King Promise – True To Self (Ghana)

    Stonebwoy – 5th Dimension (Ghana

    Toofan – Stamina (Togo)

    Best Collaboration

    Tamsir & Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast) WINNER

    Titom & Yuppe & Burna Boy – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (Remix) (South Africa/Nigeria)

    Neyna & MC Acondize – ‘Nu Ka Sta Para’ (Cape Verde)

    Kocee ft. Patoranking – ‘Credit Alert’ (Cameroon/Nigeria)

    Asake & Wizkid – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)

    Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)

    Odumodublvck & Black Sherif – ‘Woto Woto Seasoning’ (Ghana)

    Best Music Video

    Meji Alabi – Rema ‘DND’ (Nigeria) WINNER

    TG Omori – Kizz Daniel & Davido ‘Twe Twe’ (Nigeria)

    Director Folex – Zuchu feat Innoss’ B ‘Nani’ (Remix) (Tanzania/DRC)

    Nabil Elderkin – Tyla ‘Jump’ (South Africa)

    Kmane – Ayra Starr ‘Commas’ (Nigeria)

    Seoute Emmanuel – Toofan ‘C Pas Normal’ (Togo)

    Ach’B – Innoss’ B ‘Sete’ (DRC)

    Edgar Esteves – Asake & Wizkid ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)

    Best Dancer

    Makhadzi (South Africa) WINNER

    Ikorodu Boys (Nigeria)

    Dancegod Lloyd (Ghana)

    Incredible Zigi (Ghana)

    Kamo Mphela (South Africa)

    Telminho (Angola)

    Ordinateur (Ivory Coast)

    Issac Kalonji (Democratic Republic of Congo)

    Best DJ

    DJ Moh Green – ‘Kelele’ (Algeria) WINNER

    Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)

    Uncle Waffles – ‘Wadibusa’ (South Africa)

    DJ Tunez – ‘Apala Disco Remix’ (Nigeria)

    DJ Nelasta – ‘Eros’ (Angola)

    DJ Spinall ft. Tyla & Omah Lay – ‘One Call’ (Nigeria)

    DJ Neptune ft. Qing Madi – ‘Honest’ (Nigeria)

    DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)

    Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

    Best Hip Hop Artist (sponsored by Hot 97)

    Didi B (Ivory Coast) WINNER

    Nasty C (South Africa)

    Odumodublvck (Nigeria)

    Suspect 95 (Ivory Coast)

    Sarkodie (Ghana)

    Young Lunya (Tanzania)

    Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)

    Best Global African Artist

    Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania) WINNER

    Tyla (South Africa)

    Tyler ICU (South Africa)

    Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)

    Burna Boy (Nigeria)

    Asake (Nigeria/USA)

    Rema (Nigeria)

    Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

    Best Male Artist

    Rema (Nigeria) WINNER

    Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)

    Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)

    Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

    Asake (Nigeria)

    Burna Boy (Nigeria)

    Wizkid (Nigeria)

    Stonebwoy (Ghana)

    Best Female Artist

    Tyla (South Africa) WINNER

    Makhadzi (South Africa)

    Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)

    Josey (Ivory Coast)

    Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

    Tems (Nigeria)

    Yemi Alade (Nigeria)

    Best Live Performance

    Fally Ipupa (DRC) WINNER

    Ayra Starr – 21: The World Tour (Nigeria)

    Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)

    Tyla (South Africa)

    Yemi Alade – African Rebel Tour (Nigeria)

    Didi B – Mojo Trone Tour (Ivory Coast)

    Diamond Platnumz – Wasafi Festival (Tanzania)

    Best Producer

    P.Priime – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria) WINNER

    Kelvin Momo – ‘Sewe’ (South Africa)

    DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)

    Tam Sir – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)

    Sarz – ‘Happiness’ (Nigeria)

    Jae 5 – ‘Perfect Combi’ (Ghana)

    KDDO – ‘For Certain’ (Party Next Door) (Nigeria)

    London – ‘Ozeba’ (Nigeria)

    Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

    Best Gospel Artist

    Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria) WINNER

    Spirit of Praise 10 (South Africa)

    KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)

    Ada Ehi (Nigeria)

    Bella Kombo (Tanzania)

    Israël Mbonyi (Rwanda)

    Regional Awards

    Best Artist Eastern Africa

    Bien (Kenya) WINNER

    Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

    Joshua Baraka (Uganda)

    Harmonize (Tanzania)

    Rophnan (Ethiopia)

    Marioo (Tanzania)

    Zuchu (Tanzania)

    Nandy (Tanzania)

    Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone)

    Ayra Starr (Nigeria) WINNER

    Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)

    Adekunle Gold (Nigeria)

    Tems (Nigeria)

    Chike (Nigeria)

    Simi (Nigeria)

    KiDi (Ghana)

    Best Artist (Southern Africa)

    Tyler ICU (South Africa) WINNER

    Titom & Yuppe (South Africa)

    De Mthuda (South Africa)

    Inkabi Zezwe (South Africa)

    Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)

    Tyla (South Africa)

    Uncle Waffles (South Africa)

    Best Artist Francophone Africa

    Josey (Ivory Coast) WINNER

    Didi B (Ivory Coast)

    Tidiane Mario (Congo)

    Gaz Mawete (Democratic Republic of Congo)

    Wally B. Seck (Senegal)

    PhillBill (Cameroon)

    Best Artist (Lusophone Africa)

    Chelsea Dinorath (Angola) WINNER

    Calema (São Tomé and Príncipe)

    Landrick (Angola)

    Twenty Fingers (Mozambique)

    Mr. Bow (Mozambique)

    Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)

    Best Artist (Tanzania)

    Nandy (Tanzania) WINNER

    Mbosso (Zanzibar)

    Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

    Zuchu (Zanzibar)

    Marioo (Tanzania)

    Alikiba (Tanzania)

    Jux (Tanzania)

    Harmonize (Tanzania)

    International and Diaspora Awards

    Best Artist (Europe)

    Joe Dwet File (France/Haiti) WINNER

    Central Cee (United Kingdom)

    Kalash (France/Martinique)

    Darkoo (United Kingdom)

    Jungeli (France)

    Franglish (France)

    Aya Nakamura (France/Mali)

    Best Artist (Brazil)

    Duquesa (Brazil) WINNER

    Racionais MC’s (Brazil)

    MC IG (Brazil)

    Péricles (Brazil)

    Tasha & Tracie (Brazil)

    Ludmilla (Brazil)

    Best Artist (Caribbean)

    Lea Churro (Reunion Island) WINNER

    Venssy (French Guiana)

    Mathieu White (Guadeloupe)

    Meryl (Martinique)

    Nesly (French Guiana)

    Shenseea (Jamaica)

    Kenny Haiti (Haiti)

    Best Artist (Indian Ocean)

    Barth (Reunion) WINNER

    Goulam (Comoros)

    PLL (Reunion)

    Kalipsxau (Reunion)

    Léa Churros (Reunion)

    Jamily Jeanne (Mauritius)

    Lifetime Achievement Award

    D’Banj

  • Tems, Tyla are my girls, says Ayra Starr

    Tems, Tyla are my girls, says Ayra Starr

    Nigerian songstress, Ayra Starr has referred to colleagues and Grammy winners, Tems and Tyla as her girls. Ayra Starr made this known recently in the United Kingdom on the red carpet of the 2025 Music Of Black Origin Awards, MOBO Awards.

    Ayra Starr further hinted at future collaboration with the Grammy award winners.

    When asked if she would be working with Tems and Tyla in the future, Starr said: “Of course, those are my girls. Of course.”

    While Ayra Starr is yet to release any collaboration with Tems and Tyla, sources close to the ladies noted that they all have a cordial relationship.

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    During the 2024 Detty December festivities in Lagos, the three singers were spotted together having fun.

    Last week, Ayra Starr made history at the 2025 MOBO Awards by breaking a 16-year jinx.

    The 22-year-old artist took home two prestigious awards: Best International Act and Best African Music Act at this year’s Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards.

    Her win in the Best International Act category marks a historic milestone, making her the first African female artist to receive the honor.

  • Ayra Starr: Breaking boundaries at 22

    Ayra Starr: Breaking boundaries at 22

    On June 14, 2002, Mr. and Mrs. Aderibigbe welcomed a baby girl into their home in Benin Republic. After seven days, the little tot was christened Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe.

    Little did the Aderibigbe family know that the birth of Oyinkansola would offer members of the family fame and fortune.

    After a while in the neighbouring West African country, Oyinkansola’s parents moved back to Nigeria where she stayed in Abuja and Lagos, embracing her destiny as a young child. At 14, she was sure music was her destiny. Luckily for her, she had a supportive parent and family.

    Until the release of her debut Extended Play in January 2021, her stage name was Oyin. However, after she was signed to Mavins Record, the record label’s head honcho, Don Jazzy and his team, including Rema, decided to find her a suitable moniker for the stage. Known to have created Reekado Banks from his love for Telemundo’s telenovelas amidst other monikers, the prolific music maker and record label executive came up with the name, Ira.

    In her words: “We are Africans, I’m a Nigerian and a Yoruba girl, every Yoruba name means a prayer. It was so important for my name to mean something that I want to stand for and that’s what I did. Oyin means honey, I love it and would have gone for it but my team, Don Jazzy, Rema and others all thought about it and we got something – Ira.

    “I don’t know how it happened, I decided to google it one time, I spelt AYRA and it means someone highly respected and open-minded in Arabic and it just made sense,”  she said.

    And so, Ayra Starr was born.

    Her debut song ‘Away,’ had millions of streams on various streaming platforms on release and topped charts. The lead single from her debut EP spent two weeks at number four on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 50 chart.

    Music and Ayra

    In a chat on the role music has played in her life, she said: “Music has played a very big role in my life, music has given me confidence, music has been there for me when I was sad, Music makes me happy and music is everything and music has made me rich.”

    On the most rewarding part of being a global singer, she said: “The most rewarding part is just listening to people sing my songs, listening to my songs and knowing that my music is making an impact on people. For instance, I went to a club for a performance and a lady walked up to me to tell me that my music has been her soul comforter since she lost her mother and that really made me feel good, so that is one of the most rewarding parts for me.”

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    At the moment, Ayra Starr, also referred to as the ‘Sabi Girl’ in some quarters, has registered herself as a chart-topping force reshaping the global music scene. Her catchy hits consistently top Nigerian charts and her influence resonates worldwide, turning her music into international anthems. This makes her a leading voice in the exciting evolution of global music, transforming the soundscape one hit at a time.

    Ayra Starr’s influence is evident in her chart dominance on streaming platforms across the world. As a Spotify RADAR and EQUAL alumna, the 22-year-old stands tall as Nigeria’s most-streamed female artist on Spotify in 2024.

    Her artistry and strategic approach to global music are undeniable. While only two of her tracks, ‘Last Heartbreak Song’ and ‘Bad Vibes’ appear on the 2025 Spotify Global Impact List, her collaborative power is evident with the chart-topping success of ‘Santa,’ which features Rvssian and Latin artist Rauw Alejandro. The song showcases Ayra’s ability to connect with diverse audiences and expand her reach through strategic partnerships across different markets. Her impressive showing on the list, with six entries including ‘Commas,’ ‘Good Feelings,’ and ‘Hypé’ underscores her versatility and appeal. Her album, ‘The Year I Turned 21,’ also cemented her global reach, ranking among the top 10 most-streamed albums of the year.

    Milestone achievements at 22

    Ayra Starr released her debut studio album, entitled ’19 & Dangerous’ in 2021 under Mavins Record. She released her sophomore album ‘The Year I Turned 21’ in 2024 and has gone on to feature in globally acclaimed features.

    Hence, it came as no surprise when at 21, she grabbed her first grammy nomination in 2022 for Best African Music Performance for her song ‘Rush.’ The nomination saw her emerging as the first and youngest Nigerian woman to be nominated in the category.

    Not done, at 22, Ayra Starr won the Best African Music Act and Best International Act awards.

    The feat also saw her making history as the first woman to win Best African Music Act in 16 years.

    From ‘Away’ to ‘Bloody Samaritan’ to ‘Rush,’ ‘Sability,’ ‘Commas,’ ‘Good Feelings,’ and ‘Last Heartbreak Song,’ Ayra Star has made a huge impact on the music scene at just 22.

    With all the success, one is quick to wonder how she writes and composes the chart-topping songs. “Writing songs is me writing and singing about my experiences. I am still evolving, still finding more to write about and how to never run out of material. I can write about my experiences without feeling a certain type of way,” she responded.

    On advice to young artists trying to breakthrough, she said: “An advice I will give to young artists getting their starts is to be yourself, keep going, work hard, pray and educate yourself like if you have to learn about music theory, or learn about an instrument so that you can be the best at whatever you do.”

  • I owned a troll page before stardom, says Ayra Starr

    I owned a troll page before stardom, says Ayra Starr

    Award-winning singer Ayra Starr has admitted to owning a troll social media page before gaining fame.

    The singer, whose real name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, made the revelation during an appearance on the popular podcast “I Said What I Said”.

    According to Ayra Starr, she also had a dedicated fan page for American rapper Nicki Minaj.

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    “I had a troll page, I had a Nicki Minaj fan page before I became Ayra Starr,” she said.

    Ayra Starr has been repeatedly targeted by trolls over her fashion choices and postures but she remained vocal and unapologetic in her responses.