With a voice that glides between soulful vulnerability and fierce self-assurance, the Nigerian singer-songwriter has carved a unique space in the global music scene.
Barely out of her teens, she’s amassed millions of fans, stacked up international accolades, and become one of Afrobeats’ most magnetic young pioneers.
Whether she’s lighting up festival stages, reinventing Y2K fashion, or topping Billboard charts, Ayra Starr is proof that the future of African music is alrea
Early Life & background
Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe on June 14, 2002, in Cotonou, Benin Republic, Ayra was raised in Lagos, Nigeria.
Her multicultural upbringing influenced her artistry from a young age.
She wrote songs with her brother as early as age 10 and eventually earned a degree in International Relations from Les Cours Sonou University.
Rise to fame
Ayra began as a fashion model with Quove Model Management before transitioning to music. Her Instagram covers caught the eye of Don Jazzy, who signed her to Mavin Records in 2020. Her debut self-titled EP dropped in 2021 and set her on a meteoric path.
Hit Songs & discography
Ayra’s signature sound fuses Afropop, R&B, and soul.
Top hits include:
- “Away”
- “Rush” (Grammy-nominated)
- “Bloody Samaritan”
- “Commas”
- “Sability”
- “Fashion Killer”
- “Beggie Beggie” (featuring CKay)
Albums: Ayra Starr (EP, 2021), 19 & Dangerous (2021), The Year I Turned 21 (2024)
Awards & achievements
- Grammy Nomination for “Rush” (2024)
- MOBO Awards (2025) – Best International Act & Best African Music Act
- Headies Award – Best R&B Single
- Spotify EQUAL Ambassador (2024)
- First African female artist on the Glastonbury Pyramid Stage
- Billboard 200 debut for The Year I Turned 21
Net worth & endorsements
Estimated net worth: $1–2.5 million
Streams of income:
- Streaming royalties
- YouTube (974M+ views)
- Brand deals: New Balance, Maybelline, Infinix, Pepsi
- Influencer presence: Over 4.2M Instagram followers
Fashion & Persona
Ayra Starr’s fashion is a mix of Y2K glam, afro-centric flair, and future-pop drama. She’s become a Gen Z trendsetter known for bold, expressive looks and collaborations with top designers.
Controversies & public perception
She’s been mostly scandal-free. Speculation over her relationship with Rema made the rounds, but Ayra debunked it with grace. She’s also opened up about battling bullying, finding strength in music and self-expression.
Legacy in the making
Ayra Starr stands tall as a voice of her generation. A visionary artist, cultural icon, and unstoppable force, her journey has just begun—but it already sparkles like the stars she sings among.
