Ayra Starr Is Living the Dream

Since the release of her debut EP in 2021, Ayra Starr has cemented her place as one of the most internationally acclaimed African artists of her generation. In under five years, she has grown into the star she named herself, collecting milestones that many spend decades chasing. A Grammy nominee, MTV Europe Music Award nominee, Billboard Music Award nominee, and most recently, winner of the 2025 BET Award for Best International Act, Ayra continues to prove that her talent flows effortlessly, and as she sings in “Rush”, e dey rush.

Beyond awards, she has graced some of the world’s biggest stages, even sharing the spotlight with the iconic Coldplay. On September 27, she will take on the Global Citizen Festival in New York, performing in the line-up alongside Cardi B, Shakira, and fellow African, Tyla.

Last year, ahead of the Global Citizen Festival performance, I had a chat with Ayra to talk about what it means to have come this far, this fast. With her latest album, Starrgirl, dominating charts with Heaven Baby being a fan favourite, it is instructive to revisit this important conversation about her journey.

When you think of moments you’ve shared stages with global artists, what does it symbolise for you personally and for the future of Afrobeats on global stages? 

Oh my God, it takes me back to when I was growing up listening to their songs and being the most adorable fangirl; it takes me to the moments when I would practise dancing like Shakira because I was, and I still am, such a huge fan. Overall, I feel a sense of gratitude and recognition for my music. There are Afrobeats superstars who have done incredible things by paving the way for artists like me. I’m just glad to be able…