Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr is impossible to ignore. Born in Benin Republic, the 19-year-old was raised between its beach city, Cotonou and the cultural hub of Lagos, Nigeria. This mix of cultures inspires her global approach to music, art and life. She's inspired by the regal earthiness of Angelique Kidjo, Rihanna's feisty confidence, as well as 90s fashion icons, and the edgy aesthetic of emo-pop. Ayra describes her sound as Afrosoul, told in an intoxicating voice that evokes a Gen Z icon in-the-making. Drawing from influences like classic Yoruba and Beninese music & artists like 2Face and Wande Coal, her music speaks for a generation of girls around the world who are finding themselves, united by angst and emojis. She announced herself to the world on January 22 with an eponymous 5-track EP, which produced the No. 1 single, “Away” and spurred viral moments in the UK as well. But Ayra Starr’s moment will come month’s after after releasing her debut studio album- 19 & Dangerous. The celestial being’s 2021 has been replete with multiple number 1s, unprecedented cosigns, and organic virality- all crescendoing in a MOBO awards nomination in just under a year of unveil. With over a million instagram followers already and even more waiting for her next move, 2022 can not come fast enough for the teenage singing sensation With a strong opening statement and a flurry of co-signs, Ayra Starr is giving black girls a new voice.