Ayra Starr
Profession: Musician
Born: June 14, 2002
Age: 23 years old
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Birthplace: Cotonou, Benin
Known for: Songs like Rush and Bloody Samaritan
Biography
Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who is known for her songs “Rush”, “Bloody Samaritan”, and “Hot Body”. She is recognized for her unique style and music genres of Afrobeats, Afro-pop and R&B. She was included in the list of Forbes 30 under 30 in music category, in 2023.
Ayra Starr was born in Cotonou, Benin, as the second child in a family of five children. She grew up with her siblings in both Cotonou, and Lagos, Nigeria. She obtained a BA degree in International Relation and political science at Les Cours Sonou University in Cotonou.
Ayra Starr whose music style has been influenced by her connection to Nigerian culture and tradition, began writing songs and performing at local events. She caught the attention of industry professionals with her unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B and pop, which led to her first major collaborations.
Ayra Starr was signed by Mavin records and released her self-titled debut EP, in 2021, under the label. She also followed up with the release of her debut studio album, 19 & Dangerous (2021).
Ayra Starr had her major breakthrough with the release of “Rush” in 2022. The song charted in several countries, including Switzerland, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. It also earned her a nomination for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance.
She released her second studio album “The Year I Turned 21” in 2024. The same year, she appeared on the cover of Euphoria and Dazed magazine Autumn 2024 issue. She also became the brand ambassador for Infinix Mobile Hot Series.
She graced the cover of the “Rule the World” editorial for Blanc magazines January 2025 issue, and later signed an endorsement deal with New Balance in February 2025.
Aside from music, she also ventured into modelling and acting. She featured in the movie “Christmas in Lagos” in 2024, and “Children of Blood and blone” in 2025. She made her runway debut at the London Fashion Week in 2025.
Ayra Starr has been acknowledged for her effort in the music industry with several awards to her name which include; Headies awards, MOBO awards, Trace awards, BET awards and so on. She was named the Breakout Artist of the Year by Nigerian Entertianment Today in 2023, and also became the first woman in 16 years to win Best African Music Act at the MOBO Awards.
Career Timeline
- 2021 – 19& Dangerous (album)
- 2021 – Rush (single)
- 2021 – Bloody Samaritan (single)
- 2022 – Love Don’t Cost a Dime (single)
- 2023 – Sability (single)
- 2024 – The Year I Turned 21 (album)
- 2024 – Commas (single)
- 2024 – Bad Vibes (single)
- 2024 – Rhythm & Blues (single)
- 2025 – Hot Body (single)
Personal Details
- Alternative name: Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Height: 5 feet 4 inches
- Religion: Christianity
- Siblings: Dami (older brother)
- Official Websites: Instagram – @ayrastarr
Trivia
- Ayra Starr’s stage name is derived from her real name, Oyinkansola Aderibigbe.
- Her parents are from Kwara State.
- She is of Nigerian descent.
- She is from the Yoruba tribe.
- She can speak languages like English, French, and Yoruba.
- She appeared on the covers of Numero, Hunger, and GQ South Africa.
- She started writing songs at the age of 10.
- Her debut EP was produced by London-based producer, Loui.
- She has an estimated net worth of over $1 million.