Ayra Starr has hit for days! It’s practically impossible to pick a favorite.
There’s a seismic energy that shakes the music world when a new star emerges—raw, undeniable, and untamed. Ayra Starr is that star. With a voice that drips attitude and a mini-skirted, fearless presence that challenges convention, she’s carving a lane for herself and daring anyone to follow.
By 18, she’d caught the eye of Mavin Records’ Don Jazzy, who wasted no time signing her. It was a move that felt less like a gamble and more like the crowning of a future queen. Then came “Away.” A breakout hit that carried all the raw emotion of heartbreak but delivered with a cool confidence that signaled Ayra Starr wasn’t here to play, she had arrived. Since then, she’s dropped hit after hit, blending Afropop, R&B, and global sounds into a cocktail that’s equal parts sultry, defiant, and introspective. At just 22, she’s redefining what it means to be young, African, and dangerous.
Here are 20 songs that define Ayra Starr’s meteoric rise, from chart-topping anthems to underrated gems that showcase her range and relentless drive.
1. Away
Ayra Starr’s 2021 debut single, Away, is a breakup anthem with attitude. Featured on her self-titled EP, the track captures the essence of moving on with effortless cool. Over a slow-burning instrumental, she channels heartbreak into liberation, her melancholic yet assertive vocals setting the perfect tone.
2. DITR
One of Ayra Starr’s most introspective tracks, DITR also from her debut EP offers a glimpse into her depth as a songwriter and storyteller. This moody, soulful ballad explores youthful recklessness and the clash between parental values and real-world choices. Set against a mellow instrumental, Ayra’s poignant lyrics highlight her ability to address societal themes while maintaining mainstream appeal—a testament to her versatility as an artist.
3. Sare
Ayra Starr puts a fresh spin on nostalgia with Sare, weaving elements of the Lijadu Sisters’ Orere Elejigbo into a vibrant, modern sound. A standout from her debut project, the track pairs pulsating rhythms with unfiltered lyricism, turning a farewell to a toxic lover into an infectious anthem.
4. Bloody Samaritan
The breakout single from her 2021 debut album, 19 & Dangerous, propelled Ayra Starr onto the global stage, earning a high-profile remix with Kelly Rowland. Fierce and unapologetic, the track sees Ayra silencing doubters over a hard-hitting beat. Topping Nigerian charts, it cemented her status as a rising star with unstoppable momentum.
5. Beggie Beggie (ft. CKay)
A bittersweet love story told through Ayra’s tender vocals and CKay’s emotive flow. This 19 & Dangerous duet captures the ache of unreciprocated love with haunting precision. It’s tender and pleading, their voices locking in a way that pulls you right into the story.
6. Fashion Killer
A 19 & Dangerous track, Fashion Killer fully embraces Ayra’s mini-skirt vibe. It’s bold, bouncy, and an anthem for strutting with confidence. Her braggadocious tone, laced with a hint of defiance, keeps listeners hooked.
7. Love Don’t Cost a Dime (Refix) ft Magixx
Soft, sweet, and brimming with romance. This 2021 refix with Magixx became a fan favorite for its dreamy vibe and heartfelt lyrics.
8. 2 Sugar (ft. Wizkid)
On Wizkid’s 2022 More Love, Less Ego, “2 Sugar” drips with charm. Ayra’s voice dances with Wizkid’s, a sweet win for her resume.
9. Rush
A song that doesn’t just demand attention—it commands it. With relentless energy, a killer hook, and Ayra’s unmistakable voice, Rush broke records, peaked at No. 24 on the UK charts, and earned her a Grammy nod.
10. Sability
Sability is a vibrant Afropop track produced by London. It blends infectious rhythms with a nostalgic touch, sampling Awilo Longomba’s Coupe Bibamba. In 2023, it earned a spot on Barack Obama’s coveted summer playlist, cementing its global appeal.
11. Stamina (with Tiwa Savage & Young Jonn)
Released in 2023, Tiwa Savage’s Stamina is a dynamic collaboration featuring Ayra Starr and Young Jonn. The track pulses with infectious energy, with Ayra delivering a standout performance alongside the Afropop heavyweights.
12. Ngozi ft Crayon
Featured on Crayon’s 2023 album Trench to Triumph, Ngozi is a vibrant Afropop love duet where Ayra Starr effortlessly steals the spotlight. Her magnetic presence and signature vocals elevate the track.
13. Rhythm & Blues
Originally released as a 2023 single before landing on The Year I Turned 21 (2024), this track sees Ayra Starr dive into smooth R&B territory. Polished and mature, it showcases her versatility while retaining the boldness that defines her sound.
14. Commas
Commas moves with unshakable confidence as the lead single of The Year I Turned 21. A triumphant anthem about reaping the rewards of hard work, the track blends Ayra Starr’s signature flair with an infectious beat that begs for a replay.
15. Bad Vibes (Seyi Vibez)
Another standout from The Year I Turned 21, this track sees Ayra Starr and Seyi Vibez effortlessly dismissing negate energy. Their chemistry is undeniable, turning the song into an instant mood booster.
16. Goodbye (ft. Asake)
A clean break, wrapped in irresistible melodies. This 2024 collaboration from The Year I Turned 21 pairs Ayra’s emotional depth with Asake’s signature flair.
17. Last Heartbreak Song ft Giveon
A slow, aching ballad that lingers long after the final note. Ayra Starr and Giveon’s voices blend seamlessly in this global crossover track from The Year I Turned 21.
18. Woman Commando (ft. Anitta, Coco Jones)
This star-studded anthem from The Year I Turned 21 sees Ayra Starr, Anitta, and Coco Jones join forces for a global celebration of fearless women. Fierce, empowering, and unapologetic, it’s a statement of strength that refuses to be ignored.
19. Jazzy’s Song
From The Year I Turned 21, Jazzy’s Song pays homage to Don Jazzy with a slick sample of the Wande Coal classic You Bad. Ayra Starr masterfully blends nostalgia with ambition, capturing her journey with the bold declaration: “Last year I made money, this year I want a million more.”
20. All the Love
Released in early 2025, this slow-burn love song captures Ayra’s romantic side. Soft, soulful, and deeply felt, it’s a new chapter in her evolving sound.
