Mini skirts. Beautiful sounds. Interesting persona. Ayra Starr is whoever she thinks she is. But did you know these 10 things about the West African diva?
Ayra Starr burst onto the Nigerian music scene with her breakout single Away and has since carved out a space for herself as one of Afrobeats’ most dynamic voices. Discovered by Don Jazzy, she quickly became a force to reckon with, blending her celestial energy with a daring sense of style and a voice that commands attention.
In a male-dominated industry, Ayra Starr is redefining what it means to be a female artist in Afrobeats. Her music is a fusion of youthful rebellion, raw emotions, and an unmistakable confidence that keeps fans hooked. Beyond the music, she has become an internet sensation, known for her comedic expressions, which have now become memes. She doesn’t just make music—she creates a world around her artistry, embracing the persona of a celestial being while maintaining her authenticity.
But there’s more to Ayra Starr than what meets the eye. Here are ten things you may not know about her.
1. She Holds Both Beninese and Nigerian Heritage
Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe on June 14, 2002, in Cotonou, Benin Republic, Ayra Starr has both Beninese and Nigerian roots. While her parents are Nigerian, she spent her early years in Cotonou before moving to Nigeria.
2. She Got Into University at 14
Ayra Starr is not just musically gifted—she’s academically inclined too. At just 14, she gained admission into Les Cours Sonou University, where she studied International Relations and Political Science. She completed her degree by 2020, proving that she is as serious about education as she is about music.
3. Don Jazzy Discovered Her on Social Media
In December 2019, a simple post on X (formerly Twitter) changed her life. Ayra Starr had been sharing covers and original songs on Instagram when Don Jazzy, the founder of Mavin Records, came across her music. He reached out, and within a short time, she was signed to Mavin Records, setting her on the path to stardom.
4. She Almost Didn’t Release “Rush”
One of Ayra Starr’s biggest hits, Rush, almost never made it to the world. She wasn’t entirely sure about the song, but her record label insisted on pushing it out. When it finally dropped in September 2022, it became a global anthem, racking up millions of streams and earning her a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance in 2024.
5. Ayra Starr is Passionate About Philanthropy
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Ayra Starr is deeply committed to giving back. In 2023, she partnered with NGOs to provide scholarships and championed mental health awareness for Nigerian youths. She actively supports causes that align with her values.
6. She Used Music as an Escape from Bullying
Growing up, Ayra Starr faced bullying because of her petite frame and youthful appearance. This experience shaped her in many ways, but instead of letting it break her, she turned to music as her refuge. It became her escape, her therapy, and ultimately, her career.
7. She Put Her Family on Payroll After Rising to Fame
Ayra Starr turned her success into a family affair, employing all her siblings, who are directly paid by Mavin Records. Her brother, Bushboy Marc, is a video director responsible for most of her music videos. He earns a percentage of the royalties, making millions from hits like Rush and Commas.
Her sister, Saltiana, is a DJ and also serves as Ayra Starr’s personal DJ and backup singer, hyping her up at shows. Their youngest sibling, Milar, is an artist and producer who helps write and produce her music. Through Ayra Starr, he also gets to learn the business side of music at the Mavin Academy.
8. Before Music, She Was a Model
Before she became a music sensation, Ayra Starr was making waves in the fashion world. At 16, she was signed to Quove Model Management, working with brands like Mazelle Studio and featuring in publications like Viper Magazine. Her love for fashion is still evident in her unique “skimpy” style and bold fashion statements.
9. She Taught Herself to Sing Through YouTube
While Ayra Starr has a natural gift, she didn’t just wake up with the vocal range she has today—she worked for it. She honed her skills by watching YouTube tutorials. Interestingly, her brother, Dami Aderibigbe, is also a guitarist, producer, and songwriter who played a key role in her musical journey.
10. The Story Behind Her Stage Name
Ayra Starr’s stage name wasn’t just a random pick. She was originally drawn to the Yoruba name Ira, which means “witness” or “to be seen.” However, she wanted it pronounced as “Ayra.” The “Starr” part was however added by Don Jazzy.
