In the vast music industry, few stories are as inspiring and heartwarming as that of Ayra Starr. The singer went from singing at the local market, where she would captivate whoever would listen while selling vegetables with her grandmother, to becoming a star.
Ayra Starr is now paid to perform for audiences who eagerly pay to listen, a testament to talent and the power of dreams.
6 years ago, this used to be me selling vegetables and fruits with my grandma, singing to whoever wanted to hear me. Now people are paying to watch me perform”
She wrote.
A Humble Beginning
Ayra Starr, whose real name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe was born on June 14, 2002. Her Beninese-Nigerian roots are a rich source of inspiration for her soulful music. However, it was her early experiences and the influence of her grandmother that laid the foundation for her remarkable journey.
Besides childhood singing in the market, Ayra Starr began her music journey in 2019 with online song covers. She even appeared in Eri Ife’s “Dear Future Wife“ as a video vixen.
Signing with Mavin Records and Lucky Break
Shortly after posting an original track named ‘Damage’ on Instagram, Ayra Starr caught the attention of Don Jazzy, who showed interest in collaborating with her. The following year, in 2020, she began recording at Mavin Studios. And her self-titled debut EP was officially released on January 22, 2021.
Ayra Starr’s big break came after the release of her breakout single, “Away” in 2021. The song quickly gained massive popularity, across Nigeria and beyond. Her other single “Rush,” released in 2022 achieved chart success in various countries, including the Netherlands, Switzerland, and The United Kingdom. This milestone marked her as the sole Nigerian female artist to have a solo song featured on the UK Official Singles Chart. She has more bangers under her belt, including “Bloody Samaritan” and “Karma.”
Paid to Perform
Ayra Starr’s meteoric rise to stardom brought her to the point where she transitioned from singing for the market crowds to becoming a paid performer. She is now a sought-after artist who has graced stages from Nairobi, Kenya to the United Kingdom.
Ayra Starr continues to inspire countless aspiring artists to follow their dreams, no matter where they come from.
By BNN