January 2021 came with a huge surprise in music from Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records. With no prior hint, the Nigerian Record Label, home to Nigerian music stars like Korede Bello, Rema and Johnny Drille, announced signing a new artiste: Ayra Starr. No one knew anything about her except the fact that she was releasing an EP at midnight.
Hours after the self-titled 5-track EP hit digital stores; it became the number one project in Nigeria on Apple Music. It didn’t stop there. The song, “Away” off the project has since gone on to make waves not only in Africa but the UK as well, presenting the young singer as an incredible representation of young black girls. The admiration, her amazing vocals and the fact that she was just a teen had Ayra Starr on everyone’s lips. “Who was she?”
Ayra Starr born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe may be one of Nigeria’s superstars at the moment but, she is a Benin native, born in the city of Cotonou to Nigerian parents. She spent most of her life alternating between the two countries, Nigeria and Benin and has always had love for music. Most of her stories from home include making music with her brother, Dami Aderibigbe who has writing credits on most of the songs on the “Ayra Starr EP”.
For as long as the Afrosoul singer remembers, she has always known she was going to be a star but even that did not prepare her for the pleasant shock at the Instagram DM from Nigerian music mogul, Don Jazzy expressing interest to sign her to his label, Mavin Records.
In a few months, Ayra Starr went from a University graduate from Les Cours Sonou University in Cotonou to becoming a chart-topping singer, well on her way to global stardom.
“I’ve always known I would become a musician and a star. I would tell people “I’m going to be a star” and they’d look at me with those side-eyes. Since the age of eight, I’ve always wanted to do music and the way things have unfolded have been nothing short of amazing. This is exactly how I envisioned it, and I’ll keep working hard towards my dream because I’m just getting started.”
Despite the instant fame and everything that comes with being a global sensation, Ayra Starr is still very much grounded and fondly shares moments of her life in the country she calls home: Benin. She also talks about how much she’s loving living her dreams as well as her love for her second home, Nigeria.
What was growing up in Benin like for you?
It was like a breath of fresh air. There was a brewery close by that meant anytime you wake up you’d have to take in that aroma of fresh beer in the air.
What is your favourite memory from your childhood?
All the musical games we would play growing up. Even when there was no electricity, we’d find ways to make being home fun for ourselves using music.
What’s something about Benin you’d love to share with the world?
The simplicity. Everyone just lives this very simple life and people weren’t so bothered about how the next person was living their life. It's a very real place with real people.
If you hadn’t become a music artiste, what would you have been?
Probably be into fashion and modeling. Maybe along the way I’d have found myself a job that’s related to my course of study which is International Relations but…I can confidently say there’s absolutely nothing compared to my career right now that’s for sure!
Did you ever think your music will have this impact in Nigeria?
Yes I did. I prayed and fasted to God for my music to not just entertain but impact people in different ways. The reason for all this is basically to help people find an exciting escape…help them destress and if my music does that for them then so be it!
What’s your favorite thing about Nigeria?
The people. The country is filled with hustlers who work hard to feed their own and it’s very inspiring.
Is your music having the same impact in Benin as it is doing in Nigeria? Should fans expect anything heavily influenced by Benin culture?
I think you can hear all that in my music already. My music is diverse and I never seize to add my cultural background into that. I have a few French songs coming so my Benin people can look forward to that.
How have the different cultures you were exposed to, (from growing up in Nigeria and Benin) shaped you as a person?
It’s made me more open minded and has made me understand that people are allowed to be different and I’ve managed to add that to my music as well.
What are some values you’ve carried along from your childhood/family and are applying now?
Loving people regardless of their background, their mistakes and whatnot. Just showing love 24/7 round the clock.
What are you looking forward to the most in your music career?
I’m looking forward to growing as an artist, my music continuing to have a positive impact in the lives of people, being able to tour all while still being ME and remaining happy.
What’s the most exciting thing that’s happened to you so far in your career aside being discovered by Don Jazzy?
Artists that I look up to have started reaching out to me wanting to work and it’s amazing for me because I would have never imagined it. I’ve also got my event coming up very soon and that's very exciting too. I literally can't wait to meet my super supportive fans.
By: Margaret Sagoe
