Ayra Starr Biography: Career, Age, Net Worth and More

Ayra Starr, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe on June 14, 2002, is a prominent Nigerian singer, songwriter, and model originating from Kwara State. Her breakthrough came in early 2021 with the release of her self-titled debut EP, featuring the chart-topping track “Away,” which spent two consecutive weeks at number four on Nigeria’s TurnTable Top 50 and reached number 17 on the US Billboard Top Triller Global chart. This success paved the way for her first full-length studio album, “19 & Dangerous,” released in August 2021.

Primarily recognized for her Afropop and R&B style, Ayra Starr’s album received positive critical acclaim, producing two top forty hits in Nigeria. The lead single, “Bloody Samaritan,” claimed the top spot on the Top 50 chart, making her the first female artist with a solo song to achieve this position.

Early Life:

Born in Cotonou, Benin, Ayra Starr grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, in a family with Nigerian roots from Kwara State. Despite moving frequently during her high school years due to her father’s business, Ayra’s passion for singing developed in her music-loving family. She joined a high school choir at the age of 10 and began writing songs with her brother.

Education:

Ayra Starr pursued her education at Les Cours Sonou University, earning a BA degree in international relations and political science. Despite facing bullying from classmates due to her age and appearance, Ayra found solace in music, often listening to Nicki Minaj on her way to school. Her mother played a supportive role in encouraging her musical ambitions.

Musical Career:

Ayra Starr’s journey into the spotlight began when she signed with Quove Models in August 2018, leading to modeling gigs for various companies. In 2019, she gained attention for her online covers of songs by artists like Andra Day and 2Face Idibia. Her stage name reflects her commitment to being “woke and eye-opening.”

Her breakthrough moment came in December 2019 when she uploaded an original song, “Damage,” on her Instagram, catching the attention of label executive Don Jazzy and securing her first recording contract with Mavin Records. Her debut EP, released in January 2021, quickly rose to the number-one position on Nigeria iTunes and Apple Music.

The EP’s standout track, “Away,” achieved significant success, reaching high positions on various charts and accumulating millions of streams across platforms. Ayra Starr continued to make an impact with remix versions of her songs and collaborations with other artists.

On August 6, 2021, she released her debut studio album, “19 & Dangerous,” collaborating with producers Louddaaa and Don Jazzy. The album received favorable reviews, showcasing Ayra’s versatility in blending elements of R&B, neo-soul, and Afropop percussion.

Achievements and Personal Life:

Ayra Starr received nominations at prestigious awards such as the African Entertainment Awards USA, African Muzik Magazine Awards, Mobo Awards, and Net Honours. Her personal life includes the loss of her father in 2018, a significant influence on her music. She currently resides with her mother and brother in Mainland Lagos, emphasizing her focus on her career, as she remains single without a boyfriend or husband.

Net Worth:

While details about Ayra Starr’s net worth remain speculative due to her relatively recent entry into the music scene, estimates suggest it is around $400,000.