Ayra Starr has etched her name deeper into the annals of Nigerian music history by being crowned the No. 1 female artist for 2024. The announcement came via TurnTable’s annual end-of-year chart, which aggregates streaming figures, radio plays, and TV airplay data to identify the biggest names in the industry.
At just 22, Ayra Starr continues to prove herself a formidable force in the Nigerian and global music scene. Her recent success is largely credited to her sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21, which has been hailed as a masterpiece.
A Record-Breaking Year
The album, released earlier in 2024, featured collaborations with some of the biggest names in both Nigerian and international music. Local stars like Asake and Seyi Vibez lent their voices to tracks, while international sensations Giveon, Coco Jones, and Aniita added a global flavor.
One of the standout singles, “Comma,” became an instant hit, dominating charts across streaming platforms. Another track, “Bad Vibes,” which featured Seyi Vibez, not only trended across social media but also garnered critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of Afrobeat and R&B.
According to Spotify data, Ayra’s album was the most-streamed Nigerian project of the year, amassing over 700 million streams. “She’s not just an artist; she’s a phenomenon,” one critic noted. The album’s success extended beyond Nigerian borders, earning Ayra a spot on international charts and playlists.
The Flytime Fest Highlight
To cap off a stellar year, Ayra Starr delivered a breathtaking headline performance at the prestigious Flytime Fest. Sharing the stage with industry heavyweights like Tiwa Savage and Rema, Ayra cemented her reputation as a show-stopper. Attendees described her set as “electrifying,” with her energy and stage presence leaving fans clamoring for more.
A Three-Year Reign
This latest accolade marks the third consecutive year Ayra Starr has topped TurnTable’s end-of-year chart as Nigeria’s leading female artist, a feat that underscores her consistency and staying power in an industry known for fierce competition.
Music analyst Chika Okafor commented, “Ayra Starr has achieved what few can: sustained relevance. Her music speaks to different demographics, and her sound evolves with every project.”
A Global Star in the Making
Ayra’s collaborations with international artists also signal her growing global appeal. One of her most talked-about features was on Rvssian’s “Santa,” a track that quickly became a club anthem in multiple countries. The synergy between Ayra and her collaborators highlights her versatility and ability to transcend borders.
Fans and colleagues alike have flooded social media with congratulatory messages for the artist. “Congratulations, Ayra Starr! You’ve earned this,” wrote a fan on Twitter, while another added, “She’s truly the queen of Nigerian music. No arguments.”
Even amidst the praise, Ayra remains humble. Speaking in an earlier interview about her journey, she said, “I’ve always believed in my craft, but the love and support I’ve received from my fans make it all worthwhile.”
The Journey So Far
Ayra Starr’s rise to fame began in 2020 when she signed with Mavin Records, a label known for grooming superstars like Rema and Tiwa Savage. Her self-titled debut EP introduced her as a fresh voice in Afrobeat, and she hasn’t looked back since.
In 2022, she released her debut album 19 & Dangerous, which catapulted her to stardom. Songs like “Bloody Samaritan” became anthems, earning her a loyal fanbase and recognition as one of Nigeria’s most promising young talents.
By 2023, Ayra was already a household name, racking up accolades and performing on some of the biggest stages in the world. Her Grammy nomination further validated her artistry and potential.
