Interview: Ayra Starr On Staying Grounded, Working With Mavin Records, Upcoming Album + More

There’s no stopping Ayra Starr. Since the release of her debut album, ’19 & Dangerous’ in 2021, the singer-songwriter has grown into an Afro-Fusion star of note and the voice of the youth in Nigeria and all over the continent.

The deluxe version of her debut, released in 2022, came with five new songs and a Kelly Rowland feature. To date, Ayra Starr’s list of collaborators has grown and it includes the likes of Wizkid, Stormzy, Skip Marley, Rema, and recently, Dreamville’s Bas with whom she collaborated on ‘Ogogoro’ from the ‘Creed III’ soundtrack, among others.

We caught up with Ayra Starr about her latest single ’Sability’, being part of Mavin Records, how her journey has treated her and more.

Please break down the meaning of your new single ‘Sability’. 

“Sabi” is a pidgin word here in Nigeria that means to know, woke, knowledgeable etc. It depends on the context in which it’s being used. Hence, ‘Sability’ is the ability to sabi, it depends on the way you decide to use the word to fit different aspects of your life.

Kelly Rowland appeared on the ‘Bloody Samaritan’ remix. What has that collaboration done for your career?

Kelly Rowland is someone I respect and listened to while growing up and having her on the record just made me realise the endless possibilities ahead of me. 

Mavin Records is celebrating a decade of unearthing new talent like yourself and turning them into stars. What have you learned about the label you are part of in this celebratory season? 

I’ve learnt that it is beyond talent, you have to have drive and be able to put in the work to have your desired successful career. Also that you need people, there’s not so much you can do on your own, your team is very important. 

You came into the game as a teen sensation, you were the voice of young people. Who is Ayra today and how has that influenced your musical direction? 

Ayra Starr is still who she was when she set out, just more learned and confident in who she is. I wouldn’t say influence my musical direction, I would say it has helped me in staying grounded and knowing that there are people who look up to me as their voice in this generation.  

When are you dropping your follow-up project?  What can you tell us about it?

Soon. Just watch this space. I’ll say it’ll be a reflection of the growth of Ayra Starr. 

Stream Ayra Starr’s latest songs below: