Culture

Ayra Starr: How Afrobeats Star Went From Street Hawking With Granny To A Global Star In 6 Years

BY JO Mensah October 19, 2023 8:23 PM EDT
Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr used to sell on the streets just six years Photo source: @ayrastarr

Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has opened up on her rags-to-riches story, sharing insights into her life before fame.

The Afrobeats sensation has become a global star barely three years after bursting onto the scene but it has not been all rosy.

Just about six years ago, the Sability hitmaker was selling vegetables on the streets with her grandmother.

Ayra Starr was a singing hawker

According to the 21-year-old, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, she used to sing for customers while selling.

Ayra Starr, a favourite of Barack Obama, shared her touching story in a post on her Instagram stories. Sharing a photo of her time as a street hawker, she said:

“I used to sell vegetables on the streets with my grandmother six years ago. Back then, I would sing to anyone who would listen,” Ayra Starr revealed, reflecting on her journey.”

Fans inspired by Ayra Starr’s story

This revelation warmed the hearts of fans and admirers, who have praised her for her determination and unyielding passion for music.

Many have expressed admiration for her unrelenting spirit, which has seen her ascend from these modest circumstances to becoming one of the most promising talents in the Nigerian music industry.

In recent years, Ayra Starr’s name has become synonymous with success. The singer, signed to Mavin Records, has gained recognition for her distinctive sound and powerful vocals.

She has released a series of hit songs, including Away and Bloody Samaritan, which have won the hearts of music lovers across the globe.

Her 2023 hit song, Sability, appeared on Barack Obama’s summer playlist.

Ayra Starr bags MTV EMAs nomination

Meanwhile, Ayra Starr will have a chance to win an award at the 2023 MTV EMAs.

As previously reported, Afrobeats artistes will have their shine on the awards night. The genre has been added as one of the categories for prestigious awards for the first time.

Organizers of the prestigious event announced the introduction of Afrobeats as they released nominations for the awards.

The nominees in the maiden edition of the category are French superstar, Aya Nakamura, and Nigerian singers, Asake, Arya Starr, Burna Boy, Davido and Rema.