By Milcah Tanimu

In a recent interview with ELLE Magazine, Nigerian international sensation Ayra Starr discussed her rise as an Afrobeats superstar and provided insights into her upcoming second album.

Addressing concerns about Afrobeats potentially losing its originality due to international collaborations and its increasing global appeal, Ayra Starr emphasized the importance of unity among Afrobeats artists. “As long as Afrobeats artists stick together and continue propelling the music, the genre will continue to thrive,” she stated. She acknowledged the hard work of previous generations of African artists, which has paved the way for global recognition. Starr firmly believes that Afrobeats is not being diluted but is instead becoming mainstream. She highlighted the genre’s unique essence, asserting that no one can replicate it like African artists.

Reflecting on her distinctive sound, Starr attributed it to her unique voice and her willingness to explore various musical styles. “I’ve opened myself up to so many possibilities when it comes to sound because I don’t like to hold myself in a box. I’m a very proud Afrobeats artist, but I am in different spaces and different genres,” she explained. Despite experimenting with different genres, her voice remains a consistent and defining element of her music.

Ayra Starr is set to release her second album, titled ‘The Year I Turned 21,’ on May 31, 2024. She described the album as a “roller coaster of emotion” that blends various genres into a cohesive and euphoric experience. Starr promised listeners a great time filled with positive feelings and greatness.

The upcoming album will feature collaborations with notable artists such as Asake, Seyi Vibez, Giveon, Coco Jones, Aniita, and her brother Milar, showcasing a diverse range of talents and styles.