Nigerian singer Ayra Starr told Apple Music host Nadeska Alexis that her latest album, StarrGirl, marks a new phase of self‑acceptance, freedom and “taking my power back,” as she embraces her own narrative without needing to prove herself.
During the interview, the 22‑year‑old artist traced the evolution of her discography, noting how each record reflects a distinct stage of her life. Her debut, 19 & Dangerous, introduced her as a confident, head‑strong newcomer, while the follow‑up, The Year I Turned 21, captured a period of personal explanation and growth.
“I have always been confident and headstrong but at the same time there are lots of systems that will make one forget that or make one a bit doubtful. My second album was me trying to prove a point … One thing about me is that I am very happy I am able to make music phases and different places where I am at.”
Starr says StarrGirl differs from her earlier work because she is no longer focused on proving a point or explaining herself. Instead, she feels comfortable simply being who she is, despite external pressures that try to “put one in a box.”
“So with this album it literally feels good to be who I am. I am comfortable. There are lots of systems that make one feel one shouldn’t be comfortable… For me it’s just taking my power back and saying I love who I am, sorry.”
Ayra Starr’s progression from a determined young artiste on 19 & Dangerous to a self‑assured creator on StarrGirl underscores the broader dynamism of Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, where emerging talents increasingly shape their own narratives.
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>
