Ayra Starr discusses her rapid rise from writing altered song lyrics at school to becoming an internationally recognised Nigerian pop artist. Ahead of her album ‘Starrgirl’ and a London appearance at All Points East, she presents herself as ambitious but grounded, emphasising the importance of family, friends and a supportive artistic community.

She debuted with ‘Away’ in 2021, followed by ‘19 & Dangerous’ and ‘The Year I Turned 21’, which helped expand her audience beyond Nigeria. Her forthcoming release is supported by singles including her Rema collaboration ‘Who’s Dat Girl’, while the All Points East bill also includes Jorja Smith, kwn and Odeal. Starr says she values advice from fellow artists and now tries to offer similar support to younger performers.