Ayra Starr has released her third album, ‘Starrgirl’, describing it as the product of greater creative freedom after moving to New York and learning to trust her instincts. The Nigerian Afrobeats star says the record expands beyond the sound that made her famous while retaining Afrobeats at its core, reflecting a pivotal moment as she broadens her music and acting career.

The 24-year-old made the album while recovering from undisclosed surgery and balancing intensive promotion, including listening parties and a ‘Today’ appearance. ‘Starrgirl’ features artists including Zayn Malik, Wizkid, Rema, Leon Thomas and Danny Ocean, while its Afrofuturist cover incorporates a traditional Yoruba gele head wrap, underscoring her intention to evolve without abandoning her Nigerian identity.