In January 2022, Shazam, the popular music identification app, highlighted Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr as one of the top five “Artists to Watch.”
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This recognition reflected the growing global interest in her music and her potential to shape Afropop trends worldwide.
Why Did Shazam Recognize Ayra Starr?
Shazam tracks which songs listeners search for the most, identifying artists gaining momentum before they hit mainstream charts. Ayra Starr stood out because her tracks were consistently being Shazamed across multiple countries. The recognition wasn’t random; it was based on data showing that her music was connecting with listeners globally, making her one of the fastest-rising stars from Africa.
Which Song Put Ayra Starr on the Map?
Her breakout single, “Bloody Samaritan,” played a major role in earning her this recognition. Released as the lead single from her debut album 19 & Dangerous, the song quickly became popular in Nigeria and beyond. Its catchy violin melodies, powerful vocals, and infectious Afropop rhythm led it to become the most Shazamed song by a local female artist in Nigeria in 2022.
Related: Ayra Starr Explains Why Wizkid Was Perfect for “Gimme Dat”
Who Else Was Featured on Shazam’s 2022 List?
Ayra Starr was joined by international artists like DannyLux, Lyn Lapid, Sad Night Dynamite, and STAYC. Being listed among these names positioned her as an artist whose music was gaining global traction and suggested her career had strong growth potential.
How Did This Recognition Affect Her Career?
Being named an artist to watch helped Ayra Starr gain wider visibility. It opened doors for international collaborations, boosted streaming numbers, and solidified her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising young talents. Her 2022 single “Rush” also went viral, especially on TikTok, further expanding her fan base.
What Awards Has Ayra Starr Won Since?
Ayra Starr has continued to build on the momentum. In 2025, she won two awards at the MOBO Awards, including Best African Music Act and Best International Act, showing that her influence extends beyond Nigeria.
Why Should Music Fans Follow Ayra Starr?
Ayra Starr represents the fresh sound coming out of Africa today. Her music blends Afropop, R&B, and soul, appealing to a global audience. Fans of catchy melodies, strong vocals, and energetic performances will find her discography worth exploring.
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