"Tyit21" by Ayra starr 

Ayra Starr is impossible to ignore. Born in Benin Republic, the 21-year-old was raised between its beach city, Cotonou and the cultural hub of Lagos, Nigeria. This mix of cultures inspires her global approach to music, art and life.
 

She's inspired by the regal earthiness of Angelique Kidjo, Rihanna's feisty confidence, as well as 90s fashion icons.

Ayra describes her sound as Afrosoul, told in an intoxicating voice that evokes a Gen Z queen-in-waiting. Drawing from influences like classic Yoruba and Beninese music & artists like 2Face and Wande Coal, her music speaks for a generation of girls around the world who are finding themselves, united by angst and emojis.

She announced herself to the world on January 22 with an eponymous 5-track EP, which produced the No. 1 single, “Away” and spurred viral moments in the UK as well. But Ayra Starr’s moment will come month’s after after releasing her debut studio album- 19 & Dangerous which had multiple number 1s, unprecedented cosigns, and organic virality

‘Rush’ is one of 2022’s biggest summer hit. Collaborating with multiple artists across the continent and featuring on two bestsellers with her label mates, Ayra continues on her upward trajectory. Already, Ayra Starr is the second most nominated artist at the Headies- Africa’s premier music awards, and has a BET nomination under her belt. With a strong opening statement and millions of fans waiting for her next move, Ayra Starr is giving black girls a new voice. 

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Brimming  with self-confidence and unvarnished introspection, The Year I Turned 21 covers a range of topics, from the fear of failure, newfound love, growing fame and fortune and gender positivity to parental loss, intimacy and mental wellbeing. 
 

Starr blends R&B and Afropop with stylistic borrowings from Latin pop, Jamaican dancehall, Nigerian highlife, gospel and more. “Dem never know I kala,” she sings on “Commas”. The phrase (a mixture of pidgin and Yoruba, which means being underestimated based on looks) shows a keenness for being accessible, a theme explored throughout the album.

Combinations of languages and instrumentals abound, buoyed by disparate samples that include ’70s R&B, a field recording and taped confessions from family members.

Production was provided by notable hitmakers that include LONDON, P2J, P-Prime and Starr’s brother and frequent songwriting collaborator, Milar. The main attraction, however, remains Starr’s singing voice, which has grown along with her stardom.