Ayra Starr has been played on NTS over 20 times, featured on 26 episodes and was first played on 27 August 2021.

Ayra Starr is impossible to ignore. Born in Benin Republic, the 20-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 &…