n a candid and heartfelt interview that has captivated fans across the globe, Nigerian Afrobeats prodigy Ayra Starr has officially confirmed her relocation to New York City, describing the move as a profound personal epiphany and a strategic leap toward amplifying her burgeoning international career. The 23-year-old sensation, born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, revealed during a recent appearance on Hot 93.7 FM's Buck N Regg show in Hartford, Connecticut, that she made the permanent move less than two months ago, settling into a cozy apartment in the heart of Manhattan where she's already begun furnishing her space with essentials like a grand piano, a plush couch, and a comfortable bed.
"I do live in New York now. I officially moved in less than two months ago. I'm always in New York regardless—it reminds me so much of Lagos," Ayra Starr shared with her trademark blend of vulnerability and vibrancy. "There are a lot of Nigerians here, a huge African diaspora. So it feels like home. My spirit has always belonged to New York." The singer, who first hinted at her deep affinity for the city through viral social media posts and electrifying performances, recounted a pivotal "moment of sonder" during a recent stage show that solidified her decision. "I was kind of skeptical about moving, even around that time. But when I remember just being on stage and feeling like, 'Hmm... I really like it here. I might actually move here'—it was like a lightbulb went off. I love it. I know my priorities. I know why I'm here, and I'm here for a good time."
Ayra Starr's relocation marks a significant evolution for the Mavin Records signee, whose meteoric rise since her 2021 breakout single "Bloody Samaritan" has seen her evolve from a Lagos-based sensation to a global force. With over 10 million monthly Spotify listeners, sold-out world tours, and collaborations with icons like Coldplay, Rihanna, and Doja Cat, the move positions her at the epicenter of the music industry. "This is both a personal adventure and a way to grow my international footprint," she explained. "New York has opened doors to fresh collaborations and partnerships—though I can't spill the tea just yet. It's about being where the energy is, where I can push boundaries and connect with creators who see the world like I do." Sources close to her team note that the relocation will streamline her North American touring schedule and media engagements, allowing for deeper immersion in markets hungry for Afrobeats' infectious sound.
Yet, amid the excitement of her new life, Ayra Starr was quick to address the emotional layers of leaving Nigeria behind. "Nigeria will always be home—my heart, my family, my roots," she affirmed, her voice softening as she spoke of balancing transatlantic flights for shows and family visits. "I'm still adjusting to the routine: the freezing cold (I made a whole video in it the other day!), the non-stop hustle, and yes, even the furniture shopping. But it's liberating. I feel inspired every day walking these streets—it's chaotic, colorful, and full of possibility, just like Lagos." Fans have flooded social media with supportive messages, with #AyraInNYC trending worldwide and memes joking about her "quieter" online presence being due to unpacking boxes rather than any hiatus. "She's not leaving us; she's taking us with her," one devotee tweeted, capturing the sentiment of the Mobstarrs—Ayra's fiercely loyal fanbase—who celebrated the news with fan art, relocation playlists, and virtual housewarming parties.
Central to Ayra Starr's ethos is her unwavering commitment to cultural preservation, a theme she wove throughout the interview. "I want to be able to carry my culture wherever I go," she declared passionately. "Because even though I want more than what's given to me, I want to still say, 'This is who I am. This is what I'm taking to the world. This is what I'm showing the world.'" From infusing Yoruba phrases into her lyrics to collaborating with African diaspora artists in Brooklyn's vibrant scenes, Ayra envisions her New York chapter as a bridge rather than a break. "Afrobeats is exploding globally, and being here lets me represent Nigeria authentically—raw, unapologetic, and full of joy. It's not about abandoning home; it's about exporting it."
The timing of her announcement couldn't be more serendipitous, coinciding with the buzz around her recent projects, including a limited-edition Ayra Starr doll line launching in the US, UK, France, and Nigeria, and whispers of a sophomore album in the works. Ayra Starr, discovered by Don Jazzy in 2019 through an Instagram freestyle, has amassed accolades including a BET Award, MTV EMA, and a Billboard Music Award nomination. Her relocation underscores a broader trend among African artists—think Burna Boy's LA base and Tems' global jet-setting—positioning the continent's talent as indispensable to the world's cultural conversation.
As she settles into her new rhythm, Ayra Starr invited fans to join her journey: "Come visit, come create, come feel the magic. New York isn't just a city; it's a state of mind
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