Rising singer, Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, is undoubtedly one of the biggest music revelations of 2021. Signed to Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, two of her songs, Away and Bloody Samaritan have continued to resonate with music lovers.
In an interview with Notion Magazine, Starr maintained that she was not under any pressure to sound or dress in a certain way. Declaring her love for American singer, Rihanna, she said, “Rihanna is my idol. I love her so much. She is my queen and I’ve learnt a lot of things from her. When it comes to music, I just try to enjoy myself as much as possible. It’s not really work (to me). I don’t think about it too much. I dress the way I want to. I make the music I want to make. I am not planning anything per se; I just have fun. With everything I do, I have fun and I enjoy myself.”
On her experience working with Don Jazzy, the singer said, “The thing about Don Jazzy is that he gives me 100 per cent creative freedom. He has helped me to learn so much about myself and music but at the same time, he also lets me do my thing. Every decision I’ve made so far has been mine. I ask for advice but at the same time, Jazzy gives me the ability to choose. That’s the best thing you can give to a creative.”
The singer who was born in Cotonou (Republic of Benin) also recounted her experience growing up in two countries. She said, “Growing up in two countries really helped me to be more open-minded when it comes to diversity and cultures. I try to make my music as global as possible, so different people can understand it. I don’t just try to do one genre. I like to fuse in other genres into afro.”