Afrobeats star Ayra Starr joins Coldplay’s Australia tour, delivering powerful performances as one of Africa’s rising global music icons.
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, is reaching new heights in her music career, joining the globally renowned band Coldplay on their Music of the Spheres 2024 World Tour.
The multi-award-winning British band is set to perform across 11 dates in Australia and New Zealand, where Ayra Starr will open their shows alongside Zimbabwean singer Shone and Australian artist Emmanuel Kelly.
Ayra Starr, who has become one of Africa’s leading musical exports, recently performed at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, energising the crowd with her hit singles, including the popular track “Rush” and selections from her sophomore album *The Year I Turned 21*.
The Nigerian singer’s remarkable rise on the global music stage places her among a select group of artists to collaborate with Coldplay, featuring on their track “Good Feeling” from their latest album, *Moon Music*.
She joins the ranks of Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Selena Gomez as one of only four female artists the band has collaborated with in their nearly 30-year career.
Ayra Starr’s career has flourished since her breakthrough with the viral hit “Bloody Samaritan” in 2021. That year, she released her debut album, *19 and Dangerous*, which featured chart-topping tracks like “Away” and “Rush,” solidifying her presence in the Afrobeats genre.
She later teamed up with American singer Kelly Rowland for a remix of “Bloody Samaritan,” further boosting her international appeal.
Her latest album, *The Year I Turned 21*, has brought additional success, featuring collaborations with top artists such as Nigerian stars Asake and Seyi Vibez, American R&B singers Giveon and Coco Jones, and Brazilian hitmaker Anitta.
This year, she achieved her first Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for “Rush,” making her the youngest Nigerian female artist to receive a nomination in that category, though the award ultimately went to South African singer Tyla.
With numerous awards and accolades, Ayra Starr continues to rise as one of Africa’s most promising musical talents. Her global recognition has earned her nominations at the upcoming 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards, set to take place on 10 November in Manchester, where she is contending for Best New Artist and Best Afrobeats.
As she accompanies Coldplay on their tour, Ayra Starr cements her place as an international star, embodying the growing influence of Afrobeats music worldwide.
Her dynamic performances and unique sound are set to captivate audiences across Australia and New Zealand, further establishing her as a prominent figure in global music.