Nigerian singer Sarah Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, widely known as Ayra Starr, has been officially recognized as the number one female Afrobeats artist of the past year by global streaming giant Spotify.
The announcement firmly establishes the “Rush” crooner as one of the most influential voices in Afrobeats, with her impact spreading across Africa and the international music scene.
Spotify ranks Afrobeats queens
Spotify hailed Ayra Starr as “the pop star of Afrobeats,” praising her growing global presence. She leads the platform’s newly released Top 5 Female Afrobeats Artists list, followed by Grammy winner Tems in second place. Libianca, the American-Cameroonian sensation, secured third, while Aya Nakamura of Mali-France and British-Nigerian artist Darkoo rounded out the top five.
Interestingly, South African star Tyla, despite sweeping awards recently, did not make the ranking.
Afrobeats thrives in Latin America
Spotify also revealed the Top 5 Afrobeats Artists in Latin America, where Nigerians once again dominated. Rema led the pack, with Ayra Starr in second place, CKay third, Burna Boy fourth, and Wizkid fifth. The platform emphasized Afrobeats as a “cultural export reshaping the global music scene.”
Ayra Starr and Afrobeats’ global rise
Ayra Starr’s recognition reflects the breakthrough of Afrobeats into mainstream global music. Backed by massive streaming numbers, sold-out international tours, and chart success, she embodies the new generation of Nigerian artists driving the genre beyond Africa.
With stars like Ayra Starr, Tems, Rema, and Burna Boy at the forefront, Afrobeats continues to expand its influence, cementing Nigeria’s role as the heartbeat of the movement.