Ayra Starr is no stranger to making waves. Since bursting onto the scene in 2021 with her hit “Bloody Samaritan,” she’s established herself as a leading voice in Afrobeats, captivating audiences with her genre-bending sound and fierce lyricism. Her latest single, “Commas,” is another powerful addition to her repertoire, marking a bold evolution in her artistry and self-assured message.
“Commas,” produced by London-based collective Mavin, opens with a deceptively mellow guitar riff before exploding into a vibrant Afrobeats soundscape. Ayra’s vocals glide effortlessly, weaving storytelling verses with a catchy, self-assured chorus. The lyrics paint a picture of personal growth, financial independence, and refusing to be defined by others’ expectations. Lines like “Used to dream in commas, now I count it in commas” and “No more handouts, baby, I got my own comma” showcase her journey from aspiring artist to self-made success story.
But “Commas” is more than just a flex anthem. It’s a celebration of individuality and empowerment, particularly for young women navigating a world often filled with limitations. Ayra challenges societal norms, singing about financial independence and the freedom to make her own choices. She refuses to be confined to stereotypical boxes, declaring “I’m not your regular, I’m not your typical.”
“Commas” is a significant step forward for Ayra Starr, showcasing her artistic growth and solidifying her status as a powerful voice in the Afrobeats scene. It’s a song that resonates not just with fans of the genre, but with anyone who has ever fought for their individuality and strived to achieve their dreams.
Fun Fact
Did you know Ayra Starr actually holds a degree in International Relations and Political Science? While music always held a strong calling for her, she also pursued formal education, earning the degree in 2021 before fully devoting herself to her artistic career. It’s a unique and interesting fact that demonstrates her multi-faceted personality and dedication to pursuing both academic and artistic aspirations.
About the Artist
Ayra Starr, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe in 2002, isn’t your typical pop star. Her journey began in Cotonou, Benin, where she grew up surrounded by music, nurtured by a family of singers. But her path to stardom wouldn’t come easy.
Early on, Ayra showcased her artistic spirit, dabbling in fashion modeling and expressing herself through songwriting. In 2018, she began uploading song covers on Instagram, catching the attention of Quove Model Management, launching her modeling career. Still, music pulsed through her veins.
Her dedication resonated. In 2019, her original song “Damage” landed on the ears of industry heavyweight Don Jazzy, who immediately signed her to his Mavin Records imprint. This marked a turning point, transforming Ayra’s bedroom recordings into studio magic.
