Ayra Starr shines bright as Nigeria’s Spotify Queen

Look whose star is shining as Ayra Starr takes on the Spotify spotlight in Nigeria.

Nigerian singer Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, has claimed the throne as the most streamed Nigerian artist on Spotify globally.

This landmark achievement was celebrated by Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, during a press conference in Lagos, setting the stage for a new era in Nigerian music.

Read More:

Ayra Starr makes history, becomes the first Nigerian female artist on Billboard 200

Ayra Starr opens up on her upcoming album and dad’s death

Burna Boy sets new Spotify Record for opening day streams with “Higher”

Ayra Starr’s meteoric rise is anchored by her hit collaboration with Rauw Alejandro on “Santa” and her solo sensation “Comma,” which clinched the top two slots on Spotify’s global charts. Tems’ “Love Me Jeje” secured third place, further showcasing the unparalleled talent brewing within Nigeria’s vibrant music scene.

Spotify’s 2024 Global Impact List, which ranks artists based on their worldwide reach and streaming success, paints a vivid picture of Nigerian dominance.

Luciano and Omah Lay’s duet “Another Vibe” landed fourth, while the powerhouse trio of 21 Savage, Burna Boy, and Metro Boomin’s “Just Like Me” claimed fifth place. Tyla and Tems’ infectious “No.1” followed closely, securing the sixth spot.

Spotify’s CEO highlighted the significance of these rankings, stating, “Spotify has unveiled its Global Impact List in Nigeria, recognizing the top 30 tracks from Nigeria with the biggest global impact on Spotify over the first half of 2024. These tracks, released between January 1 and June 30, have captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.”

The list reads like a who’s who of Nigerian and global music collaboration. Usher and Pheelz’s “Ruin” took seventh place, followed by Reis B and Tempoe’s “Pretty Girl” at eighth, and TitoM, Yuppe, Burna Boy, and S.N.E’s “Tshwala Bam” at ninth. Rounding out the top ten is Ayra Starr and Giveon’s heartfelt duet “Last Heartbreak Song.”

Beyond the top ten, the global love for Nigerian beats continues with Victony’s “Everything” at 11th, Aya Nakamura and Ayra Starr’s “Hype” at 12th, and Tems and J.Cole’s “Free Fall” at 13th. Each track reflects the genre’s evolution and its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.

“Nigerian music, especially Afrobeats, has captivated global audiences with its infectious rhythms, compelling storytelling, and innovative sound fusions,” Spotify’s CEO remarked.

“Its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries is truly remarkable. At Spotify, we are thrilled to witness and support the continued evolution of this vibrant scene.”