Nigerian Afrobeats musician Ayra Starr has talked about how meeting billionaire diva Rihanna in Barbados in 2024 boosted her self-esteem.
The 23-year-old revealed in a recent interview with W Magazine that she was experiencing poor self-esteem at the time of the encounter, but Rihanna’s charisma enabled her to rediscover who she was.
“Sitting with her while we watched my music videos” was Starr’s favourite memory of Rihanna. It seemed so surreal that she was highlighting her fave portions.
“At that time I was struggling with my self-image and confidence, so that moment meant everything.”
She added that she felt “God had sent” Rihanna to her,” describing their first meeting as “one of the most amazing feelings.”
Ayra Starr has been very vocal about her admiration for Rihanna. She has repeatedly mentioned her as her biggest inspiration and role model.
During their meeting in 2024, Rihanna stated that she was open to collaborating with Ayra Starr and Tems.
ALSO READ: Ayra Starr Confirms Relocation to New York
In order to further her international career, Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr announced in November 2025 that she is moving to New York City.
The 23-year-old musician, who has been living in the American metropolis for less than two months, cites the city’s big African community and familiar atmosphere as major draws.
In a recent video interview, she disclosed the news, saying that the city’s similarities to her homeland of Lagos made the transfer easy.
According to her, New York reminds her of Lagos, with its similar energy, speed, and cultural rhythm, admitting to finding comfort in the city’s African diaspora community.
She also noted that there’s a huge Nigerian presence, making it feel like home.
“New York reminds me so much of Lagos. So it feels like home. There are a lot of Nigerians here. There’s a huge African diaspora here, so it feels like home,” she said
