Grammy-nominated vocalist Ayra Starr has stated that in order to preserve her reputation, she purposefully avoided dating while in school.
The 23-year-old Mavin Records musician clarified that she stayed away from romances since she didn’t want to be called an ex-girlfriend.
In a recent interview with Quenlin Blackwell, Ayra Starr stated that she was constantly self-conscious and wary of the motives of anyone who contacted her.
She claimed that during high school, a lot of guys made an attempt to date her, but she doubted their intentions and was certain they had a hidden agenda.
“Because I didn’t want to be someone’s ex, I didn’t date in high school,” she remarked. “I knew a lot of guys were trying, and I was like, ‘Why are you trying? That means you must have an ulterior motive.’”
The singer also shared her current views on relationships, noting that she now values intelligence in a partner more than physical attractiveness.
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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.
In order to further her international career, Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr announced in November 2025 that she is moving to New York City.
