Ayra Starr’s dominance in Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped report marks a milestone for African female artists as she becomes the most-streamed in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya.
Nigerian Afropop sensation Ayra Starr has reached a new career milestone by becoming the most-streamed female artist on Spotify across Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. This achievement, highlighted in Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped report, underscores her growing dominance in the African music scene and her international appeal.
On December 6, 2024, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, revealed Ayra Starr’s dominance in the region. The report not only celebrates her success but also highlights the increasing influence of female artists in an industry historically dominated by men.
In Nigeria, Ayra Starr claimed the top spot among female artists, with Tems, Qing Madi, Billie Eilish, and SZA rounding out the top five. Similarly, in Ghana and Kenya, Ayra Starr led the rankings, sharing the spotlight with international stars like SZA and Rihanna.
Her meteoric rise is fueled by her captivating mix of Afropop and R&B, which resonates deeply with fans worldwide. Her critically acclaimed album The Year I Turned 21 showcased her vocal prowess and birthed several chart-topping hits.
An international tour further boosted her popularity, as she shared stages with global icons like Coldplay and Chris Brown, cementing her status as a key player in the global music scene.
Nigerian Artists Leading Africa’s Music Revolution
Ayra Starr’s triumph reflects the growing global influence of Nigerian music, particularly its vibrant Afrobeats genre. Her success, alongside other Nigerian artists, illustrates how the country’s music scene is shaping cultural narratives in Africa and beyond.
Spotify’s Phiona Okumu emphasized this point:
“Nigerian icons are redefining the music landscape in Sub-Saharan Africa and inspiring audiences worldwide.”
This wave of success highlights how artists like Ayra Starr and Tems are becoming cultural ambassadors for African music on the international stage.
Ayra Starr’s achievements align with Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program, which supports female artists through global playlists and off-platform initiatives. The program has amplified the voices of over 200 female artists across the continent, offering a platform for rising stars and established icons alike.
South African artist Tyla leads the EQUAL Africa list, followed by Ayra Starr, Amaarae, FAVE, Simi, Yemi Alade, and others. These trailblazing women continue to challenge gender norms and elevate African music globally.
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