Ayra Starr is Headed for Pop-Stardom : Headline Show Review [@ayrastarr]

If there’s one thing that Ayra Starr’s sold out headline show solidified it’s that she certainly is the embodiment of her name – a star.

The Mavin Records protege shutdown Koko on Monday 13th November bringing together some of Nigeria’s most promising artists and sounds.

Warming the crowd up for what would become an outstanding show – opening acts Lifesize Teddy and Brazy graced the stage. Teddy’s cute and sweet demeanour stepped out in a pleated mini skirt and leg warmers very reminiscent of the Y2K Gen-Z audience who filled the room from top to bottom. But the attitude and effortless yet playful confidence she oozed whilst performing afro-pop infused hits like ‘Hypnotic’ and ‘John Wick’ was refreshing. Later, Nigerian dance music princess Brazy took over with a set reminiscent of a club night filled with playful lyricism, house beats and choreography.

As the lights dimmed and the mixes of DJ K.O began to fade, the voice of Eartha Kitt reminded us to ‘Listen to ourselves’ and ‘not clutter our lives with insignificant things’ – a signifier that the show was about to start. Slowly, yet assuredly Ayra strutted out in a satin lilac two piece followed by two dancers adorned in gems from head to waist as screams of adoration filled the room. This prowess, this self assured confidence and star quality were all setting the tone for the remainder of the night.

She breezed through fan favourite hits Fashion Killer, Ase and Away showcasing her unique tonality – buttery yet slightly raspy.

My personal highlight was when Ayra took to the balconies of Koko adorneed by a spotlight for a beautiful acapella rendition of ‘Crazy’ by Patsy Cline which she stated makes her ‘feel like I can do anything’. Ayra’s performance is stellar; from her stage presence, to her audience interaction she takes the stage in her stride, commanding everyones attention with a mixture of beautiful vocals, sharp choreography and vulnerable anecdotes.

To close out the show Leigh-Anne Pinnock joined her on stage for a performance of her song in which Ayra is featured ‘My Love’. It was a beautiful way to close the night – the chemistry between the two was electric as expected.

Again, Ayra Star truly is the embodiment of her name – a true new age pop-star and if her show is any example of where the rest of her career is to go, her future is extremely bright. Listen to her latest single below:

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