Ayra Starr Joins Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, Set to Headline Giants of Africa Festival in Rwanda

Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has joined Roc Nation, the international entertainment company founded by Jay-Z, in a major move that’s expected to boost her global presence significantly. While still signed to Mavin Records, the label that discovered her, this partnership will see Roc Nation handle her international management.

The confirmation came when Roc Nation teased Starr’s new single “Hot Body” on social media and updated its website to include her official artist profile. The deal positions Starr in the same league as top global artists, such as Alicia Keys, Megan Thee Stallion, and J Balvin, affording her access to top-tier resources and connections within the global music industry.

By keeping ties with her Nigerian label, Starr represents a rare balance between staying rooted at home and branching out abroad. It’s a strategic partnership that shows Mavin’s growing role in building world-class talent and Roc Nation’s increasing interest in African voices.

Starr’s international expansion will also see her headlining the Giants of Africa Festival 2025, which will run from July 26 to August 2 in Kigali, Rwanda. She’ll perform at the grand closing concert on August 2, alongside fellow Nigerian hitmakers Kizz Daniel and Timaya.

The festival isn’t just about music. It’s a celebration of Africa’s youth, basketball, education, and culture. Organised by the non-profit, Giants of Africa, it will gather 320 young athletes from 20 African countries and attract over 20,000 spectators for a week filled with training camps, mentorship sessions, and live entertainment.

Also joining the festival is NBA superstar Kawhi Leonard, who will be making a more significant appearance. He’ll mentor youth participants, open a brand-new basketball court at St. Ignatius School, and host a basketball clinic for 50 children at Club Rafiki, a community space in one of Kigali’s low-income areas.

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