Ayra Starr’s “The Year I Turned 21” Becomes First Nigerian Female Project To Surpass 1 Billion Spotify Streams

Ayra Starr’s sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21, has officially crossed 1 billion streams on Spotify, making history as the first-ever project by a Nigerian female artist to reach the billion-streams milestone on the platform.

Released in May 2024 under Mavin Records, The Year I Turned 21 has solidified Ayra Starr’s position as a global music force. The project, which blends Afrobeats, R&B, and soul, has gained immense popularity worldwide, propelled by hits such as Commas, Last Heartbreak Song featuring Giveon, Bad Vibes with Seyi Vibez, and Woman Commando featuring Coco Jones.

The album’s success comes at a time when Ayra Starr is also making waves in the global music awards circuit. She is the most nominated African artist at the BET Awards 2025, earning nods in categories including Best Female R&B/Pop, Best New Artist, and Best International Act.

Ayra Starr, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, emerged in 2021 with her breakout single Away and a self-titled EP, followed by her debut album 19 & Dangerous. Known for her distinctive voice, bold style, and emotive songwriting, she has quickly become one of Nigeria’s most influential music exports. Her earlier hits like Bloody Samaritan and Rush laid the foundation for her meteoric rise, but The Year I Turned 21 has taken her global acclaim to new heights.

By crossing the 1 billion mark, Ayra joined an elite circle of Nigerian artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Rema, who had achieved the feat. However, she stands out as the first woman from Nigeria to do so with a single project. This landmark achievement reflects her star power and signals a shift in the global music industry’s recognition of African women artists.

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Chinalurumogu Eze

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