Nigerian Afrobeats star Sarah “Ayra Starr” Aderibigbe has opened up about her recent relocation to New York, saying the move is part of her creative growth and global aspirations.
In a viral interview on Hot 93.7, Hartford, the 23-year-old singer said she has always felt connected to New York and enjoyed performing in the city. She described the bustling U.S. metropolis as a place that reminds her of Lagos and offers a strong African diaspora presence that makes her feel at home.
“I really like it here. I might actually move here… It just felt amazing,” she said, adding that the transition felt natural.
Ayra Starr stressed that the decision is not about turning her back on Nigeria or her heritage. Instead, she said the move is aimed at expanding her sound and strengthening Afrobeats on the global stage.
“I moved to broaden my sound and to make my people proud around the world. I want to carry my culture wherever I go,” she said.
The singer added that Afrobeats is not just a genre but a central part of her identity, and she plans to represent it internationally as her career continues to grow.