In a recent revelation, Nigerian songstress Ayra Starr, also known as Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, has shed light on the genesis of her stage name, attributing part of the inspiration to her record label magnate, Don Jazzy.
During a special Christmas interview with Arise TV, the Mavin Records signee disclosed that the moniker “Ayra” was a result of her desire for people to pronounce the Yoruba name “Ira” as “Aira.” She expressed, “The only way they can pronounce it is by spelling it ‘A Y R A.’ So, I was thinking about it and something just told me to go ‘A Y R A.’ And when I did, everything just came together: The meaning of the name, it felt like God was speaking to me.”
Furthermore, she elucidated on the suffix “Starr,” elucidating that it was the brainchild of Don Jazzy. Prior to joining Mavin Records, the songstress was recognized as “Oyin,” a derivative of her first name, Oyinkansola.
Ayra explained, “And ‘Starr’ was Don Jazzy’s idea. Ayra means ‘woke and open-minded.’ And that’s what I want. I want to be honored and respected.”
This candid insight into the construction of her stage persona not only showcases Ayra Starr’s introspective nature but also embodies the collaborative synergy between emerging artists and industry giants like Don Jazzy.
