Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has returned to the spotlight with a bold new single titled ‘Gimme Dat’, featuring none other than Grammy-winning global superstar Wizkid.
Released on April 25, 2025, the track marks a thrilling collaboration between two of Africa’s biggest music exports and is already generating excitement across digital platforms. “‘Gimme Dat’ is about love, risk, and rhythm,” Ayra said in a press release.
“It’s me putting my heart on the line and trusting that love won’t disappoint.” The single cleverly samples Wyclef Jean’s classics ‘Diallo’ and ‘911’ featuring Mary J. Blige, weaving nostalgic hip-hop and soul influences into a rich Afrobeats tapestry.
The song draws heavily from the beloved Galala rhythm, a mid-90s Nigerian dancehall style that Ayra Starr reinvents with her signature mid-tempo delivery and vibrant vocal color.
Singing partly in Pidgin English, she expresses vulnerability and devotion: “No let me fall, na you I dey trust,” she croons, capturing the delicate dance of giving love while hoping it’s returned.
Produced by VybeO and Mikababeatz, the track blends percussive bounce with gentle melodies, giving it the balance of danceability and emotion. Ayra added, “I wanted the song to feel warm and deep at the same time—like when you’re dancing but still thinking about someone.”
Wizkid steps in with his unmistakable smooth vocals, echoing Ayra’s declarations with his own verses of reassurance and romantic intent. Their chemistry is effortless, with both artists gliding over the beat in perfect harmony.
“Working with Ayra again was a vibe,” Wizkid said. “She brings this powerful energy that’s soft but strong. The song just flowed.” The collaboration follows their previous joint effort on ‘2 Sugar’, featured on Wizkid’s 2022 album More Love, Less Ego.
This new record shows how much their creative partnership has evolved, as they continue to push the boundaries of African pop.
The release of ‘Gimme Dat’ adds to what’s already been a high-energy year for Ayra Starr, who recently dropped the vibrant music video for her single ‘All The Love’.
She’s been on a roll since the start of 2025, building on her momentum with appearances at major music festivals, international collaborations, and a growing list of accolades.
“This year has been magical,” Ayra shared in a recent interview. “I feel like everything I’ve dreamed of is starting to come true—but I’m still just getting started.”
Ayra’s rise to the top has been nothing short of meteoric. She topped Spotify’s Global Impact List for 2024, a major recognition of her influence on the international music scene.
Her viral feature on Rvssian’s hit ‘Santa’ introduced her to even wider audiences and also found a place on her critically acclaimed sophomore album, ‘The Year I Turned 21.’ “That project was deeply personal,” she said. “It captured a moment of transformation for me—as a woman and as an artist.”
Her sophomore album has been a commercial and critical success, boasting fan-favorite records like ‘Woman Commando’ featuring American singers Coco Jones and Anitta, and the infectious anthem ‘Commas’, which dominated streaming charts.
The album also helped Ayra secure a historic win at the 2025 MOBO Awards, cementing her place among Africa’s elite music stars. “Winning a MOBO meant everything,” she said. “It showed that our sound—our story—is being heard and celebrated worldwide.”
With the release of ‘Gimme Dat’ and an impressive run of achievements behind her, Ayra Starr now sets her sights on the 17th Headies Awards, where she leads the pack with eight nominations, including Album of the Year and Artist of the Year.
As she prepares for another busy stretch of performances, award shows, and collaborations, one thing is clear: Ayra Starr is not just rising—she’s soaring. “We’re building a movement,” she said. “It’s not just music; it’s a new era for African voices, and I’m honored to be part of it.”
