Ayra Starr, the Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer, joins Coldplay on their tour across Australia and New Zealand. As part of Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres 2024 World Tour, Ayra Starr opens for the multi-award-winning band alongside Zimbabwean singer Shone and Australian singer Emmanuel Kelly, a former X Factor contestant.
The tour’s Australia and New Zealand leg, featuring 11 dates, has provided Starr with an expansive platform to connect with new audiences and share her music with fans around the world.
At a recent concert held at the Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Ayra Starr captivated the crowd with performances of her hit single “Rush” and other popular tracks from her sophomore album The Year I Turned 21.
Her energetic and soulful performance left a lasting impression on concertgoers, showcasing her musical prowess and confirming her status as one of Africa’s most prominent music exports. Her increasing influence outside of Africa highlights her growing presence on the international music scene.
In addition to her role as Coldplay’s tour opener, Ayra Starr is also featured on Coldplay’s latest album Moon Music, appearing on the track “Good Feeling.” This collaboration is significant, as it places Starr among a select few female artists who have worked with Coldplay, following in the footsteps of iconic singers like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Selena Gomez.
Such a collaboration marks an important milestone for Ayra Starr and speaks to her distinctive talent and rising status within the global music industry.
2024 has been a banner year for Ayra Starr, who became the first Nigerian female lead artist to earn a Grammy nomination. This recognition underscores her impact and solidifies her place in the international music landscape. Her recent album, The Year I Turned 21, has enjoyed commercial success and features a remarkable lineup of guest artists, including Nigerian stars Asake and Seyi Vibez, American R&B talents Giveon and Coco Jones, and Brazilian singer Anitta. These collaborations have broadened her musical reach, appealing to diverse audiences and further enhancing her global appeal.
In addition to her Grammy nod, Ayra Starr has also been nominated for the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (MTV EMAs) in the categories of Best New Artist and Best Afrobeats. These nominations reflect her expanding fanbase and the growing recognition of her artistry on an international scale.
The MTV EMAs, set to take place on November 10 in Manchester, present another opportunity for Starr to potentially add to her accolades and reach even more listeners worldwide.
Ayra Starr’s collaborations, accolades, and her role in Coldplay’s tour affirm her status as a significant figure in contemporary music, particularly for African artists aspiring to global success.
Her achievements are not only a testament to her personal talent but also highlight the increasing global appreciation for Afrobeats and African music as a whole. With each performance and award nomination, Starr is building a legacy that strengthens Africa’s presence on the global music stage.
