Mavin Records sensation Ayra Starr has etched her name in the history books as the first Nigerian female artist to cross one billion cumulative views on YouTube. The feat places the 21-year-old Afrobeats star among an elite group of Nigerian music heavyweights, including Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Rema, and CKay, who have previously reached the milestone.
The record was driven largely by the explosive success of her Grammy-nominated single “Rush”, which alone accounts for more than 450 million views. Released in 2022, the song catapulted Ayra Starr to global prominence and has since earned multiple certifications, including Platinum in the UK, Diamond in France, and multi-Platinum status in Nigeria, Canada, and New Zealand.
Beyond its streaming success, Rush also secured Ayra her first solo entry into the UK Official Top 100 chart, underscoring her growing influence on the international stage. The track’s viral momentum has been amplified by a loyal Gen Z fanbase and savvy digital strategies from her label, Mavin Records.
Since launching her career with a self-titled EP in 2021, Ayra Starr—real name Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe—has carved out a unique space within the Afrobeats genre. Her sound blends contemporary African rhythms with pop, soul, and R&B influences, appealing to both domestic and international audiences. She now ranks among Africa’s most followed artists on Spotify, with over 4.8 million followers as of May 2025.
Her rise continues to be supported by a string of chart-topping releases and high-profile collaborations. One of the latest is “Gimme Dat” featuring Wizkid, released in April 2025. The track, which samples Wyclef Jean’s classics “Diallo” and “911,” has quickly gained traction across streaming platforms and radio charts.
Ayra Starr’s accolades are also piling up. At this year’s MOBO Awards, she walked away with two wins, reinforcing her standing as a leading voice in African music. She also took home Best R&B Single at the 17th Headies Awards for “Last Heartbreak Song” featuring Giveon.
Her latest achievement on YouTube reflects more than just streaming numbers. It highlights the shifting dynamics of African music, where digital virality, fan-driven engagement, and global platforms are creating new pathways to success—especially for female artists who have historically been underrepresented.
Crossing the billion-view threshold is not just a personal win for Ayra Starr—it’s a cultural milestone that signals the global viability of Nigerian women in music. Her success story serves as inspiration for a new generation of artists looking to break into the global scene through digital-first platforms.
With each record shattered, Ayra continues to redefine what’s possible in African music. She stands not only as a chart-topping artist but also as a symbol of the evolving power of Afrobeats—and the women who are now taking center stage in its next chapter.
