Ayra Starr has officially set the stage for her next musical era, announcing that her highly anticipated third studio album, Starr Girl, will be released in July 2026. The Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer revealed the news during a guest appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, where she spoke with confidence about the project and what it represents in her evolving career.
Speaking on the show, the 23-year-old described Starr Girl as a deeply personal body of work shaped by growth, intention, and creative clarity. “My album, ‘Starr Girl’ — that’s me, by the way drops in July,” she said. “I am so proud of this body of work. I put everything into it, and I can’t wait for the world to hear it,” she added, highlighting the emotional investment behind the project.
The upcoming album marks her third studio release, following her debut 19 & Dangerous and her sophomore project The Year I Turned 21. Her debut album featured standout tracks such as Beggie Beggie, Bloody Samaritan, and Lonely, which helped solidify her as one of Afrobeats’ most promising new voices. Her second project, The Year I Turned 21, continued that momentum with songs like Woman Commando, Rhythm and Blues, Commas, and Bad Vibes, showcasing her versatility and artistic growth.
Born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, Ayra Starr first rose to prominence in 2021 with her breakout hit Bloody Samaritan. She was discovered by renowned music executive Don Jazzy and signed to Mavin Records, a move that helped launch her onto the global stage. Since then, she has steadily built an international fanbase and earned critical acclaim across multiple markets.
Her rise has been marked by major accolades, including a historic win at the 2025 MOBO Awards, where she became the first African female artist to win Best International Act, alongside Best African Music Act. She was also nominated for the 2026 Grammy Awards in the Best African Music Performance category, further cementing her status as one of the genre’s leading global figures.
