Africa’s fastest-rising new music star, Ayra Starr, has released her debut album “19 & Dangerous” today! Hailed by NME, The Face and CLASH as one to watch – Ayra Starr has earned her flowers for soulful vocals and raw lyrics that reflect the strength and growing pains of her generation.
“Every song on the album is iconic because I only want to do iconic things and be nothing less than myself in my career. People have tried to put me in a box because of my age and gender but I insist on breaking the norms and stereotypes… This album is a safe space, a recharge zone for anyone who feels defeated and feels like giving up. I want that teenage boy or girl who feels like everything is going wrong in their lives to seek refuge in this album”. – Ayra Starr
2021 is shaping up to be a massive year for Ayra. Since debuting in January, she has amassed over 23 million global streams, powered by her debut self-titled EP and the single ‘Away’, which has racked up over 3.8 million YouTube views. The incredible buzz coming out of Lagos saw Ayra championed as Apple Music’s Africa Rising artist – an exclusive new talent development programme that previously earmarked artists like Tems and Amaarae.
Brimming with audacity and defiance yet delicate vulnerable energy, “19 & Dangerous” is a perfect title for this new chapter in Ayra’s blossoming career. Comprised of 11 unapologetic tracks all written or co-written by Ayra herself, the album is a coming-of-age record seamlessly weaving Afro-pop, R&B, dancehall, trap and alté styles. Perfectly tailor-made to soundtrack your summer.
A coming-of-age album fit for the socially-conscious Gen Z, “19 & Dangerous” also unflinchingly tackles themes of feminism, drug abuse and sexual consent – particularly highlighted on the meditative, soulful ballads ‘Toxic’ and ‘In Between’. Fans will not be left disappointed with the surplus of West African-flavoured rhythmic jams such as ‘Fashion Killa’, ‘Beggie Beggie’ (feat. CKay) and ‘Lonely’.
The album is a musical panacea, doing a lot more than just pleasing body and mind. Stream 19 & Dangerous here, but find out more about Ayra from her Instagram or Twitter.
