Ayra Starr has solidified her place as one of the hottest exports from the Nigerian music industry. She burst onto the scene with her debut album “19 & Dangerous,” released under Mavin Records, and has not slowed down since. Her talent, coupled with the support of a strong record label, has enabled her to stay true to her sound and message while growing her audience. Now, at the age of 21, she presents her latest album, “The Year I Turned 21,” showcasing her growth and maturity.
A Look Back: “19 & Dangerous”
Ayra Starr’s debut album, “19 & Dangerous,” was a lyrical exploration of love, relationships, and heartbreak from the perspective of a young woman navigating her early adulthood. The album painted a vivid picture of a young lady dealing with the complexities of love and relationships. It was a bold and confident introduction to the music scene, highlighting Ayra’s ability to tell relatable stories through her music.
Growth and Maturity: “The Year I Turned 21”
In her new album, “The Year I Turned 21,” Ayra Starr reveals a more mature and nuanced perspective. While she remains young, her understanding of love and life has deepened. She conveys a sense of self-awareness and independence, illustrating that she is not defined by her relationships, environment, or what others say about her.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
1. Birds Sing of Money
The album opens with “Birds Sing of Money,” a track that announces Ayra’s new self to the world. Produced by LDN, this song features a basic RnB beat enriched with the sound of bird tweets, symbolizing freedom and growth. Ayra reflects on her journey, acknowledging the challenges she has faced and overcome with the support of her mother and friends. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining positive energy and resilience, setting the tone for the rest of the album.
2. 21
In “21,” Ayra delves into the experience of being 21 years old. She candidly admits that she is navigating life and love with the naivety and enthusiasm typical of someone her age. The song captures the essence of youthful spontaneity and the desire to live in the moment.
3. (Goodbye) Warm Up (feat. Asake)
Featuring Nigerian artist Asake, “(Goodbye) Warm Up” is a duet that explores a tumultuous relationship. Ayra sings from the perspective of someone who is ready to move on, while Asake portrays the other side, pleading for reconciliation and highlighting the flaws in his love interest’s character. The song presents a compelling dialogue about love and conflict.
4. Commas
“Commas” shifts the focus from romance to financial independence. Ayra Starr declares her ambition to increase her bank account digits through hard work and the right energy. The song is a powerful anthem of self-reliance and determination, underscoring her evolution from a love-stricken young woman to a driven and focused individual.
5. Woman Commando (feat. Coco Jones and Anitta)
Collaborating with Coco Jones and Anitta, Ayra Starr delivers “Woman Commando,” a track that reinforces the themes of independence and empowerment. The song draws inspiration from the 90s action movie character played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, celebrating the strength and autonomy of modern women. It is a testament to girl power and the freedom to choose their paths in life.
6. Lagos Love Story
“Lagos Love Story” is a romantic ode to falling in love in Lagos. Ayra sings about meeting a man who matches her energy and shares her interests, including the more rebellious aspects of life. The song playfully questions the experience of love in Lagos, adding a touch of humor and authenticity.
7. Rhythm and Blues
Following “Lagos Love Story,” “Rhythm and Blues” likens Ayra’s love interest to the music genre, symbolizing the harmony and joy he brings into her life. The song beautifully captures the fluttery feeling of being in love, comparing it to the soothing melodies of RnB.
8. Last Heartbreak Song
“Last Heartbreak Song” is a poignant track about investing emotionally in a relationship only to be left heartbroken. Ayra declares that this will be her last heartbreak song, signifying her decision to prioritize self-love and self-investment moving forward.
Conclusion: A Mature and Cohesive Project
Ayra Starr’s “The Year I Turned 21” is a testament to her growth as an artist and an individual. She has maintained her distinctive sound while enhancing her storytelling and lyrical skills. The album flows seamlessly from one track to another, each song contributing to a larger narrative about love, independence, and personal growth.
Ayra’s collaboration with familiar producers and artists adds to the album’s cohesion, while her improved curating skills ensure a compelling and engaging listening experience. Compared to her co-label mate Rema, whose latest album lacked lyrical depth, Ayra Starr stands out with her thoughtful and soulful music. Songs like “Bad Vibes” featuring Seyi Vibes and “The Kids Are Alright” further showcase her talent, although they couldn’t be discussed in detail here.
Overall, Ayra Starr has created a timeless album that resonates deeply with listeners, proving once again that she is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
