In a moment that sent waves across the global music scene, Coldplay’s frontman, Chris Martin, boldly predicted that Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr will soon become the “world’s biggest pop star.”
The declaration came during Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres Tour at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where the Grammy-winning band thrilled fans with a blend of electrifying performances and surprise guests. Among the night’s highlights was the appearance of Ayra Starr, who joined the iconic British group on stage.
Introducing her to a packed stadium audience that included football legend Lionel Messi and his wife Antonela, Chris Martin said:
“This is Ayra Starr from Nigeria. She is going to be the world’s biggest pop star so soon.”
Ayra Starr performed her new single “Hot Body” and her recent collaboration with Coldplay, “Good Feelings,” which has been gaining international traction since its release.
The event marked another significant milestone in the 22-year-old singer’s meteoric rise to global stardom. Signed to Mavin Records and more recently Roc Nation, the label owned by American rap mogul Jay-Z, Ayra Starr has become one of the leading voices of Africa’s new musical era.
Amid the celebration of her achievements, Ayra Starr has also had to fend off recent rumours surrounding her professional life. Reports surfaced alleging that her five-year deal with Roc Nation included a restrictive clause barring her from dating or starting a family throughout the contract’s duration.
Taking to her X (formerly Twitter) account, the “Sability” crooner debunked the claims, stating,
“I’m not aware of any clause like that in my contract.”
The rumor sparked debate among fans, many of whom came to her defense, emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom and personal rights in the music industry.
Since her breakout single “Bloody Samaritan” and debut album 19 & Dangerous, Ayra Starr has continued to soar, making waves not only in Africa but across Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. She recently became the first African female artist to reach 5 million monthly Spotify listeners, and her influence continues to grow with high-profile collaborations and international performances.
With endorsements from legends like Chris Martin and global media spotlight, Ayra Starr is fast becoming the face of African pop music on the world stage.