Nigerian singer and songwriter Ayra Starr has confirmed that she has relocated to New York, saying she officially became a resident of the city less than two months ago.
The artiste made the disclosure during an interview on Hot 93.7FM’s Buck N Regg show, where she spoke about settling into life in the United States and her personal reasons for the move.
When asked directly if she now lives in New York, she replied:
“I do. I moved in officially less than two months ago.”
Although the relocation is recent, she said the city has long felt familiar to her due to frequent visits before the move.
“I’m always in New York regardless. I’ve always been in New York. I’m a New Yorker in my spirit,” she said.
Ayra Starr explained that New York reminds her of Lagos, where she grew up and began her music career. She said the atmosphere, pace of life and cultural mix in the U.S. city made the adjustment easier.
“New York reminds me so much of Lagos,” she said. “There’s a lot of Nigerians. There’s a huge African diaspora here, so it feels like home.”
She added that she had earlier been unsure about relocating permanently but later became convinced after spending more time in the city.
“I was sceptical about moving to New York. I remember being on stage one day and feeling like I might actually move here. I realised that I really liked it here,” she said.
Speaking on her reasons for the move, she indicated that the decision was tied to her career growth and personal goals.
“I know my priorities. I know why I am here. And I am here for a good time,” she said.
The 23-year-old artiste also gave a brief update on her living situation, saying she is still setting up her home.
“I’m still furniture-shopping. I have a couch, I have a bed and I have a grand piano. That’s all I need for now,” she said.
Ayra Starr, whose full name is Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, is a Nigerian singer signed to Mavin Records, founded by music producer Don Jazzy. She rose to national and international attention in 2021 after the release of her hit song “Bloody Samaritan”, which charted in several countries and established her as one of Nigeria’s leading new-generation artistes.
Since then, she has performed at major international festivals and expanded her presence in the United States music market.
