Afrobeats sensation, Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has revealed why she recently took up residence in New York, describing the city as a natural fit for her lifestyle and music journey.
The 23-year-old spoke in a viral clip from her interview on Hot 93.7, Hartford, where she disclosed that living in New York had long been a personal dream.
She said the city’s rhythm, diversity and strong African presence made the transition seamless.
“Yes, I live in New York. I moved in not less than two months ago, officially, but I’m always in New York regardless. I’ve always been in New York. I’m a New Yorker in my spirit; I feel it,” she said.
She noted that the city’s energy evokes memories of Lagos, adding that its large Nigerian and African population gives her a sense of familiarity.
“New York reminds me so much of Lagos. And there are lots of Nigerians here. There’s a huge African diaspora here. So it feels like home,” she added.
Ayra Starr recalled that a moment on stage during a performance in New York convinced her to make the move permanent.
“I remember just being on stage and feeling like, hmm… I really like it here. I might actually move here. It was like a moment of sonder. I was just like, hmm… I love it.”
She stressed that despite relocating, her cultural identity and music foundation remain intact.
“At least I know my priorities. I know why I’m here. My dream is to be an artist — an artist overall, above every genre. Afrobeats will always be my… I’m Afrobeats, if I may say so. It’s not just a genre to me. It’s me,” she said.
The singer added that the move is part of her effort to grow creatively and represent Nigeria on the global stage.
“I moved in, definitely, to broaden my sound. And just to make my people proud around the world. I want to be able to carry my culture wherever I go… This is who I am, and this is what I’m taking to the world.”
