Ayra Starr (Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe) has confirmed that she now resides in New York City. The singer shared the update during a recent appearance on a Buck n Regg video interview, explaining that the city already felt like home long before she finalized her move.
According to Ayra, she actually spent time living in New York prior to settling there permanently a little under two months ago. She revealed that the environment played a major role in shaping the way she views Lagos and her creative process.
A key part of her comfort in the city, she said, is the significant Nigerian community in New York. That familiar cultural presence helps her stay grounded, inspired, and connected while navigating her rapidly growing career.
Why She Chose New York
Ayra explained that her touring schedule and work commitments had her constantly on the move, making New York a practical base for meetings, shows, and collaborations. She added that the city gives her the space to grow artistically, noting that she feels “like a New Yorker in spirit.”
She highlighted that having easy access to studios, fellow artists, and creative opportunities speeds up her projects. Recent Grammy submissions and an intense run of festivals, award shows, and international dates made the transition feel like the natural next step for her team.
The singer also spoke about how performing in New York has helped her refine her live shows, with the city’s fast pace pushing her toward tighter, more polished routines. She credited travel for expanding her musical perspective and influencing how she writes and hears new sounds.
Staying Connected to Home
Despite embracing her new life in the U.S., Ayra emphasized that Lagos remains central to her identity. She said that regardless of where she lives, Lagos continues to shape her art, sound, and worldview.
She mentioned meeting numerous artists during her recent travels—interactions that often lead to spontaneous studio sessions and new music. Ayra thanked her fans for their support throughout her demanding travel schedule, saying their encouragement keeps her steady on the road.
Her team confirmed a more structured touring plan and said that having a New York base makes scheduling and press engagements more efficient.
Following the interview’s release, fans celebrated the news online, while industry observers noted that her move reflects a broader trend among rising African artists who spend extended periods abroad for touring and international exposure.
Ayra wrapped up the conversation by reassuring fans that Lagos will always be part of her, and she teased upcoming performances and new music. The shift to New York, she said, marks another step in her global journey—one city among many that fuel her growth.
