Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has officially shared her list of the “Greatest of All Time” in the afrobeats genre, sparking a lively debate among fans. The “Sabi Girl” hitmaker picked Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Rema as the three artists who have had the most significant impact on the industry and her personal career. This revelation comes as Ayra Starr continues her global rise, representing the new generation of Nigerian talent on the world stage.
Honoring the legends of the sound
Ayra Starr described Wizkid as a pioneer who opened the doors for younger artists to dream of international success on a massive scale. She noted that his consistency and ability to evolve with the times have made him a permanent fixture at the top of the music charts. For her, Wizkid’s influence transcends just the music; it’s about the culture and the global recognition he has brought to the Nigerian identity.
In naming Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr paid tribute to the “Queen of Afrobeats” for her resilience and her role in paving the way for female artists. She emphasized that Tiwa’s success in a male-dominated industry provided her with the confidence to pursue her own musical dreams without fear. The singer believes that every female artist in the genre owes a debt of gratitude to the trail-blazing work of Tiwa Savage over the last decade.
The inclusion of the new generation
Perhaps the most talked-about name on her list was her label mate, Rema, whom she described as a “genius” and a visionary for the sound. Ayra Starr argued that Rema’s “Rave & Roses” era has pushed the boundaries of afrobeats and introduced a new level of creativity to the genre. She believes that Rema is not just a peer but a revolutionary who is shaping the future of global music right before our eyes.
The inclusion of Rema has led to some pushback from fans of other veteran artists who believe that he hasn’t been in the industry long enough to be called a “GOAT.” However, Ayra Starr maintains that impact is not always about time spent, but about the quality and the magnitude of the influence on the listeners. She remains one of Rema’s biggest supporters, often collaborating with him to create some of the most viral moments in Mavin Records history.
The future of the afrobeats movement
As Ayra Starr herself becomes a global icon, her opinion carries significant weight with the younger demographic of music lovers across the world. She noted that the beauty of the current afrobeats scene is that there is room for everyone to shine and contribute their unique flavor. The singer expressed her excitement about the future of the genre and the new heights that Nigerian artists are reaching daily.
Her list reflects the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the Nigerian music industry, where legends and newcomers often share the same stage. Fans have continued to share their own “GOAT” lists on social media, highlighting the deep passion that Nigerians have for their music. For Ayra Starr, these three artists represent the pinnacle of excellence that she strives to achieve in her own record-breaking journey.
