The lead single "Bloody Samaritan" peaked atop the Top 50 chart, becoming the first solo song by a female artist to reach the number-one position.

Her family moved frequently during her high school years because of her father's business and as a result she had a hard time forming close friendships.

[4] She attended Les Cours Sonou University and received a BA degree in international relations and political science.

As of March 2021, it has reached the same position on Apple Music in 4 other countries, racking up over 15 million streams across Spotify, YouTube and Audio Mack.

The song climbed the Top 50 for several weeks, and, on the chart dated 27 September 2021, it reached the number one spot, making Starr the first female artist to do so with a solo single.

[26] On 4 March 2023, Starr took to social media to announce her music was used as soundtrack for blockbuster American action movie, Creed III.

Starr explained that the album title was inspired by her transition into adulthood, describing it as "not just about the age, but about the growth, self-discovery, and lessons I’ve learned along the way."

Recording sessions took place at Mavin Studios in Lagos and continued into 2024, with contributions from longtime collaborators Louddaaa, London, and Johnny Drille, as well as Grammy-nominated producer Rvssian.

On March 5, 2024, American R&B artist Chris Brown announced that Starr would be one of the opening acts for his 2024 11:11 tour in North America, solidifying her international presence.

[33] The following month, on April 8, 2024, Jamaican record producer Rvssian released the single "Santa," a collaboration with Starr and reggaeton artist Rauw Alejandro.

Each single was accompanied by visually striking music videos directed by leading African creatives, building anticipation for the full album.

The album features collaborations with artists such as Seyi Vibez, Coco Jones, Giveon, Asake, Anitta and Rauw Alejandro.

Tracks like "Woman Commando," featuring Coco Jones and Anitta, highlight Starr’s ability to merge Afrobeat rhythms with Western pop styles.

Tracks like "21" received acclaim for their emotional depth, while "The Kids Are Alright" featured voice notes from Starr’s family, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into her personal life.

Critics highlighted The Year I Turned 21 as a defining moment in Starr's career, with Billboard praising its "universal themes of growth and ambition that resonate across cultures.

Her voice has been described in the media as "silky", "cozy", "delicate", "sturdy", "arresting" and "soulful", with music critics noting the dynamic nature of her range and emotional delivery.

[44] With the release of her debut eponymous EP, some critics felt that her vocal technique bore a striking resemblance to Tems' musical style.

"[6] Karen Chalamilla of The Floor remarked that Ayra Starr "not only solidifies the singer/songwriter as a standout vocalist, but also serves as an acute window into her artistic sensibilities.

Critics praised her genre-fluid approach, with Oris Aigbokhaevbolo of Music In Africa noting that she "can work across genres while not quite sounding like anybody else."

[48] Despite these mixed reviews, the album has received acclaim for its incorporation of Afrobeats, Highlife, Amapiano, and UK-leaning vibes, as noted by Adeayo Adebiyi of Pulse Nigeria.

Kadish Morris of The Guardian pointed out that while the album creates "sultry soundscapes," some tracks feel short, pulling the listener out before fully immersing in the mood.

Songs like "Freedom" and "Desire" highlight her fusion of African rhythms with Western pop, while tracks like "Let Me In" showcase her emotional depth and vocal range.

[44] In her interviews for local and international media, she stated that throughout her childhood, she had a wide range of musical influences, including 2Face Idibia, Wande Coal, Angélique Kidjo, Lijadu Sisters and Tope Alabi and in college, Nicki Minaj, Justin Bieber, Sia and Tiwa Savage.

She credited Shakira as her biggest influence vocally along with Beyoncé, Rihanna and Miley Cyrus: "It was just the power I would feel listening to their music.

Her public image is shaped by a blend of Afropop star power, bold fashion choices, and a deep connection with her audience.

Writing for Pulse Nigeria, Temi Iwalaiye noted that while both artists embrace alluring personalities, Starr’s wardrobe often leans toward youthful, Y2K-inspired trends, characterized by crop tops, micro-skirts, and radiant colors.

[52] With a blend of Alté subculture and worldly flair, Starr has been described by OkayAfrica as creating “a modern take on nostalgic fashion” that connects across borders.

According to BellaNaija, Starr's "fearless approach to fashion" distinguishes her in the Afrobeats scene, mixing her personal tastes with avant-garde designs.

Pulse Nigeria also commented that her "youthful and sultry style was a highlight of the red carpet," reflecting her ongoing experimentation with fashion while staying true to her roots.

[57] This authenticity has helped her build a loyal fanbase, with millions following her on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where she frequently shares behind-the-scenes content and personal reflections.