Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has become the first woman in 16 years to win the Best African Music Act award at the 2025 MOBO Awards. She also took home the Best International Music Act award at the ceremony held in Newcastle.
Starr beat fellow Nigerian singers Asake and Tems, as well as South Africa’s Tyla, to win the Best African Music Act award. For the Best International Act, she outshone a strong field of contenders, including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, and Latto.
The MOBO Awards, hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, celebrated the best of Black music and culture. The event, which took place at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, brought together music fans and industry professionals to honor excellence in music of Black origin.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Starr thanked her team, family, and supporters. “Okay, this is my first MOBO. And this is the first time I’m winning a MOBO Award—make some noise! I am actually shaking right now. I am actually nervous.”
Starr’s historic win was acknowledged by the official MOBO X account, which posted: “Global star, unstoppable force! @ayrastarr took home Best African Music Act at the #MOBOAwards – repping African music at the highest level!”
The MOBO Awards, founded in 1996 by Kanya King, is an annual British music ceremony that honors excellence in music of Black origin, spanning genres such as hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music. The awards ceremony has become a significant event in the music industry, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Black musicians and artists.
Ayra Starr’s win marks a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her position as one of the leading voices in African music. With her unique sound and style, which blends elements of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop, Starr has been making waves in the music industry.
Starr’s music career began when she was signed to Mavin Records, one of Nigeria’s leading record labels, in 2020. She released her debut single, “Away,” which became a hit and launched her career. Since then, she has released several successful singles and EPs, including “Stability” and “19 & Dangerous.”
Starr’s music is known for its catchy melodies, introspective lyrics, and fusion of traditional Nigerian sounds with modern production techniques. Her unique sound has resonated with fans across Africa and beyond, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim.
Starr’s success is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft. She has been open about her experiences as a young woman in the music industry, using her platform to advocate for women’s empowerment and self-expression.
The MOBO Awards win is the latest in a string of accolades for Starr. She has been nominated for several awards, including the Headies and the SoundCity MVP Awards. Her music has also been featured on several playlists, including Apple Music’s “Africa Now” and Spotify’s “Afrobeats” playlists.
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As Starr continues to make waves in the music industry, her MOBO Awards win serves as a reminder of the power and diversity of African music.
The MOBO Awards ceremony was attended by a host of celebrities, including musicians, actors, and influencers. The event featured performances by several artists, including Starr, who delivered a powerful rendition of her hit single, “Stability.”
The MOBO Awards win is a significant milestone for Starr, marking a new chapter in her career. As she continues to make music and inspire fans around the world, Starr’s legacy as one of Africa’s leading musicians is cemented.
