Ayra Starr’s release of a second album, “The Year I Turned 21 (TYIT21)” marks a significant milestone in her professional career which first saw the light of the day in 2021, following the release of a captivating hit track “Away.”
Her debut hit song was taken off an eponymous debut extended play (EP). It was shortly after its release that the singer shared a snippet of the lead song on Instagram and caught the attention of Don Jazzy, a famous Nigerian music producer and founder of the Mavins Record label to which she is signed till date.
For the singer, the album, “The Year I Turned 21,” released on May 31, 2024, is a tale of growth, an exploration of love, loss and self-discovery as she turns a new leaf – now a full-grown woman full of energy, passion, talent and the drive to live up to her standards especially as she is about to become 22.
The 15-track album is, indeed, a testament to her growth as an artist and an individual, blending her unique sound with themes of love, self-discovery, empowerment and a lingering twinge of regret, in which you doubt whether you’ve done enough before hitting this “landmark occasion.” The album showcases her versatility, moving seamlessly between Afropop, R&B and soul as exemplified in track 12, “1942” and demonstrating a musical alchemy that makes R&B’s flow and Afrobeats’ rhythmic pulse groove in unison.
In the opening verse, the Beninese-Nigerian music star is introduced with an interlude braced with fuji music that swiftly transits to contemporary afrobeat sounds and a mixture of strings. Titled “Birds sing of money,” the introductory song relays a powerful message about ambition and the pursuit of success, combining traditional African rhythms with contemporary upbeat sounds that create an overall feel-good atmosphere for the rest of the album.
She maintains the tempo in the second track “Goodbye,” with support from Asake who drops his usual Yoruba-influenced lyrics in a captivating verse that reinforces Ayra’s resolve to protect her peace and promote enjoyment. Besides, the central message sets the tone for the entire project even as Ayra is undoubtedly ready to fight those that threaten her happiness.
Perhaps a continuation to the storyline, “Commas,” an earlier released single which aided the singer attain commendable heights in the global music scene raises the bar even higher as she reflects on resilience, wealth and materialism, crediting her success to God and radiating a gracious spirituality that floats through the album. These, she wrapped in a danceable rhythm and infectious hook that sets the pace for “Woman Commando,” another captivating up-tempo rendition that focuses on celebrating female strength and independence.
All through the album, Ayra Star redefines her musical prowess, maintaining a high standard amidst uncertainties that arise in the early twenties and youthfulness. She wonders what it feels like to be more than 21 years old in the 8th track (“21”) and dedicates “The Kids are Alright” (14th track) to her late father, opening it up with a voice note from her mother who reminds her of how much she wants her to be happy, spend on herself and enjoy the fruits of her own labour.
“I want you to be happy…Enjoy what you worked for. Don’t save, save, save…because your dad did not really enjoy what he worked for. He was always pleasing people” are the words that echo as the song sets in.
Overall, “The Year I Turned 21” is a soul-blazing body of work made irresistible for a myriad of reasons including guest performances from Giveon on track 9, “Last Heartbreak Song,” Seyi Vibes on “Bad Vibes” (track 10), Mila in “1942” (track 13) as well as Anita and Coco Jones in “Woman Commando” amongst others.
Interestingly, each song tells a story, offering glimpses into her life and thoughts as she serenades through the chaotic thoughts of transiting from adolescence to adulthood. She is highly creative in that she presents these thoughts with a blend of youthful energy and emotional depth. The one-time Grammy-nominated Ayra is indeed a force to reckon with.
