Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has shared candid reflections on life in New York, weeks after relocating from Lagos following a management deal with Roc Nation.
In a recent Substack post titled “I’m not scared, I promise,” the singer opened up about the challenges of living in a new city, describing her apartment as “almost-empty” and the city itself as “a walk-in freezer.”
She admitted that at times, she struggles with regret over her move, explaining that the harsh environment can dampen her motivation. “It’s so cold it feels like the city is actively trying to unalive my motivation. It’s the kind of cold that makes you realize happiness was just a summer hallucination, and I can’t stop the tiny voice at the back of my mind sarcastically saying, ‘Who sent you work?’” Starr wrote.
The Rush crooner reflected on missing out on Nigeria’s festive Detty December celebrations, acknowledging that her move was a rebellious risk that has come with emotional sacrifices.
Ayra Starr also revealed that she is entering her “nobody gets me era,” emphasizing that she no longer feels the need to prove herself to anyone.
Her post offers a rare glimpse into the personal side of life abroad for young Nigerian artists pursuing global careers, highlighting the isolation and challenges behind the glamour of international success.
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