Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has achieved a major career milestone as her breakout hit “Rush” receives Platinum Certification from the British Phonographic Industry, BPI, signifying over 600,000 units sold through combined sales and streams in the United Kingdom.
This distinction makes Ayra Starr the first Nigerian female artist in history to receive platinum recognition in the UK — a significant feat in a market long dominated by Western pop acts and male-led African exports.
The announcement further cements the 21-year-old’s status as a fast-rising global music star. Originally released in September 2022, “Rush” marked Ayra Starr’s first appearance on the UK Official Top 100 chart, and its infectious rhythm and empowering lyrics quickly made it a viral sensation across continents.
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The Grammy-nominated singer had previously garnered international acclaim when “Rush” earned Diamond Certification in France in 2023. The track has also gone Platinum in Canada and New Zealand, Triple Platinum in Nigeria, and charted in the top ten in countries like France, Lebanon, and South Africa.
The song’s impact helped propel Ayra Starr into the spotlight of the global music scene, earning her a nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, where she competed alongside other African heavyweights.
Signed to Mavin Records, Ayra Starr has become a key figure in the new wave of African artists redefining global Afrobeats. With her unique blend of soulful vocals, bold style, and cross-continental appeal, she continues to break barriers and inspire a new generation of female musicians from Africa.
NAN
