Lagos, Nigeria | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Beninese-born Nigerian singer Ayra Starr and South Africa’s Tyla have both secured spots on the longlist for BBC Radio 1’s Sound Of 2024. This annual poll, initiated in 2003, identifies the most promising new music talent. The longlist features 10 acts, with Ayra Starr and Tyla among them. The ranked shortlist and winner will be announced on January 5, 2024, on Radio 1.
Ayra Starr, 21, signed to Don Jazzy-led Mavin Records, is one of Nigeria’s most streamed female artists. She was previously tipped by Vevo as an artist on the verge of a global breakthrough in 2023. Ayra Starr also led among female artists in Nigeria in the recent Boomplay Recap 2023 list.
Tyla, 21, known for her global hit ‘Water,’ recently achieved the No 10 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the highest-charting African female solo act of all time. Both Ayra Starr and Tyla are nominees at the upcoming Grammy Awards in the Best African Performance category.
The BBC Sound Of list is compiled with insights from 149 music experts, including DJs, producers, journalists, and artists. Last year’s winners were British girl group FLO. Previous winners include Adele, Sam Smith, and Michael Kiwanuka.
