Ayra Starr vs Tems: Who’s the Reigning Afrobeat Queen?
The Nigerian music scene has never been more electric, and two names are leading the charge: Ayra Starr and Tems. Both artists have redefined what it means to be a female powerhouse in the Afrobeats genre. With their unique sounds, bold fashion, and international acclaim, fans can't help but ask: Who is the true queen of Afrobeats?
Let’s dive into their rise, achievements, styles, and global impact to find out who truly wears the crown in 2025.
The Rise of Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr burst onto the scene in 2021 with her self-titled debut EP under Mavin Records. Her hit single "Away" set the internet on fire and immediately positioned her as a rising star. Her debut album, "19 & Dangerous," featuring bangers like "Bloody Samaritan" and "Fashion Killer," confirmed her status as a Gen Z anthem queen. With her bold voice and genre-bending sound, she quickly built a loyal fanbase across Nigeria and beyond.
The Journey of Tems
Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, made her breakthrough with the emotionally rich single "Try Me" in 2019. But it was her collaboration with Wizkid on "Essence" that skyrocketed her into international fame. The Grammy-nominated track became a global Afrobeats anthem, topping charts and breaking records. Her sultry vocals, introspective lyrics, and chill R&B-Afrobeats fusion have earned her a cult following.
Music Style & Artistry
Ayra Starr thrives on high-energy, confidence-boosting tracks. Her music is vibrant, fearless, and full of youthful zest. She mixes Afropop, soul, and R&B with modern slang and Gen Z culture. She sings about independence, ambition, heartbreak, and empowerment.
Tems, on the other hand, brings a more mellow and emotional vibe. Her sound is deep, soulful, and raw. With minimalist production and rich vocals, Tems delivers thought-provoking lyrics on self-worth, vulnerability, and strength. Her songs often feel like a journey through the soul.
Global Recognition
Tems has achieved massive international success. After "Essence," she was featured on Drake’s "Fountains" and Future’s "Wait for U," the latter earning her a Grammy Award. She’s performed at Coachella, BET Awards, and other major global events. Tems also worked on the soundtrack for Marvel's Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Ayra Starr is not far behind. With over 300 million cumulative streams and a growing global audience, she has performed in Europe, the U.S., and several African countries. In 2023, Ayra Starr became the first female Nigerian artist to reach 100 million Spotify streams on a single song. Her music is regularly featured on top playlists, and she’s become a Gen Z icon across continents.
Fashion & Cultural Impact
When it comes to fashion, Ayra Starr owns the stage. Her style is edgy, colorful, and unapologetically bold. From mini skirts to platform boots and funky accessories, she represents fearless Gen Z fashion. She’s known for embracing her individuality and breaking style norms.
Tems is more minimalist and soulful in her style. She prefers earthy tones, oversized fits, and ethereal aesthetics. Her fashion is calm yet powerful, mirroring her musical tone. Both artists have graced major fashion events and magazine covers, becoming trendsetters in their own right.
Fanbase & Online Presence
Ayra Starr has a massive Gen Z following on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Her visuals, lyrics, and personality resonate deeply with young fans. She trends frequently and has a very engaging online persona.
Tems, while less flashy, has a devoted global fanbase. She connects more through her music and spiritual essence than viral content. Her mystique and authenticity have created a cult-like fan devotion that transcends trends.
Awards & Accolades
Tems:
- Grammy Award Winner (Best Melodic Rap Performance)
- BET Awards Winner
- MOBO Awards Winner
- Billboard Hot 100 entries
Ayra Starr:
- Headies Awards Winner
- MTV Africa Music Awards Nominee
- Spotify Streaming Milestones
- Apple Music Up Next Artist
Collaborations & Co-Signs
Tems has worked with international megastars like Drake, Beyoncé (on the Renaissance album), and Future. Her collaborations have exposed her to a broader, mainstream global audience.
Ayra Starr has collaborated with artists like Rema, CKay, and Kelly Rowland, gradually building her international presence. While her collaborations are more regional, they are deeply impactful and showcase her versatility.
Who’s the Reigning Queen?
While Tems currently holds more global acclaim and has a Grammy to her name, Ayra Starr is quickly closing the gap with youth appeal, consistency, and relatable content. Tems reigns with maturity and a soulful legacy in the making, while Ayra brings fire, fashion, and fearless energy.
It’s not a rivalry—it’s a celebration of two queens representing different flavors of Nigerian excellence. And in the world of Afrobeats, there’s more than enough room for both to shine.
Conclusion: Two Queens, One Throne?
Ayra Starr and Tems are both rewriting the narrative for African female artists. Whether you’re vibing to Ayra’s high-energy tracks or getting lost in the soul of Tems, one thing is clear: the future of Afrobeats is female.
So, who’s the reigning queen? The answer depends on your vibe. But one thing is for sure — Nigeria is winning, and the world is listening.
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