The Year I Turned 21

Last updated

The Year I Turned 21
Ayra Starr - The Year I Turned 21.png
Studio album by
Released31 May 2024 (2024-05-31)
Genre
Length40:24
Label Mavin
Producer
Ayra Starr chronology
19 & Dangerous
(2021)
The Year I Turned 21
(2024)
Singles from The Year I Turned 21
  1. "Rhythm & Blues"
    Released: 13 September 2023
  2. "Commas"
    Released: 2 February 2024
  3. "Santa"
    Released: 4 April 2024

The Year I Turn 21 is the second studio album by Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr. It was released through Mavin Records on 31 May 2024. The album contains guest appearances from Asake, Anitta, Coco Jones, Giveon, Seyi Vibez, Rvssian, and Rauw Alejandro. It serves as the follow-up to her previous album, 19 & Dangerous (2021). The album debuted at number one in Nigeria.

Contents

Background and release

Ayra Starr announced the title of her second studio album, "The Year I Turned 21", on 2 May 2024, along with its cover art and tracklist. [1] [2] The album was conceived during a period of personal growth and introspection. [3] In an interview with Billboard , Starr revealed that the album was inspired by her experiences navigating adulthood, love, and self-discovery. [4] The album was recorded over several months in 2022 and 2023, with production credits from notable producers such as London, Johnny Drille, and P.Priime. [5] Starr drew inspiration from Afrobeats, R&B, and pop to create a unique sound reflecting her artistic evolution. [6] The title "The Year I Turned 21" holds personal significance, as Starr turned 21 during the recording process. [7] In an interview with Uproxx , she explained that the title represents a milestone birthday that marked a turning point in her life and career. [8] The album was released on 31 May 2024 through Mavin Records. [9]

Singles

The single "Rhythm and Blues" was released on 13 September 2023 as the first single from the album. [10] Later, "Commas" was released on February 2, 2024, as the second single. [11]

Critical reception

Professional ratings
Review scores
SourceRating
Clash 8/10 [12]
The Guardian Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [13]
NME Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svg [14]
The Native 8.1/10 [15]
Pitchfork 7.6/10 [16]
Pulse Nigeria9.1/10 [17]

Tamil Makinde of NME stated that "Starr confidently blends genres, segueing from romantic deep cuts to emotional odes about her roots, produced by the likes of Louddaaa. She weaves a narrative thread through a collage of sounds with adept storytelling. In tracks like "Lagos Love Story", she flirts with reckless romance, while in "Last Heartbreak Song", an R&B-powered duet with Giveon, she finds the strength to move on. In "The Kids Are Alright", she weaves intergenerational conversations, and each track radiates a clear vision". [14] Kadish Morris of The Guardian gave the album 4/5 stars, praising Starr's vocal range and experimentation with various sounds and cadences, stating: "Here, she puts that big voice to work. [13] Adeayo Adebiyi of Pulse Nigeria gave the album a 9.1/10 rating, stating that "The Year I Turned 21" is an accomplished sophomore effort that excels in all aspects, showcasing Ayra Starr's confidence and superior talent. [17]

Track listing

The Year I Turned 21 track listing
No.TitleLyricsMusicProducer(s)Length
1."Bird Sing of Money" Oyinkansola Sarah Aderigbigbe
2:42
2."Goodbye (Warm Up)" (with Asake)
P2J 2:43
3."Commas"
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Prince Omoferi
2:37
4."Woman Commando" (with Anitta and Coco Jones)
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Andy Bauza
  • Jones
  • De Macedo Machado
  • Chukwudubem
  • Clinton
Ragee3:28
5."Control"
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Emmanuel Isong
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Isong
  • Tanner
  • Hunter
  • London
  • Jay Keys
  • AOD
2:33
6."Lagos Love Story"S. Aderigbigbe
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Hunter
  • London
  • Off n Out [a]
2:35
7."Rhythm & Blues"O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Ayomikun Emmanuel Aro
  • Uzoma Samuel Onyenucheya
Sparrq2:23
8."21"
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Bankole
  • L. Thomas
  • Tanner
  • Mike Hector
  • Tomi Mikael Mannonen
  • Fwdslxsh
  • Kill September
  • Hector
2:22
9."Last Heartbreak Song" (with Giveon)
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Evans
  • Omoferi
  • Kehinde Alabi
Louddaaa2:29
10."Bad Vibes" (with Seyi Vibez)
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Michael
  • Tanner
  • Balogun
  • Ajayi Olusegun Michael
  • Mystro Sugar
  • Ikenna Ohaeri [a]
2:48
11."Orun"
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Omoferi
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Kehinde Alabi
  • Omoferi
  • Louddaaa
  • Godwyn Guitar [a]
2:37
12."Jazzy's Song"
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Michael Collins Ajereh
  • Oluwadamilare Aderigbigbe
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Ajereh
  • Chukwudubem
  • O. Aderigbigbe
  • Oredope Peace
  • Ekpe
P.Priime 2:14
13."1942" (with Milar)
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • O. Aderigbigbe
Johnny Drille 2:26
14."The Kids Are Alright"S. Aderigbigbe
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Remy Jones
Remdolla3:14
15."Santa" (with Rauw Alejandro and Rvssian)
  • O. S. Aderigbigbe
  • Jorge PizarroKelvin Thomas
  • Kilian Johnston
  • Lucas Sikidila
  • Nathalia Marshall
  • Chukwudubem
  • O. Aderigbigbe
  • Rangel
  • Alejandro Ocasio
  • Richard McClashie
  • Rvssian
  • Richard "M.R.I." McClashie
  • Kenobi
  • El Zorro
3:13
Total length:40:24

Note

Personnel

Accolades

Awards and nominations for The Year I Turned 21
OrganizationYearCategoryResultRef.
African Entertainment Awards USA2024Album of the YearNominated [18]

Charts

Chart performance for The Year I Turned 21
Chart (2024)Peak
position
Canadian Albums ( Billboard ) [19] 89
French Albums (SNEP) [20] 72
Nigerian Albums (TurnTable) [21] 1
UK Albums (OCC) [22] 80
US Billboard 200 [23] 195
US World Albums ( Billboard ) [24] 4

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mavin Records</span> Nigerian record label

Mavin Records is a Nigerian corporation and record label founded by record producer and recording artist Don Jazzy on 8 May 2012. The label's inception came to fruition following the closure of Mo' Hits Records, a record label Don Jazzy and D'banj. The label is home to recording artists such as Rema, Ayra Starr, Crayon, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe, Magixx, Boy Spyce, Bayanni, and Lifesize Teddy. It also houses producers such as Don Jazzy, Altims, London, Baby Fresh, and Andre Vibez. In 2014, DJ Big N became the label's official disc jockey. Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal, Reekado Banks and Iyanya were all formerly signed to the label. On 8 May 2012, the label released its compilation album Solar Plexus. In January 2019, Mavin Records secured a multi-million dollars investment from Kupanda Holdings, a subsidiary of Kupanda Capital and TPG Growth.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Tiwa Savage discography</span> Nigerian singer discography

The discography of Tiwa Savage, a Nigerian singer consists of three studio albums, one compilation album, 23 singles, ten music videos, four promotional single, five guest appearances, and one cameo appearance.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Johnny Drille</span> Nigerian musician (born 1990)

John Ighodaro, professionally known as Johnny Drille, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He first came into the spotlight when he released a cover of "Awww" by Di'Ja. He is currently signed to Mavin Records.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Rema (musician)</span> Nigerian singer and songwriter (born 2000)

Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and rapper. He gained initial recognition with his 2019 song "Dumebi". That same year, he signed with D'Prince's record label, Jonzing World. He achieved international recognition with his 2022 single "Calm Down", which spawned a remix with American singer Selena Gomez that peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also led Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart for a record-setting 58 weeks.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ayra Starr</span> Nigerian singer (born 2002)

Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known professionally as Ayra Starr, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. Starr achieved mainstream international recognition in 2022, with the release of her song "Rush". The song charted in several territories, including Switzerland, Ireland and the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 24. It earned Starr a nomination at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for Best African Music Performance.

<i>Ayra Starr</i> (EP) EP by Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr is the eponymous debut extended play by Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr. It was released on 22 January 2021 through Mavin Records.

"Away" is a song recorded by Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr for her eponymous debut EP. It is the first song on the EP, released in January 2021 by Mavin Records. It was written by Ayra Starr and her brother Dami and was produced by Louddaaa.

<i>19 & Dangerous</i> 2021 studio album by Ayra Starr

19 & Dangerous is the debut studio album by Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr. It was released on 6 August 2021 by Mavin Records and Platoon, less than seven months after the singer's self-titled debut EP. 19 & Dangerous was a concept album following a Gen Z girl transitioning from adolescence into early adulthood with growing confidence, artistic zeal, sentimentality and empathy. Ayra Starr worked with producers London, Andre Vibez, Louddaaa and Don Jazzy, the latter two of whom also contributed production to her previous record. In addition to reuniting with her preexisting musical partners, she also collaborated with several new writers and artists including Fousheé and CKay.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bloody Samaritan</span> 2021 single by Ayra starr

"Bloody Samaritan" is a song recorded by Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr. It was released on 30 July 2021, as the lead single from her debut studio album, 19 & Dangerous (2021), through Mavin Records. Prior to its arrival on streaming platforms, the song premiered on BBC Radio 1Xtra. Written by Ayra Starr and produced by London, it is an Afropop song with empowering lyrics about pursuing one's dreams despite detractors and other people's negative opinions.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">CKay</span> Nigerian singer and record producer (born 1995)

Chukwuka Chukwuma Ekweani, better known by his stage name Ckay, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer signed to Boyfriend Music, Warner Music Africa and Atlantic Records. He was formerly signed to Chocolate City, a member of Warner Music Group independent label services ADA. His international hit single "Love Nwantiti", also known as "Love Nwantiti ", was released in 2019 by Chocolate City.

<i>Before We Fall Asleep</i> 2021 studio album by Johnny Drille

Before We Fall Asleep is the debut studio album by Nigerian singer-songwriter Johnny Drille. It was released on 3rd September 2021, through Mavin Records. Self produced by Johnny Drille with additional productions from Wilson Muzik, London, Altims, and Fink. The album was exclusively produced by Don Jazzywith A&R direction from Rima Tahini. The album features Don Jazzy, Styl-Plus, Ladipoe, Ayra Starr, Chylde, Lagos Community Choir, Cillsoul, Kwittee, with co-writers including Ayra brother credited as Milar, and Cill Soul.

"Love Don't Cost a Dime" is a song by Nigerian singer and songwriter Magixx, from his eponymous debut EP Magixx. It was officially released as a single on 24 September 2021 by Mavin Records. The song was written by Magixx, and produced by Lomon. A new version of the song titled "Love Don't Cost a Dime (Re-Up)" featuring Nigerian singer Ayra Starr was released as a single in 2022.

Alexander Adelabu, professionally known as Magixx, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. In 2021, he was signed to Mavin Records. He is known for a distinctly hybrid approach fusing trap, dancehall, Afropop and R&B. In 2019, Magixx initiated his rise to fame when he released 'Problem,' a succinct blend of Afropop and Afro R&B, showcasing his evolving musical exploration. The track quickly seized the spotlight within Nigeria's music elite, drawing admiration from notable figures like Mayorkun, M.I, Zlatan Ibile, and the influential Don Jazzy of Mavin Records. This attention culminated in his eventual signing with Mavin Records.

Charles Chibueze Chukwu, professionally known as Crayon, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. In 2019, he was signed to Mavin Records.

<i>Sad Romance</i> 2022 studio album by CKay

Sad Romance is the debut studio album by Nigerian singer CKay. It was released by Warner Music Africa on 23 September 2022. The album features guest appearances from Ayra Starr, Davido, Focalistic, Abidoza, Mayra Andrade, and Ronisia, and was executive produced by CKay. Following the release of the album CKay embarked on the Sad Romance North America Tour (2022).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">London (record producer)</span> British-Nigerian music producer and disc jockey

Michael Ovie Hunter, known professionally as Thisizlondon, is a Nigerian-British record producer and DJ. He is best known for producing the fire 2022 hit single, "Calm Down" for Rema before Selena Gomez hopped on the remix. It reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100, peaked atop the IMI International and remains the most internationally successful Afrobeats song.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Rush (Ayra Starr song)</span> 2022 single by Ayra Starr

"Rush" is a song by Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, released as a single on 16 September 2022 by Mavin Records from her debut studio album 19 & Dangerous. The song was written by Starr and Prince Omoferi, and produced by Hoops and Andre Vibez.

Balogun Afolabi Oluwaloseyi, known professionally as Seyi Vibez, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He is known for his breakthrough single "Chance " from his second studio album Billion Dollar Baby which debuted at No. 19 on the UK Afrobeats singles chart and peaked number 7 on the TurnTable Top 100 chart.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Boy Spyce</span> Nigerian singer-songwriter (born 2001)

Ugbekile David Osemeke, known professionally as Boy Spyce, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He gained recognition following his 2021 cover of Wizkid's song "Essence". Its success led him to sign a recording contract with Mavin Records, which released his debut extended play, self-titled Boy Spyce, in 2022 to modest commercial success.

<i>Heis</i> (album) 2024 studio album by Rema

Heis is the second studio album by Nigerian rapper and singer-songwriter Rema. It was released through Mavin Records, Jonzing World, and Interscope Records on 10 July 2024. The album features guest appearances from Shallipopi and Odumodublvck. It serves as the follow-up to his previous album, Rave & Roses (2022). The album received a nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, earning Rema his first career nomination at the Grammys.

References

  1. Victory, Orimemi (2 May 2024). "Ayra Starr announces second album 'The Year I Turned 21'". TheCable . Retrieved 31 May 2024.
  2. (anonymous) (2 May 2024). "Ayra Starr Releases Artwork, Track List For 'Sophomore Album'". Media Trust . Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  3. Stephanie, Sengwe (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr Says New Album Is Rollercoaster Of Emotions". People . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  4. Heran, Mamo (30 May 2024). "Ayra Starr Talks Sophomore Album 'The Year I Turned 21". Billboard . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  5. Bisi, Ademola (1 June 2024). "The Year I Turned 21 By Ayra Starr: Not 19 But Still Dangerous". African Folder. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  6. Peter, Okhide (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr Talks New Album, inspiration, and Artistic Growth". NotJustOk . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  7. Bella, Naija (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr's "The Year I Turned 21" is a Coming-of-Age Album". BellaNaija. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  8. Wongo, Okon (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr Interview: 'The Year I Turned 21' & Stardom". Uproxx . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  9. Zachary, Horvath (2 June 2024). "Ayra Starr Releases Her "Coming-Of-Age Album" "The Year I Turned 21"". HotNewHipHop . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  10. Will, Schube (14 September 2023). "Ayra Starr Shares New Single 'Rhythm And Blues". UdisCover. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  11. BellaNaija (2 February 2024). "Ayra Starr Drops New Single "Commas"". BellaNaija . Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  12. Robin, Murray (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21 | Reviews". Clash . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  13. 1 2 Kadish, Morris (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr: The Year I Turned 21 review – magnetic Afrobeats". The Guardian . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  14. 1 2 Tami, Makinde (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21 review: breathing new life into Afropop". NME . Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  15. Blossom, Maduafuka (31 May 2024). "Review: The Year I Turned 21 by Ayra Starr". The Native . Retrieved 31 May 2024.
  16. Chokrane, Boutayna (6 June 2024). "Ayra Starr: The Year I Turned 21 Album Review". Pitchfork . Retrieved 6 June 2024.
  17. 1 2 Adeayo, Adebeyi (31 May 2024). "Ayra Starr's The Year I Turned 21 is simply incredible [Review]". Pulse Nigeria. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  18. "African Entertainment Awards USA 2024: All the nominees". Music in Africa. 4 October 2024. Retrieved 6 October 2024.
  19. "Billboard Canadian Albums: Week of June 15, 2024". Billboard . Retrieved 11 June 2024.
  20. "Top Albums". SNEP (in French). Retrieved 17 June 2024.
  21. "Official Top 100 Albums: May 31st, 2024 - June 6th, 2024". TurnTable . Archived from the original on 12 June 2024. Retrieved 16 June 2024.
  22. "Official Albums Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved 7 June 2024.
  23. "Billboard 200: Week of June 15, 2024". Billboard . Retrieved 11 June 2024.
  24. "World Albums: Week of June 15, 2024" . Billboard . Retrieved 11 June 2024.