Nigerian music star Ayra Starr has reportedly made history by becoming the first African artiste to headline a National Football League (NFL) halftime show during a game staged in London.

The Grammy-nominated singer performed on Sunday, October 11, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during the NFL Week Five clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Ayra Starr entertained the audience with a medley of her hit songs, including Rush, Santa, Heaven Baby, Hot Body and Dangerous. The performance also featured tracks from her latest project, Starrgirl.

Her appearance represents another significant moment in her growing international career, bringing Nigerian music and Afrobeats to a major American sporting event hosted outside the United States.

How Ayra Starr Rose to Global Prominence

Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, Ayra Starr gained widespread recognition in 2021 following the success of her breakout single, Bloody Samaritan.

Since then, she has emerged as one of Nigeria’s prominent music exports, attracting an expanding international audience and earning recognition through award nominations and performances on global stages.

She released her debut album, 19 & Dangerous, in 2021, followed by The Year I Turned 21 in 2024. Her latest project, Starrgirl, reflects the continued development of her musical identity.

Fans Celebrate Another Milestone for Afrobeats

Ayra Starr’s reported NFL halftime appearance highlights the growing international reach of Nigerian music and the increasing visibility of Afrobeats across entertainment platforms worldwide.

The performance also adds to the achievements of Nigerian artistes gaining opportunities to showcase their music at major international events.

As her global profile continues to grow, the London appearance marks another notable chapter in Ayra Starr’s journey as she expands her influence beyond Africa.