Album Review: “The Year I Turned 21” by Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr, the Nigerian Afropop sensation, has released her highly anticipated sophomore album, “The Year I Turned 21,” on May 31st, 2024. This album follows her successful debut project, “19 & Dangerous,” and continues to showcase her evolution as a formidable force in the Afrobeats genre.

Comprising 15 tracks with a total duration of 27 minutes and 42 seconds, the album features collaborations with prominent artists like Seyi Vibez, Asake, Coco Jones, Anitta, Giveon, Rvssian, and Rauw Alejandro. Released under Mavin Records, this album is set to make waves in the music scene. The lead single, “Commas,” quickly emerged as a standout track, becoming her first major hit of 2024.

“The Year I Turned 21” Album Overview

Genre and Mood

“The Year I Turned 21” is primarily rooted in Afropop and Afrobeat, blending rhythmic beats with soulful melodies. The album’s overall mood is a mix of vibrant, energetic tracks and more introspective, emotive songs, reflecting Ayra Starr’s versatility and depth as an artist.

About the Album “The Year I Turned 21”

“The Year I Turned 21” is a multi-faceted album by Starr, combining personal and universal themes such as fear of failure, newfound love, fame, fortune, gender positivity, parental loss, intimacy, and mental wellbeing. Starr blends R&B and Afropop with influences from Latin pop, Jamaican dancehall, Nigerian highlife, and gospel, creating a rich, diverse sonic experience. The album features contributions from prominent producers like LONDON, P2J, P-Prime, and Starr’s brother, Milar, yet Starr’s distinctive voice remains the focal point.

The album begins with “Birds Sing of Money,” a personal touch incorporating a Fuji song performed by a singer hired by Starr’s brother. The song celebrates her early success and hype, a testament to her Yoruba roots. “Goodbye (Warm Up)” is a track that showcases a collaboration with Asake. Starr was initially unsure of Asake’s response but was thrilled with his quick and positive contribution, making it one of her favorite recordings.

In “Commas,” Starr reflects on her blessings and expresses thankfulness for her life and career. The song emphasizes her dedication and hard work, underpinned by a strong spiritual faith. “Woman Commando,” featuring Anitta and Coco Jones, is an Afrobeats/amapiano fusion. Starr combines different musical elements and perspectives, creating a vibrant and dynamic song celebrating diverse influences.

“Control” explores themes of power dynamics and hints at a desire for a partner to take the lead. It walks a fine line between submission and empowerment, leaving the interpretation open to the listener. “Lagos Love Story” delves into the surreal feeling of guilt that sometimes accompanies intense joy. It’s a reflection on the fleeting nature of happiness.

“Last Heartbreak Song,” featuring GIVEON, captures the emotional turbulence of arguments in relationships. GIVEON’s verse adds depth and perspective, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar dynamics. In “Bad Vibes,” Starr addresses misunderstandings and resilience. The song’s hook, an idiomatic Yoruba expression, loses some nuance in translation but conveys a strong message of enduring toughness.

“Orun” juxtaposes highlife music’s typically joyous nature with themes of mental health and depression, presenting a complex, introspective look at life’s struggles. “Jazzy’s Song” pays homage to Don Jazzy, sampling Wande Coal’s “You Bad” and showcasing Starr’s admiration for the influential producer. It’s a blend of respect and musical innovation.

“1942” is a deeply personal song reflecting on Starr’s first vacation and the sense of accomplishment and relaxation it brought. It captures a moment of peace after hard work. “The Kids Are Alright” sees Starr reflecting on turning 21 and the self-awareness it brings. The song deals with childhood trauma and the unresolved grief of losing her father, adding a poignant layer to the album.

“Santa,” featuring Russian and Rauw Alejandro, sees Starr singing in Spanish. The track highlights her versatility and international appeal. “Rhythm & Blues” was initially uncertain for release, but it became a significant track for Starr. It features a line addressing a male muse, breaking conventional gender expectations in songwriting.

Finally, the album’s titular track, “21,” was a birthday gift and marks Starr’s foray into writing about herself. It represents her growth and personal development, encapsulating the essence of the album. “The Year I Turned 21” is a compelling blend of diverse musical styles and personal narratives, showcasing Starr’s growth as an artist and individual. The album is not only a celebration of her coming of age but also a deep dive into the complexities of her experiences and emotions.

Features and Collaborations

The album boasts an impressive lineup of features:

• Seyi Vibez: Nigerian singer and songwriter.
• Asake: Another Nigerian star, known for his infectious energy and signature style.
• Coco Jones: American singer-songwriter and actress, adding a touch of international flair.
• Anitta: Brazilian singer, songwriter, and entertainer, bringing a unique Latin vibe.
• Giveon: American R&B singer, known for his deep, soulful voice.
• Rvssian: Jamaican record producer and artist.
• Rauw Alejandro: Puerto Rican singer and rapper, adding a reggaeton twist.

These collaborations infuse the album with diverse sounds and styles, enriching the overall listening experience.

“The Year I Turned 21” Tracklist

Musical Composition

Arrangement and Instrumentation

The musical arrangement of “The Year I Turned 21” is a vibrant tapestry of rich instrumentation, infectious beats, and captivating melodies. Ayra Starr’s use of traditional African instruments blended with modern electronic elements creates a unique and compelling soundscape. Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing a seamless flow from intros to verses, choruses, and bridges.

Song Structure

Ayra Starr employs a traditional song structure, ensuring each track is engaging and easy to follow. The intros set the tone, the verses build the narrative, the choruses deliver the hook, and the bridges provide a refreshing change, keeping listeners hooked from start to finish.

Vocal Performance

Ayra Starr’s vocal performance on “The Year I Turned 21” is nothing short of stellar. Her voice is powerful yet emotive, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions. Whether she’s delivering an upbeat anthem or a soulful ballad, Ayra Starr’s vocals shine, demonstrating her growth and maturity as a singer.

Production and Sound Quality

Quality and Mixing

The production quality of “The Year I Turned 21” is top-notch, with impeccable mixing and mastering ensuring each track sounds polished and professional. The album benefits from the expertise of Mavin Records’ production team, known for their high standards and attention to detail.

Unique Sound Effects

Unique sound effects and innovative production techniques set this album apart. From the subtle use of traditional African rhythms to the incorporation of contemporary electronic beats, the production is both sophisticated and forward-thinking.

Conclusion and Rating

“The Year I Turned 21” is a remarkable album that highlights Ayra Starr’s growth as an artist. With its eclectic mix of genres, powerful vocals, and stellar production, it stands as a testament to her talent and potential. I rate this album an 8 out of 10 for its originality, cohesiveness, and sheer musicality.

Stream the Album here:

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