Nigerian Afrobeats star and two-time Grammy nominee, Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has resumed rehearsals ahead of a scheduled performance in New York, days after revealing that she underwent major surgery.
The 24-year-old singer shared a video on social media showing herself rehearsing with dancers in preparation for her appearance on NBC’s TODAY show at Rockefeller Centre. The footage, which showed a visible bandage on her body, marks one of her first public appearances since disclosing her health challenge.
Inviting fans to attend the performance, Ayra Starr encouraged members of her fanbase, known as Mobstarrs, to gather at Rockefeller Plaza for the event. She also announced plans to reward early attendees with special prizes as part of the show’s promotional activities.
Her return to rehearsals comes shortly after she informed fans that she had undergone a major surgical procedure and was facing a more difficult recovery process than initially anticipated.
In a message shared via her Instagram Story on July 30, the singer apologised for her reduced online activity and explained that her recovery had taken longer than expected.
According to her, she had hoped for a quick recovery but complications made the process more challenging. While she did not disclose the nature of the surgery, she assured fans that she was focused on healing and would gradually return to her normal schedule.
Despite her health challenges, the singer has continued promoting her forthcoming project, Starrgirl. She recently announced that she signed copies of vinyl records and CD inserts for fans who pre-ordered the release, signalling her commitment to ongoing promotional activities.
Ayra Starr has established herself as one of Nigeria’s leading music exports since joining Mavin Records in 2021. Her debut album, 19 & Dangerous, produced several hit songs, including Bloody Samaritan, which expanded her reach across international markets.
Her global breakthrough came with the release of Rush in 2022, earning her a Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category. She further strengthened her international profile with her second album, The Year I Turned 21, released in 2024.
In 2026, Ayra Starr received another Grammy nomination for Gimme Dat, her collaboration with Wizkid, further cementing her position among Africa’s leading contemporary artists.
Her return to rehearsals is expected to reassure fans as she gradually resumes public engagements and prepares for upcoming performances.
