Ayra Starr to Headline Afro Nation Punta Cana Alongside Sexyy Red and DJ Maphorisa
Ayra Starr continues her unstoppable global ascent as she’s been announced as a headliner for the 2025 Afro Nation Festival in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The Mavin Records star will be sharing top billing with American rapper Sexyy Red and South African powerhouse DJ Maphorisa from November 7 to 9.
Fresh off a whirlwind year that’s seen her grace international stages — including headlining the St Kitts Music Festival and the Canadian Jazz Festival — Ayra is showing no signs of slowing down. She’s also been a supporting act on Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres” 2025 world tour, further cementing her global credentials.
Joining Ayra on the Punta Cana lineup are Nigerian heavy-hitters Shallipopi, Ruger, Moliy, TXC and Odeal, rounding out a genre-bending mix of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Afroswing, and hip-hop. With a series of hit singles this year and her latest release, “Hot Body”, gaining traction and a slew of hits under her belt, fans can expect an electrifying set.
At just 22, Ayra Starr’s trophy shelf is growing fast — she recently became the second African woman to win Best International Act at the BET Awards after Tems and snagged two MOBO Awards this year. She also added to her Headies collection, winning Best R&B Single for her Giveon-assisted “Last Heartbreak Song” and hitting a billion views on YouTube — a first for any Nigerian female artist.
With global recognition, chart success, and a powerful stage presence, Ayra Starr’s headlining slot at Afro Nation Punta Cana feels less like a surprise — and more like destiny.
