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Mariah Carey
“From DMs to Destiny”: Ayra Starr Recounts Emotional Moment Rihanna Followed Her and Opened Old Messages

Nigerian pop star Ayra Starr has shared a deeply emotional moment in her skyrocketing career, an unforgettable encounter with global music icon Rihanna that left her both stunned and inspired.
In a recent interview, the Rush hitmaker revealed that not only did Rihanna follow her on social media, but the superstar also opened their old private messages during their meeting right in front of her.
According to Ayra, the messages dated back to when she was just 13 years old, a young girl with big dreams, pouring out admiration and hope to her idol.
That little act of faith, though long buried in the inbox, came full circle years later as Ayra stood face-to-face with the very woman who once felt out of reach.
“I couldn’t believe it. It felt like the universe saying, ‘Yes, this is really happening,’” she recalled, her voice filled with emotion. “She literally scrolled through and showed me all the messages I sent when I was 13. It was so surreal.”
Ayra Starr talks joining social media, getting followed by Rema & SZA on Instagram — and the embarrassing moment Rihanna followed her back… then opened her 13 y/o fangirl DMs right in front of her 😭 pic.twitter.com/neuXXSWYUo
— 𝑨𝒚𝒓𝒂 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒓 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔 (@ayracharts) July 21, 2025
What made the moment even more powerful was not just Rihanna’s recognition but the symbolism it carried: from a teenage fan to a global star being acknowledged by the same person who once inspired her. It was a living testament to growth, manifestation, and the magic of believing in oneself.
Now regarded as one of the fastest-rising African artists on the world stage, Ayra Starr’s journey is more than just a success story; it’s a beacon for dreamers everywhere.
Her Rihanna moment has resonated widely across social media, reminding fans that no dream is too distant and no message too small.
From sending DMs in the hope of sharing stages and spotlights, Ayra Starr’s story is proof that with talent, persistence, and vision, the impossible becomes inevitable.
