Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has delivered a standout performance at NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert, giving fans an early taste of her upcoming album “Starrgirl,” including an unreleased track, Tornado.
The set, released on NPR Music’s YouTube channel, is part of the 2026 Black Music Month series, which celebrates the legacy of Black music through a multi-generational lineup of artists.
Known for her bold fashion and energetic stage presence, Ayra Starr took a different approach for Tiny Desk, opting for a simple black sweatsuit and a minimalist setup that put full focus on her vocals.
Her five-song set moved through fan favourites like Gimme Dat and Who’s Dat Girl, before introducing Tornado, a brand-new track from her upcoming project. She closed with more reflective songs, Amin and Orun, revealing a softer, more spiritual layer to her artistry.
Starrgirl, Ayra Starr’s third studio album, is set for release on August 14, 2026 under Mavin Records. The project follows a steady run of releases that have built momentum, including collaborations with Wizkid on Gimme Dat and Rema on Who’s Dat Girl, alongside her March 2026 single Where Do We Go.
The live debut of Tornado at Tiny Desk adds to growing anticipation, with the official single expected to drop this Friday.
Why Tiny Desk is Amazing to watch
Since its launch in 2008, Tiny Desk has become one of the most respected live music platforms globally, known for its stripped-down format that removes studio effects and stage spectacle.
The format often reveals a different side of artists, placing emphasis on raw vocals, musicianship, and storytelling.
Nigerian stars including Burna Boy, Tems, and Asake have all previously graced the Tiny Desk stage, strengthening Afrobeats’ global presence.
