Ayra Starr to Open for Chris Brown on US Tour, Prepared for Criticism

Lagos, Nigeria – Nigerian afrobeats star Ayra Starr has announced her readiness to face potential criticism for her decision to open for American musician Chris Brown on his upcoming US tour.

This announcement comes amidst lingering public memories of Brown's 2009 assault on his then-girlfriend, pop star Rihanna.

In an interview with the BBC's Focus on Africa podcast, Starr expressed her preparation for any backlash that might arise from her association with Brown.

"I'm prepared, I'm ready... I won't respond, I'll let people do their thing and I'm just going to work," she stated.

Despite the controversy surrounding Brown due to the assault, for which he received five years' probation and a community service order, Starr emphasized her professional focus.

Starr, who has quickly risen to become one of Africa's leading musicians, also shared her admiration for Rihanna, referring to her as her "queen" and expressing a desire to collaborate with the Barbados-born singer in the future.

"Rihanna is my number one," she said, hoping for a collaboration "by God's grace."

The afrobeats sensation also mentioned she recently finished recording her second album, titled "The Year I Turned 21," marking another significant milestone in her burgeoning music career.

As Ayra Starr prepares to take the stage in the US, her approach to handling potential criticism highlights her focus on her career and artistic growth, despite the possible controversies involved in her tour association.