Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has made history as the first African artist to receive a Latin Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), marking a monumental breakthrough for Nigerian music on the global stage. The recognition follows the massive success of her hit track “Santa,” a collaboration with Jamaican producer Rvssian and Puerto Rican superstar Rauw Alejandro. The record has officially surpassed 600,000 units in the United States, equivalent to over 35 million streams, meeting the RIAA’s threshold for Latin Diamond status.
The achievement positions Ayra Starr in a unique league, building on the footsteps of fellow Mavin Records act Rema, who previously earned Latin Platinum for his feature on “Bubalu.” “Santa” has soared to the top of charts across several countries, including Spain, Colombia, and Ecuador, and has secured multi-Platinum certifications in Mexico and Spain.
Ayra Starr’s rise reflects a broader global embrace of Afrobeats and its ability to seamlessly blend with Latin rhythms. Her triumph not only underscores the growing influence of Nigerian artists internationally but also reaffirms her status as one of Africa’s most dynamic voices reshaping global pop music.