Ayra Starr Criticized for Using ‘Gay’ Dancers in Promo for Roc Nation Debut Single

Nigerian pop sensation Ayra Starr has found herself at the center of heated online criticism after posting a promotional dance video for her upcoming single under Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The short clip, which the singer shared on her social media pages, shows Ayra Starr performing alongside a group of backup dancers, some of whom appear effeminate in their presentation. While the video was meant to generate excitement ahead of the single’s release, it quickly attracted mixed reactions from fans — with many accusing the singer of “pushing Western values” and using what they described as “gay dancers” to market her music.

Ayra Starr, known for her bold fashion choices and genre-blending sound, has not yet responded to the backlash. However, the video continues to trend across platforms like Twitter (X) and Instagram, where fans and critics are locked in debates over cultural values, identity expression, and creative freedom.

“This isn’t about hate, it’s about protecting our culture. We don’t need this kind of influence in Nigerian music,” one user commented on Instagram.

“So because she signed to Roc Nation, she must now start copying the West? Very disappointing,” another added.

The controversy is particularly intense because this is Ayra Starr’s first release since signing a 5-year global deal with Roc Nation, the American entertainment agency founded by hip-hop mogul Jay-Z. The deal, announced just weeks ago, was seen as a huge milestone for the 22-year-old singer and a big win for Afrobeats’ global recognition.

Critics argue that Ayra Starr’s alignment with Western entertainment giants could lead to a shift in her artistic identity — one that may clash with traditional Nigerian values. For some, the inclusion of effeminate or LGBTQ+ dancers in her promotional materials signals what they see as an intentional move toward pushing a certain agenda.

Still, a large number of fans and cultural commentators have come to the singer’s defense, citing artistic freedom, diversity, and inclusivity as non-negotiable in the modern global music landscape.

“Let artists express themselves. Music is a universal language. Don’t reduce her creativity to who her dancers are,” one X user tweeted.

“You want global recognition but don’t want global standards. Pick a side,” another fan clapped back.

The debate reflects growing cultural tensions in Nigeria, where global trends often clash with traditional and conservative values, especially in the entertainment space. LGBTQ+ visibility remains a sensitive topic, with Nigerian law criminalizing same-sex relationships and societal attitudes still deeply rooted in religious and cultural conservatism.

As Ayra Starr gears up for what could be her biggest international moment yet, this controversy underscores the tightrope Nigerian artists must walk as they transition from local fame to global influence.

Whether this backlash will impact the release of her single remains to be seen. For now, Ayra Starr’s team has chosen to remain silent, possibly opting to let the music speak louder than the chatter.