Grammy-nominated Nigerian sensation, Ayra Starr, has extended a public apology following a social media uproar over her interaction with legendary Juju musician, King Sunny Ade (KSA), at the Afrozons pre-Grammy party in Lagos State.
The incident, captured in a video, showcased Ayra Starr, 21, shaking hands with the 77-year-old KSA without performing a traditional gesture like going down on her knees or curtsying. This seemingly informal approach triggered criticism from some netizens who deemed it disrespectful.
Social media user @_AsiwajuLerry remarked, “The fact that Ayra Starr is a Yoruba girl makes this quite disrespectful no matter how you spin it. She must not go on her knees but a simple knee gesture would do. The man even bowed his head out of respect for the person he’s shaking and she was there standing like a shigidi.”
In response to the backlash, Ayra Starr promptly issued a public apology. She explained, “I’m so sorry, I had just walked in and all the lights and nerves didn’t let me see but I came back around to greet everyone properly. I have never been that girl to be disrespectful. I’m a proper Yoruba girlllll and the video didn’t start until after I’d greeted Burna’s mom! I’m very sorry to the legend, uncle, and King Sunny Ade.”
The singer’s apology acknowledged the unintentional nature of the perceived lapse in etiquette and expressed regret for any offense caused. Ayra Starr emphasized her commitment to respecting cultural norms and clarified that the video didn’t capture the initial greetings.
Ayra Starr, who earned her first Grammy Award nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for her song “Rush,” has continued to garner attention both for her musical prowess and her handling of the public incident. The episode will forever serve as a reminder to all of the fierce scrutiny that public figures and celebrities face, in the midst of their soaring successes.
