Rihanna ignites Tyla and Ayra Starr conversation resurfaces online after the singer shared a video featuring Ayra Starr’s song following the Met Gala
A video shared by global music star Rihanna after the 2026 Met Gala has reignited online discussions involving African music stars Tyla and Ayra Starr.
Also read: Woman arrested after firing at Rihanna’s LA mansion
Rihanna sparks Tyla and Ayra Starr discussion gained momentum on Thursday after Rihanna posted a video featuring Ayra Starr’s song Who’s Dat Girl as background music, days after a widely circulated Met Gala clip involving Tyla.
The earlier video, captured during the event on Sunday, showed Tyla standing nearby while Rihanna appeared engaged in a separate conversation. Some social media users interpreted the moment as Rihanna ignoring the South African singer, sparking heated reactions online.
Speculation intensified after Rihanna’s latest post, with fans on X linking the choice of Ayra Starr’s song to the earlier Met Gala interaction.
The development quickly triggered fierce reactions across social media, where supporters of both artistes debated the significance of the post.
While some users celebrated Rihanna’s use of Ayra Starr’s track, others defended Tyla and criticised the online backlash directed at her.
The moment also revived ongoing comparisons between the two African stars, particularly around awards, streaming achievements and international recognition.
Despite the online frenzy, both Tyla and Ayra Starr have repeatedly dismissed rumours of tension between them.
Responding to the Met Gala discussion on TikTok, Tyla explained that she chose not to approach Rihanna because the singer appeared occupied at the time.
She also recalled having a pleasant interaction with Rihanna during a previous meeting last year.
Also read: Woman arrested after firing at Rihanna’s LA mansion
Ayra Starr has similarly spoken against narratives attempting to create rivalry between female artistes, previously describing Tyla as a friend and condemning constant comparisons among women in the music industry.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
