Grammy-nominated Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has offered fans an intimate look into the creative process behind her latest single, “Gimme Dat,” featuring Wizkid, in a new episode of Genius’ Verified. The vibrant track, which samples the 2000 classic “911” by Wyclef Jean and Mary J. Blige, captures themes of longing for love, emotional security, and authentic connection, delivered with Starr’s signature confidence, playful charm, and sultry tone.
In the episode, Starr delves into the inspiration behind “Gimme Dat,” revealing how the nostalgic elements of “911” influenced the song’s soundscape. She discusses stepping out of her comfort zone, exploring the meaning of loyal love, and recognizing alignment in life and relationships. The track, co-produced by VybeO and Mikabeatz, marks her second collaboration with Wizkid, following their 2022 hit “2 Sugar” from Wizkid’s More Love, Less Ego album.
Starr also provides a line-by-line breakdown of the lyrics, offering insights into her storytelling and the emotional depth of the song. Additionally, she shares the significance behind her choreography in recent music videos, connecting her movements to the track’s themes of love and attraction. The episode highlights Starr’s growing influence in the Afrobeats scene, underscored by her ability to blend nostalgic influences with modern pop sensibilities.
“Gimme Dat,” released on April 25, 2025, has already garnered significant attention, amassing over one million Spotify streams within 12 hours of its release. The accompanying music video, dropped on May 8, 2025, showcases Starr and Wizkid’s dynamic chemistry, further amplifying the song’s sensual and vibrant energy.
With her star on the rise, Starr continues to make waves globally, from earning a RIAA Latin Diamond certification for “Santa” to headlining Summer Jam 2025 in Newark, NJ, alongside hip-hop heavyweights. Her latest Genius appearance solidifies her as a leading voice in Afrobeats, blending cultural nostalgia with contemporary flair.
Watch the full Genius Verified episode to dive deeper into Ayra Starr’s creative journey with “Gimme Dat.”
