From Studio to Stadium: Ayra Starr Performs 'Hot Body' at Coldplay Concert with Lionel Messi Watching

Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr continues to soar beyond the borders of Afrobeats, the continent, and all expectations as she celebrated a stunning milestone in her ever-rising career: performing her hit song Hot Body live on stage with legendary British band Coldplay — with global football icon Lionel Messi watching from the audience. The ethereal singer shared the moment with the world in her characteristically candid and joyful way, taking to social media to write, “I just performed Hot Body on stage with Coldplay!! And Messi was in the audience.” The exclamation points were not excessive. The moment itself was worthy of awe.

The Coldplay concert, which took place as part of the band's ongoing world tour, was already a monumental affair, known for its vibrant visuals, spiritual energy, and unforgettable musical fusion. But for fans of Ayra Starr, and for the singer herself, it became an unforgettable stamp of international recognition. A blend of cultures, sounds, and stars collided under a sea of lights and cheers as Ayra lit up the stage, proving that her sound — a genre-defying cocktail of Afropop, R&B, and celestial soul — truly transcends language and borders.

For the 21-year-old singer, whose career skyrocketed after her breakout single Away in 2021 and who has since become a household name through hits like Bloody Samaritan, Rush, and Sability, this performance wasn’t just another gig. It was a moment of cosmic alignment — performing alongside Coldplay, one of the most revered bands in the world, while Messi, the football god himself, watched on. Ayra Starr isn’t just riding the wave of Afrobeats’ global explosion; she’s helping shape its future.

Videos of the performance quickly circulated on social media, capturing Ayra’s magnetic energy as she danced and sang with confidence and grace, dressed in a dazzling outfit that sparkled under the stadium lights. Coldplay, known for embracing diverse sounds and inviting global artists to join them on stage, welcomed her with the kind of warmth and admiration that speaks volumes about her growing influence. Chris Martin, Coldplay’s lead vocalist, could be seen exchanging warm smiles with her both on and off stage — a testament to the mutual respect between artists from different worlds yet united by sound.

While the performance itself was thrilling, the cherry on top was Lionel Messi’s presence. The Argentine football superstar, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, was reportedly in the VIP section with his family, enjoying the music, soaking in the atmosphere, and giving an approving nod to the Afrobeats queen on stage. For fans, the idea that Messi — a man known for his quiet grace and unmatched brilliance on the field — witnessed Ayra’s performance live is surreal. And for Ayra Starr, it was a moment that felt like a divine joke. “Messi was in the audience,” she emphasized again, as though still trying to process it herself.

What makes this moment even more poetic is that Ayra Starr has often referred to herself as a "celestial being" — a star not just in name but in spirit. That aura was fully realized on stage that night. She wasn’t just a guest performer; she was a force, holding her own with one of the biggest bands on the planet and captivating a crowd that included the world’s most celebrated athlete.

The significance of this moment is not lost on fans back home in Nigeria and across Africa. Social media erupted with praise, pride, and goosebumps as fans posted screenshots of her tweet, replayed the performance, and reflected on how far she’s come in such a short time. From recording in a small studio in Lagos to shaking stadiums across continents, Ayra’s journey continues to inspire a generation of young artists daring to dream beyond their immediate environment.

Industry insiders also chimed in, with music critics praising Ayra’s ability to blend charisma with artistry. “She doesn’t just perform, she radiates,” one fan wrote. Another declared, “Ayra Starr is not just a Nigerian star; she’s a global light.”

Her music label, Mavin Records, founded by legendary producer Don Jazzy, has long championed her unique talent, and this performance marks yet another chapter in what is already a record-breaking career. This is the same Ayra who was nominated for a Grammy, who has charted across continents, who walks red carpets with the confidence of a veteran — yet still retains the bubbly enthusiasm of a girl who loves what she does.

For Coldplay, the collaboration is yet another example of their ongoing love affair with African music. In recent years, the band has opened its arms to artists from all over the world, building bridges through harmony and rhythm. Their embrace of Ayra Starr is not just a stamp of approval — it's a recognition of her potential to dominate global stages.

As the dust settles on what was clearly a magical night, Ayra Starr’s tweet remains pinned in the hearts of fans everywhere. “I just performed Hot Body on stage with Coldplay!! And Messi was in the audience.” Simple words, but carrying a universe of emotion. A story wrapped in exclamation marks, disbelief, and divine timing.

If anyone still doubted whether Afrobeats had truly gone global, or whether the young artists behind the new wave were ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with legends, Ayra Starr just put those doubts to rest. She didn’t just perform. She claimed her space. And in the process, she reminded the world why stars shine brightest when they’re truly being themselves.

This is no longer just the age of Afrobeats — it is the era of Ayra. And the universe is listening.