Two of the brightest female stars redefining the Nigerian and global music industry today are Tems and Ayra Starr.
Both have taken Afrobeats to new heights, broken international barriers, and proven that female artists can lead the wave in creativity and earnings.
Yet one question continues to stir conversations among fans and music lovers — who is richer between Tems and Ayra Starr?
This article digs deep into their net worth, brand deals, assets, and achievements to uncover who truly leads the money race.
Who Is Richer Between Tems and Ayra Starr?
Currently, Tems is richer than Ayra Starr.
Tems’ estimated net worth sits around $3 million (₦4.5 billion), while Ayra Starr’s stands at roughly $1.8 million (₦2.7 billion).
Tems earns more because she controls her music independently, collects global royalties, and benefits from international collaborations and brand partnerships.
Ayra Starr, though highly successful, still operates under Mavin Records, where revenue is shared through label agreements.
Tems’ Net Worth
Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, became a global force after her breakout single Try Me and her Grammy-winning collaboration with Wizkid, Drake, and Future on Essence and Wait for U.
Her estimated $3 million fortune comes from:
Music sales and streaming royalties.
International collaborations and songwriting credits.
World tours and festival performances.
Global endorsements and fashion partnerships.
Tems’ independent model allows her to retain full ownership and royalties, giving her a strong edge financially.
Ayra Starr’s Net Worth
Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known as Ayra Starr, emerged under Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records and rose to fame with hits like Away, Bloody Samaritan, and Rush.
Her estimated $1.8 million wealth comes from:
Streaming revenue and music sales.
Endorsement deals with brands like Pepsi and Maybelline.
Concerts and appearances across Africa and Europe.
Royalties shared through Mavin’s structured contract system.
Though part of her revenue goes through the label, Mavin’s global network ensures continuous exposure and financial growth.
Comparing Their Sources of Income
Tems’ independence gives her direct financial control and access to international markets, while Ayra Starr enjoys stability and brand positioning through Mavin Records.
Tems earns heavily in dollars from global collaborations; Ayra Starr earns steadily from structured regional dominance. Both models are profitable — one through autonomy, the other through strong label backing.
Endorsements and Brand Deals
Tems has collaborated with international fashion houses and appeared in global campaigns, expanding her earnings and visibility.
Ayra Starr has become the youthful face of several African and multinational brands targeting Gen Z audiences.
Tems’ deals pay more internationally, while Ayra’s partnerships strengthen her presence across the continent.
Awards and Achievements
Tems:
Grammy Award winner.
BET and NAACP Image Awards recipient.
Golden Globe and Oscar nominee.
Ayra Starr:
Headies Award winner.
MTV Africa Music Award nominee.
AFRIMMA nominee.
Over 100 million Spotify streams as one of Nigeria’s youngest chart-toppers.
Tems’ international recognition currently gives her more financial leverage, while Ayra Starr’s growth pace shows a promising climb toward similar heights.
Cars and Houses
Tems owns a modern home in Lagos and drives luxury vehicles such as a Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz GLE, maintaining a private yet elegant lifestyle.
Ayra Starr owns a Lagos residence and rides stylish cars like the Lexus RX and Toyota Venza, balancing class with youthful simplicity.
Both artists live comfortably and represent success without unnecessary flamboyance.
Final Verdict
When it comes to wealth, Tems leads financially.
Her international reach, Grammy recognition, and independence keep her earnings ahead.
However, Ayra Starr’s trajectory is impressive — with consistent hits, expanding endorsements, and Mavin’s strategic backing, she could soon rival Tems’ net worth.
Together, they prove that Nigerian women are not just shaping Afrobeats musically but also commanding respect financially and globally.
