Review
“Goodbye (Warm Up)” by Ayra Starr is a moody, emotionally charged track that showcases her evolution as both a vocalist and storyteller. Released as part of her 2024 album *The Year I Turned 21*, the song features a collaboration with Asake and blends Afro-pop with alternative R&B and spiritual undertones. Ayra Starr delivers raw and expressive vocals over a stripped-down beat, setting the tone for a farewell message rooted in personal growth and closure. The title "Goodbye" doesn't just signal the end of a relationship but also hints at letting go of old versions of oneself in order to embrace transformation.
The track stands out for its vulnerability. Lyrically, Ayra reflects on past pain, disappointment, and emotional exhaustion while still holding onto grace and dignity. Her ability to sound both delicate and assertive adds depth to the narrative. The inclusion of Asake’s verse adds a layer of spiritual reflection and emotional weight, blending Yoruba influence with a modern, introspective sound. His melodic input complements Ayra’s vocals and enhances the sense of farewell with a redemptive edge.
“Goodbye” captures the emotional complexity of letting go—not out of bitterness, but out of necessity. It's a graceful sendoff wrapped in soul-stirring melodies and ambient production. As with much of Ayra Starr’s work, the song balances youthfulness with maturity, making it relatable for a wide range of listeners navigating change, heartbreak, or growth. It’s a subtle anthem of liberation, a reminder that saying goodbye can be an act of self-love.
Goodbye (Warm Up) (Radio Edit) by Ayra Starr f. Asake from The Year I Turned 21 on Mavin Records # 102 BPM Afrobeats