Rihanna is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who has become one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation. Born in Saint Michael, Barbados in 1988, Rihanna moved to the United States at the age of 16 to pursue a music career. She signed with Def Jam Recordings and released her debut album, “Music of the Sun,” in 2005, which spawned the hit single “Pon de Replay.” Her second album, “A Girl like Me,” followed in 2006 and featured the chart-topping singles “SOS” and “Unfaithful.”
However, it was her third album, “Good Girl Gone Bad,” that catapulted her to global stardom. The album included the international hit “Umbrella” featuring Jay-Z and earned Rihanna her first Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. Rihanna has since released eight more studio albums and has become known for her ability to seamlessly blend different genres, including pop, R&B, hip hop, and reggae.
Apart from her music career, Rihanna is also a successful businesswoman. She launched her makeup line Fenty Beauty in 2017, which has been praised for its inclusive shade range, and later launched a lingerie line called Savage X Fenty. Rihanna has also been actively involved in philanthropy, including donating millions to organizations supporting education and healthcare in her home country of Barbados.
With her distinctive voice, bold fashion choices, and fearless approach to both her music and business ventures, Rihanna has become an icon for her generation and an inspiration for many around the world.
10. “Disturbia”
“Disturbia” is a song by Rihanna from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded.” It was released as a single in 2008 and quickly became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries. The song features a dark and eerie melody with lyrics that explore the theme of mental and emotional turmoil. The music video for “Disturbia” is known for its gothic and horror-inspired visuals, which have become iconic in pop culture. Overall, “Disturbia” showcases Rihanna’s ability to push creative boundaries and explore deeper themes through her music.
9. “Don’t Stop the Music”
“Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna is an energetic dance-pop song with an infectious beat that’s hard to resist. The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of getting lost in the music and wanting the party to go on forever. It features a catchy chorus that encourages listeners to keep dancing and enjoy the moment. The song’s production incorporates elements of disco and funk, with a driving bassline and pulsing electronic synths. Rihanna’s vocals are confident and powerful, conveying the song’s message of letting go and having fun. Overall, “Don’t Stop the Music” is a high-energy anthem that’s perfect for any dancefloor.
8. “Take a Bow”
“Take a Bow” by Rihanna is a mid-tempo R&B ballad that tells the story of a woman who is fed up with her partner’s lies and deceitful behavior. Rihanna’s vocals are soulful and emotional, as she delivers lyrics that are both vulnerable and empowering. The song’s melody is simple yet captivating, with a memorable hook that showcases Rihanna’s vocal range. The production is polished and modern, with a blend of electronic and acoustic elements that create a lush and dynamic sound. “Take a Bow” is a powerful and relatable breakup anthem that has resonated with listeners around the world.
7. “Stay” (feat. Mikky Ekko)
“Stay” is a ballad by Rihanna featuring singer-songwriter Mikky Ekko, from her seventh studio album “Unapologetic.” The song was released in 2013 and quickly became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries. The song is a poignant and emotional portrayal of a difficult and troubled relationship, with Rihanna’s soulful vocals conveying the pain and vulnerability of the lyrics. The stripped-down and minimalist production, with only a piano and sparse instrumentation, allows the raw emotion of the song to take center stage. Overall, “Stay” is a powerful and moving ballad that showcases Rihanna’s versatility as a vocalist.
6. “Umbrella” (feat. Jay-Z)
“Umbrella” is a catchy pop song by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, that became a chart-topping hit in 2007. The song’s lyrics use a metaphor of an umbrella to represent the emotional support that Rihanna’s lover provides to her. The production features a memorable melody and a catchy chorus that emphasizes the song’s message of loyalty and protection. Jay-Z’s rap verse adds an extra layer of swagger and reinforces the song’s theme of power and strength. “Umbrella” is a classic Rihanna song that has become synonymous with the singer’s early career, and it continues to be a fan favorite to this day.
5. “Only Girl (In the World)”
“Only Girl (In the World)” by Rihanna is an upbeat dance-pop anthem that celebrates the joys of being in a loving relationship. The song’s production is energetic and vibrant, with a catchy synth riff and pounding drumbeat that encourages listeners to dance along. Rihanna’s vocals are confident and playful, as she sings about wanting to be the center of her partner’s attention. The chorus is a euphoric declaration of love and desire, with Rihanna proclaiming that her partner makes her feel like the only girl in the world. “Only Girl (In the World)” is a fun and uplifting track that showcases Rihanna’s ability to craft irresistible pop hits.
4. “Work” (feat. Drake)
“Work” is a dancehall-inspired song by Rihanna featuring rapper Drake, from her eighth studio album “Anti.” The song was released in 2016 and quickly became a commercial success, reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song features Rihanna’s distinctive Caribbean-infused vocals and a catchy, upbeat rhythm that makes it a popular club and party anthem. Drake’s contribution adds a contrasting rap verse that adds a fresh element to the song. Overall, “Work” is a fun and infectious pop song that showcases Rihanna’s ability to blend different genres and create music that appeals to a wide audience.
3. “Love the Way You Lie” (Eminem feat. Rihanna)
“Love the Way You Lie” is a powerful collaboration between Eminem and Rihanna that explores the toxic cycle of an abusive relationship. The song’s lyrics describe the intense love-hate dynamic between two people who can’t seem to let go of each other, despite the pain and destruction they inflict on one another. The production is intense, with a haunting piano melody and explosive rap verses from Eminem that contrast with Rihanna’s emotive and heartfelt chorus. “Love the Way You Lie” is a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of domestic violence, and has become a landmark song in both Eminem and Rihanna’s careers.
2. “We Found Love” (feat. Calvin Harris)
“We Found Love” by Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris is an electro house and dance-pop track that celebrates the highs and lows of a passionate but tumultuous relationship. The song’s production is energetic and euphoric, with a driving beat and pulsing synths that create a sense of urgency and excitement. Rihanna’s vocals are raw and emotional, as she sings about the intense feelings that come with falling in love. The chorus is a catchy and anthemic refrain that captures the rush of adrenaline that comes with being with someone who makes you feel alive. “We Found Love” is a powerful and unforgettable track that showcases Rihanna’s versatility as an artist.
1. “Diamonds”
“Diamonds” by Rihanna is a powerful and emotional ballad that showcases the singer’s stunning vocals. The song’s lyrics describe the beauty and resilience of love, likening it to diamonds that can withstand the test of time. The production is minimalistic, with a simple piano melody and a subtle electronic beat that builds to a soaring chorus. Rihanna’s voice is raw and vulnerable, conveying the song’s message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. “Diamonds” has become one of Rihanna’s most iconic songs, and its uplifting message has resonated with audiences around the world.