Rihanna, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is a Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman. Born on February 20, 1988, in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna has become one of the most successful and influential artists in the music industry.
Rihanna rose to fame in the mid-2000s with the release of her debut album “Music of the Sun” (2005) and its follow-up “A Girl Like Me” (2006). However, it was her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad” (2007), that catapulted her to international superstardom. The album featured hit singles like “Umbrella,” “Don’t Stop the Music,” and “Disturbia.”
Throughout her career, Rihanna has continued to dominate the charts with numerous successful albums, including “Rated R” (2009), “Loud” (2010), “Talk That Talk” (2011), “Unapologetic” (2012), and “Anti” (2016). Her music spans various genres, including R&B, pop, reggae, and dancehall.
In addition to her music career, Rihanna has ventured into acting with roles in films such as “Battleship” (2012) and “Ocean’s 8” (2018). She has also achieved success in the fashion and beauty industries, notably with her Fenty Beauty cosmetics line.
Rihanna’s impact goes beyond music and entertainment; she is known for her philanthropic work, advocacy for various causes, and her influence on fashion and beauty standards. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Rihanna remains an influential figure in the global entertainment industry.
1. Umbrella
“Umbrella” is a song by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, released in 2007 as the lead single from Rihanna’s third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.” Written by The-Dream, Tricky Stewart, Kuk Harrell, and Jay-Z, the song became a massive international hit and is considered one of Rihanna’s signature tracks.
“Umbrella” features a catchy and memorable chorus, with the metaphor of an umbrella representing support and protection. The song’s lyrics convey themes of loyalty and standing by someone’s side during challenging times. Jay-Z’s rap verse complements Rihanna’s vocals, adding to the overall dynamic of the track.
The song’s success was propelled by its infectious melody, Rihanna’s strong and emotive vocals, and the collaboration with Jay-Z. “Umbrella” topped charts worldwide and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. It won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration.
“Umbrella” marked a turning point in Rihanna’s career, establishing her as a global pop icon. The song’s impact extends beyond its commercial success, as it remains a cultural touchstone and a defining moment in contemporary pop music.
2. Diamonds
“Diamonds” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2012 as the lead single from her seventh studio album, “Unapologetic.” The song was written by Sia Furler, Benjamin Levin, Mikkel S. Eriksen, and Tor Erik Hermansen, with production handled by Benny Blanco and StarGate.
“Diamonds” is an anthemic pop ballad that explores themes of resilience, inner strength, and the enduring nature of love. The metaphor of diamonds is used to convey the idea of shining bright even in the face of adversity. Rihanna’s emotive vocals and the song’s uplifting melody contributed to its widespread appeal.
The track received positive reviews from music critics and achieved commercial success worldwide. It topped charts in various countries and became one of Rihanna’s best-selling singles. “Diamonds” also earned critical acclaim for its departure from Rihanna’s previous sound and its incorporation of a more mature and contemplative lyrical theme.
The accompanying music video and Rihanna’s live performances of “Diamonds” further enhanced the song’s impact. It has since become one of Rihanna’s standout hits and is often celebrated for its empowering message and the artist’s vocal delivery.
3. We Found Love
“We Found Love” is a song by Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris, released in 2011 as the lead single from her sixth studio album, “Talk That Talk.” The song was written and produced by Calvin Harris and became one of Rihanna’s most successful and iconic tracks.
“We Found Love” is an energetic and dance-pop anthem that explores the highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics touch on themes of love, passion, and the addictive nature of an intense romantic connection. Rihanna’s vocals, combined with the upbeat and infectious production by Calvin Harris, created a dynamic and memorable track.
The song received widespread acclaim from critics and achieved commercial success globally. It topped charts in numerous countries and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. The accompanying music video, directed by Melina Matsoukas, garnered attention for its visually striking and controversial content.
“We Found Love” earned several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video. The song’s impact extends beyond its chart success, as it is often cited as one of Rihanna’s defining songs and a quintessential dance-pop anthem of the 2010s.
4. Stay
“Stay” is a song by Rihanna featuring Mikky Ekko, released in 2013 as a single from Rihanna’s seventh studio album, “Unapologetic.” The song was written by Mikky Ekko, Justin Parker, and Elof Loelv, with production by Parker and Loelv.
“Stay” is a poignant and emotive ballad that showcases Rihanna’s vulnerable and soulful side. The song explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the desire for emotional connection. Mikky Ekko’s vocals complement Rihanna’s, adding depth to the emotional resonance of the track.
The stripped-down production and the raw, intimate nature of the song set it apart from some of Rihanna’s more upbeat and dance-oriented hits. “Stay” received positive reviews from critics who praised Rihanna’s vocal performance and the song’s emotional impact.
The accompanying music video, featuring a simple and intimate setting, further emphasized the song’s emotional tone. “Stay” achieved commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts worldwide, and it has since become one of Rihanna’s well-regarded and memorable ballads.
5. Shut Up and Drive
“Shut Up and Drive” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2007 as the third single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.” The song was written by Evan Rogers, Carl Sturken, and Stephen Morris, Peter Hook, and Bernard Sumner of New Order, as it samples their song “Blue Monday.”
“Shut Up and Drive” is an upbeat and energetic track with a strong emphasis on driving metaphors. The lyrics playfully use automotive references as metaphors for romantic attraction and desire. The song features a catchy and infectious chorus that contributes to its dance-pop and rock-infused sound.
The accompanying music video, directed by Anthony Mandler, features Rihanna in various futuristic and automobile-themed settings, aligning with the song’s racing and driving motifs.
“Shut Up and Drive” received positive reviews for its catchy and fun nature, and it became a commercial success, charting in various countries. The song showcases Rihanna’s ability to explore different musical styles within the pop genre and contributed to the success of the “Good Girl Gone Bad” era, marking a shift in her musical style toward a more edgy and rebellious image.
6. Only Girl (In the World)
“Only Girl (In the World)” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2010 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, “Loud.” The song was written by Crystal Johnson, Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, Sandy Wilhelm, and Rihanna herself. The production was handled by Eriksen and Hermansen, who are part of the Norwegian production duo Stargate.
“Only Girl (In the World)” is an energetic dance-pop and Eurodance anthem with a euphoric and uplifting feel. The lyrics convey themes of love and desire, with Rihanna expressing the need to feel special and be the sole focus of her partner’s attention.
The song received positive reviews from music critics, praising its catchy melody and Rihanna’s vocal performance. “Only Girl (In the World)” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries. It earned Rihanna a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording in 2011.
The accompanying music video, directed by longtime collaborator Anthony Mandler, features vibrant and colorful visuals that complement the song’s celebratory vibe. “Only Girl (In the World)” remains one of Rihanna’s signature hits and is often remembered for its infectious chorus and its role in defining the “Loud” era of her career.
7. Work
“Work” is a song by Rihanna featuring Drake, released in 2016 as the lead single from her eighth studio album, “Anti.” The song was written by PartyNextDoor, Drake, Boi-1da, and Rihanna, with Boi-1da and Kuk Harrell handling the production.
“Work” is a dancehall and reggae-influenced track with a catchy and repetitive chorus. The lyrics explore themes of romantic attraction and the dynamics of a complicated relationship. Rihanna’s and Drake’s vocals complement each other, adding to the song’s sensual and rhythmic appeal.
“Work” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its infectious melody and the chemistry between Rihanna and Drake. The song became a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
The music video, directed by Director X, features vibrant and Caribbean-inspired visuals, reflecting the song’s dancehall influences. “Work” is notable for its cultural impact, further establishing Rihanna’s ability to explore and popularize diverse musical styles within the pop and R&B genres.
8. Disturbia
“Disturbia” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2008 as the third single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded.” The song was written by Andre Merritt, Chris Brown, and Robert Allen, with production handled by Brian Kennedy and Makeba Riddick.
“Disturbia” is an electro-pop and dance-pop track with dark and edgy undertones. The lyrics explore themes of inner turmoil and the haunting nature of one’s thoughts. The word “disturbia” is a portmanteau of “disturbance” and “hysteria,” reflecting the unsettling atmosphere of the song.
The track received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its production and Rihanna’s vocal delivery. “Disturbia” became a commercial success, topping charts in various countries and earning Platinum certifications. The song’s success further solidified Rihanna’s position as a prominent figure in the pop and R&B genres.
The accompanying music video, directed by Anthony Mandler, features surreal and visually striking imagery, adding to the song’s eerie and psychological atmosphere. “Disturbia” remains one of Rihanna’s well-known and impactful singles, showcasing her versatility as an artist in exploring different musical styles and themes.
9. S&M
“S&M” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2010 as the fourth single from her fifth studio album, “Loud.” The song was written by Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, Sandy Wilhelm, Ester Dean, and Rihanna, with Stargate and Sandy Vee handling the production.
“S&M” is an uptempo dance-pop and electropop track with provocative lyrics that explore themes of sexuality and the media’s portrayal of celebrities. The chorus features the catchy refrain “sticks and stones may break my bones, but chains and whips excite me.”
The song received mixed reviews from music critics, with some praising its infectious beat and others noting its explicit content. “S&M” achieved commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. It became Rihanna’s tenth number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
The music video, directed by Melina Matsoukas, features vibrant and playful visuals that match the song’s bold and risqué themes. “S&M” is known for its catchy chorus, energetic production, and its impact on pop culture, further establishing Rihanna as a boundary-pushing artist in the contemporary music scene.
10. Love on the Brain
“Love on the Brain” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2016 as the third single from her eighth studio album, “Anti.” The song was written by Fred Ball, Joseph Angel, and Rihanna, with production by Fred Ball.
“Love on the Brain” is a soulful ballad with influences from doo-wop and R&B. The song explores themes of romantic vulnerability, heartache, and the complexities of love. Rihanna’s emotive and powerful vocals take center stage, showcasing a different side of her artistry compared to her more upbeat and dance-oriented tracks.
Despite not receiving an official music video, “Love on the Brain” gained critical acclaim for its timeless sound and Rihanna’s vocal performance. The song became a fan favorite and achieved commercial success, reaching high positions on various charts.
“Love on the Brain” is often praised for its emotional depth, capturing the essence of classic soul ballads. Its inclusion in “Anti” demonstrated Rihanna’s ability to experiment with different genres and deliver a diverse range of musical styles within the album.