Rihanna, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is a globally acclaimed Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. Born on February 20, 1988, in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna has established herself as one of the most influential and successful artists of her generation.
Rihanna’s career took off in the mid-2000s with the release of her debut album, “Music of the Sun.” However, it was her follow-up album, “A Girl Like Me,” featuring the hit single “Umbrella,” that catapulted her to international superstardom. Since then, she has released numerous chart-topping albums, including “Good Girl Gone Bad,” “Loud,” “Talk That Talk,” and “Anti.” Her music spans multiple genres, including pop, R&B, reggae, and hip-hop, showcasing her versatility and innovation.
Apart from her music career, Rihanna is a prominent fashion and beauty mogul. She launched her own makeup brand, Fenty Beauty, which earned widespread acclaim for its inclusive shade range. Her fashion line, Fenty, has also garnered attention for its groundbreaking approach to inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry.
Rihanna’s impact extends beyond music and fashion. She has used her platform to advocate for social and humanitarian causes, including education, healthcare, and gender equality. Her philanthropic efforts have earned her recognition and awards for her contributions to society.
With her immense talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to positive change, Rihanna has become an icon and role model for millions worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the worlds of music, fashion, and philanthropy.
1. Umbrella
“Umbrella” is a chart-topping and iconic song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, featuring Canadian rapper Jay-Z. It was released in 2007 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.” The song, produced by Tricky Stewart and The-Dream, became a massive hit and is often considered one of Rihanna’s signature tracks.
“Umbrella” is characterized by its infectious melody, memorable lyrics, and Rihanna’s powerful and emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics metaphorically compare love and support to an umbrella that shields from life’s challenges and difficulties. Lines like “You can stand under my umbrella” have become anthemic and resonate with themes of protection and loyalty.
The collaboration with Jay-Z adds depth and richness to the song, as his rap verses complement Rihanna’s singing. The music video for “Umbrella” features striking visuals, including Rihanna dancing in the rain and Jay-Z delivering his verse amidst a surreal, stormy backdrop.
“Umbrella” was a commercial and critical success, topping charts worldwide and earning numerous awards and nominations. It solidified Rihanna’s status as a global pop sensation and remains a beloved and enduring pop anthem. The song’s impact extends beyond music, as it has been referenced in various forms of popular culture and continues to be celebrated for its catchy melody and emotional resonance.
2. Diamonds
“Diamonds” is a hit song by Barbadian singer 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, and it was produced by Benny Blanco and Stargate.
“Diamonds” is characterized by its uplifting and anthemic sound, featuring Rihanna’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics of the song evoke themes of resilience, strength, and enduring love, with lines like “Shine bright like a diamond” serving as a metaphor for inner strength and positivity.
The song’s chorus, with the repeated line “We’re beautiful like diamonds in the sky,” is particularly memorable and has contributed to the song’s popularity and sing-along quality.
“Diamonds” received widespread acclaim from music critics and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The music video for the song features striking visual imagery, including scenes of natural beauty and celestial phenomena, further emphasizing the song’s themes.
“Diamonds” has become one of Rihanna’s signature tracks and is often cited as one of her career-defining songs. Its enduring appeal and universal message of resilience and beauty have made it a beloved and inspirational anthem for listeners around the world.
3. We Found Love
“We Found Love” is a popular song by Barbadian singer Rihanna featuring Scottish DJ and record producer Calvin Harris. It was released in 2011 as the lead single from Rihanna’s sixth studio album, “Talk That Talk.”
“We Found Love” is an upbeat and dance-pop song with electronic and house music influences. The lyrics tell the story of a passionate and tumultuous romantic relationship, with themes of love, desire, and excitement. The chorus includes the catchy refrain, “We found love in a hopeless place,” which has become one of the song’s most recognizable lines.
The accompanying music video for “We Found Love” garnered attention for its depiction of a volatile relationship and the use of vivid and sometimes controversial imagery. The song itself received critical acclaim and commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of Rihanna’s signature hits.
“We Found Love” is often associated with Rihanna’s transition into a more dance and electronic music-oriented sound, and it remains a well-loved and iconic song in her extensive discography.
4. Stay
“Stay” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna featuring Mikky Ekko. It was released in 2012 as a single from Rihanna’s seventh studio album, “Unapologetic.”
“Stay” is a heartfelt and emotionally charged ballad that explores themes of love, vulnerability, and the desire to hold onto a relationship despite its challenges. The song features Rihanna’s powerful and raw vocals, along with Mikky Ekko’s harmonious contributions. The lyrics express the longing and hope that the relationship will endure, with lines like “Not really sure how to feel about it, something in the way you move.”
The song’s simplicity and the raw emotion in Rihanna’s performance made it a standout track on the album. “Stay” received widespread critical acclaim and achieved commercial success, becoming a chart-topping hit in multiple countries.
The music video for “Stay” features a vulnerable and intimate performance by Rihanna in a bathtub, further emphasizing the song’s emotional depth. “Stay” has remained one of Rihanna’s signature ballads and continues to be cherished by fans for its emotional resonance and powerful vocals.
5. Shut Up and Drive
“Shut Up and Drive” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna. It was released in 2007 as the second single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.”
“Shut Up and Drive” is an upbeat and energetic pop and dance-rock song that features a catchy and driving melody. The lyrics convey a sense of empowerment and flirtation, with Rihanna encouraging her love interest to stop talking and start driving. The song’s chorus, with the repeated phrase “Shut up and drive, drive, drive,” has become one of its most recognizable elements.
The song’s music video features Rihanna in various car-related scenes, further emphasizing the song’s theme of driving and adventure. “Shut Up and Drive” received positive reviews from music critics and performed well on the charts.
It is known for its infectious and high-energy sound and has become a fan favorite and a staple in Rihanna’s live performances. The song contributed to the success of her “Good Girl Gone Bad” album, which marked a significant shift in her music style towards a more pop and dance-oriented sound.
6. Only Girl (In the World)
“Only Girl (In the World)” is a chart-topping dance-pop song by Barbadian singer Rihanna. It was 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 R. Riddick, and it was produced by Stargate and Sandy Vee.
“Only Girl (In the World)” is characterized by its energetic and euphoric sound, featuring Rihanna’s powerful vocals and an infectious melody. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of passion and desire, with Rihanna singing about wanting to be the center of her lover’s attention and affection. The chorus, with the repeated line “Want you to make me feel like I’m the only girl in the world,” captures the song’s romantic and playful essence.
The music video for “Only Girl (In the World)” features vibrant and colorful visuals, with Rihanna surrounded by various natural elements, including fields of flowers and expansive landscapes. The video complements the song’s themes of love and being the sole focus of attention.
The song was a commercial success, topping charts in several countries and earning critical acclaim. “Only Girl (In the World)” is often cited as one of Rihanna’s standout hits and a defining track of her career. Its danceable beat and catchy chorus continue to make it a favorite on dance floors and radio stations worldwide.
7. Work
“Work” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna featuring Canadian rapper Drake. It was released in 2016 as the lead single from Rihanna’s eighth studio album, “Anti.”
“Work” is a dancehall and R&B-infused track with a tropical and reggae-inspired beat. The song’s lyrics revolve around the themes of love, desire, and physical attraction. Rihanna and Drake’s vocal chemistry and playful exchanges add to the song’s sensuality.
One distinctive feature of “Work” is its use of a Caribbean patois, which adds an authentic and unique flavor to the song. The chorus features the repeated phrase “Work, work, work, work, work,” which has become an iconic and easily recognizable part of the track.
“Work” was a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s accompanying music video, which features Rihanna and Drake in a steamy and intimate setting, also garnered significant attention.
“Work” marked Rihanna and Drake’s continued collaboration in music and became one of the standout tracks from Rihanna’s “Anti” album. Its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus have made it a popular and enduring song in the pop and R&B genres.
8. Disturbia
“Disturbia” is an electrifying pop song by Barbadian singer Rihanna. It was released in 2008 as a single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded.” The song was written by Chris Brown, Andre Merritt, Robert Allen, and Brian Kennedy and produced by Brian Kennedy.
“Disturbia” is known for its edgy and dark sound, featuring Rihanna’s powerful and haunting vocals. The lyrics of the song explore themes of inner turmoil and psychological distress, with lines like “It’s a thief in the night to come and grab you” contributing to the song’s eerie and unsettling atmosphere.
The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Bum-bum-be-dum, bum-bum-be-dum, bum-bum-be-dum, Disturbia,” adds a catchy and memorable element to the song.
The music video for “Disturbia” features visually striking and surreal imagery, with Rihanna portraying various unsettling and eerie characters. The video complements the song’s dark and mysterious themes, creating a visually captivating experience for viewers.
“Disturbia” received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts worldwide. It has become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and is often celebrated for its unique blend of pop and darker elements. The song’s memorable chorus and memorable music video continue to make it a standout track in Rihanna’s discography.
9. S&M
“S&M” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna from her fifth studio album, “Loud,” released in 2010. The song is an uptempo and provocative track with themes of sexuality and dominance.
“S&M” stands for “Sadomasochism,” and the lyrics contain explicit references to various elements of BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, Masochism) culture. Rihanna sings about her desire for an intense and unconventional relationship, with lines like “Cause I may be bad, but I’m perfectly good at it, sex in the air, I don’t care, I love the smell of it.”
The song’s catchy chorus, with the repeated phrase “Na na na, come on,” adds to its playful and provocative nature. “S&M” was well-received by fans and became a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in several countries.
The music video for “S&M” stirred controversy due to its explicit content, and it was subject to censorship in some regions. Nevertheless, the song remains one of Rihanna’s notable hits and showcases her willingness to explore different themes and musical styles in her career.
10. Love on the Brain
“Love on the Brain” is a soulful and emotive song by Barbadian singer Rihanna. It was featured on her eighth studio album, “Anti,” released in 2016. The song was written by Fred Ball, Joseph Angel, and Rihanna herself.
“Love on the Brain” is a departure from the upbeat and dance-oriented tracks that Rihanna is known for. It showcases her vocal prowess and ability to deliver heartfelt and soulful performances. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of longing and vulnerability in a romantic relationship, with Rihanna singing about her desire for love and affection.
The chorus, with its powerful and impassioned delivery of “And you got me like, ‘Oh, what you want from me?'” is particularly memorable and emotionally charged.
“Love on the Brain” received critical acclaim for Rihanna’s vocal performance and the song’s emotional depth. While it wasn’t released as a single, it became a fan favorite and has been covered by various artists due to its timeless quality and soulful sound.
The song’s inclusion on “Anti” showcased Rihanna’s artistic growth and versatility, and “Love on the Brain” remains a testament to her ability to convey deep emotions through her music.