Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty on February 20, 1988, in Saint Michael, Barbados, is a Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman. She rose to fame in the mid-2000s with her debut single “Pon de Replay” and subsequent albums “Music of the Sun” (2005) and “A Girl like Me” (2006).
Rihanna’s music spans various genres, including R&B, pop, reggae, and dancehall. Throughout her career, she has released numerous hit singles and albums, earning critical acclaim and commercial success worldwide. Some of her most famous songs include “Umbrella,” “Don’t Stop the Music,” “Only Girl (In the World),” “We Found Love,” and “Diamonds.”
In addition to her music career, Rihanna has ventured into acting, appearing in films such as “Battleship” (2012) and “Ocean’s 8” (2018). She has also established herself as a successful entrepreneur, launching her own fashion and beauty brands, including Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty.
Rihanna’s impact extends beyond music and business, as she is also known for her philanthropic work and activism. She has been involved in various charitable initiatives and advocacy campaigns, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid.
Throughout her career, Rihanna has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful artists of her generation, with a lasting legacy in both music and popular culture.
1. Umbrella
“Umbrella” is a song by Rihanna, featuring Jay-Z, released in 2007 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.” The song was written by The-Dream, Christopher Stewart, Kuk Harrell, and Jay-Z, with production handled by Stewart and The-Dream.
“Umbrella” is characterized by its catchy hook, memorable melody, and infectious beat. The song’s lyrics metaphorically describe the protective and supportive role of a partner in a relationship, comparing it to an umbrella shielding from life’s challenges and difficulties.
Upon its release, “Umbrella” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries, including the United States, where it spent seven consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s widespread popularity was further boosted by its iconic music video, which features Rihanna dancing in the rain and Jay-Z delivering his verse in a dark setting.
“Umbrella” received critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration in 2008. It has since become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and a pop culture phenomenon, often cited as one of the greatest and most influential songs of the 2000s.
The song’s success propelled Rihanna to international stardom and solidified her reputation as one of the leading figures in contemporary pop music. “Umbrella” remains a beloved classic and a fan favorite at Rihanna’s live performances, continuing to captivate audiences with its irresistible melody and empowering message.
2. Diamonds
“Diamonds” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, released in 2012 as the lead single from her seventh studio album, “Unapologetic.”
“Diamonds” is an uptempo pop and dance-pop song with elements of electronic and EDM. It features Rihanna’s powerful vocals and a catchy chorus. Lyrically, the song celebrates the idea of inner strength and resilience, comparing it to the brilliance and indestructibility of diamonds.
“Diamonds” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in over 20 countries and topping the charts in several of them. It received positive reviews from music critics, who praised Rihanna’s vocal performance and the song’s uplifting message.
The accompanying music video for “Diamonds” features striking visual imagery, including scenes of Rihanna surrounded by natural elements such as fire and water. The video received praise for its artistic direction and cinematography.
“Diamonds” remains one of Rihanna’s most successful and iconic songs, earning numerous awards and accolades. It has become a fan favorite and a staple of her live performances.
3. We Found Love
“We Found Love” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, featuring Scottish DJ 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 uptempo electro-pop and dance-pop song with elements of house music. It features Rihanna’s vocals alongside a pulsating beat and electronic instrumentation produced by Calvin Harris. Lyrically, the song explores themes of love, passion, and the exhilaration of finding a deep connection with someone.
“We Found Love” was a commercial success, topping the charts in over 25 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It became one of Rihanna’s most successful singles, receiving critical acclaim for its infectious melody, catchy chorus, and energetic production.
The accompanying music video for “We Found Love” was directed by Melina Matsoukas and features Rihanna in a tumultuous relationship with a love interest played by model Dudley O’Shaughnessy. The video received widespread attention for its provocative imagery and portrayal of themes such as love, addiction, and self-destruction.
“We Found Love” has become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and remains a favorite among fans of pop and dance music. It has been certified multi-platinum in several countries and has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video.
4. Stay
“Stay” is a song by Rihanna featuring Mikky Ekko, released in 2012 as the second single from Rihanna’s seventh studio album, “Unapologetic.” The song was written by Mikky Ekko, Justin Parker, and Elof Loelv, with production handled by Ekko and Parker.
“Stay” is characterized by its stripped-down arrangement, featuring piano accompaniment and emotional vocals from both Rihanna and Mikky Ekko. The song’s lyrics depict themes of love, vulnerability, and the desire to hold onto a relationship despite its challenges and uncertainties.
Upon its release, “Stay” received widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised Rihanna’s raw and emotive delivery, as well as the song’s haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in numerous countries and earning platinum certifications in several territories.
The music video for “Stay” features a close-up shot of Rihanna submerged in a bathtub, adding to the song’s intimate and introspective mood. The video received praise for its simplicity and emotional resonance, further enhancing the song’s impact and popularity.
“Stay” has since become one of Rihanna’s most beloved and enduring songs, often cited as a standout track in her discography. Its powerful message and poignant melody continue to resonate with listeners around the world, making it a timeless ballad in the pop music landscape.
5. 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 song with a catchy beat and repetitive, yet infectious, vocal hooks. The song features Rihanna’s distinctive vocals alongside Drake’s rap verses. Lyrically, “Work” explores themes of love, desire, and the complexities of romantic relationships.
“Work” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It became Rihanna’s 14th number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, tying her with Michael Jackson for the third-most number-one singles in the chart’s history.
The song’s accompanying music video, directed by Director X, features Rihanna and Drake dancing and flirting in a dimly lit club setting. The video received praise for its chemistry between the two artists and its celebration of Caribbean culture.
“Work” remains one of Rihanna’s most successful singles and has been certified multi-platinum in several countries. It has become a fan favorite and a staple of Rihanna’s live performances.
6. 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, with production handled by Stargate.
“Shut Up and Drive” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and driving rhythm. The song’s lyrics playfully incorporate automotive metaphors, with Rihanna urging her love interest to “shut up and drive” and take her on a wild ride.
Upon its release, “Shut Up and Drive” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its infectious energy and Rihanna’s confident vocal delivery. The song became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in numerous countries and earning platinum certifications in several territories.
The music video for “Shut Up and Drive” features Rihanna performing energetic choreography and driving vintage cars, adding to the song’s fun and rebellious vibe. The video received praise for its stylish visuals and high-octane energy, further enhancing the song’s popularity.
“Shut Up and Drive” has since become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and a fan favorite at her live performances. Its catchy hooks and driving beat continue to make it a staple of pop music playlists and dance floors, solidifying its status as a classic in Rihanna’s discography.
7. Disturbia
“Disturbia” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, released in 2008 as the third single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded.”
“Disturbia” is an uptempo pop and electro-pop song with dark and edgy production. The song features an infectious beat, catchy melody, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, “Disturbia” explores themes of fear, paranoia, and inner turmoil.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in over 20 countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Disturbia” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its production, Rihanna’s vocal delivery, and its infectious hook.
The accompanying music video for “Disturbia,” directed by Anthony Mandler, features surreal and dark imagery, including scenes of Rihanna in various unsettling scenarios. The video received praise for its artistic direction and visual effects.
“Disturbia” has become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and remains a fan favorite. It has been certified multi-platinum in several countries and has been covered by various artists. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus have ensured its enduring popularity over the years.
8. Only Girl (In the World)
“Only Girl (In the World)” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, released in 2010 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, “Loud.”
“Only Girl (In the World)” is an uptempo dance-pop and electro-pop song with a catchy beat and infectious melody. The song features Rihanna’s powerful vocals and lyrics that celebrate love and desire, with the singer declaring herself the “only girl in the world” for her lover.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in over 10 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It became Rihanna’s ninth number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, tying her with artists like Madonna and The Supremes for the fifth-most number-one singles in the chart’s history at that time.
The accompanying music video for “Only Girl (In the World)” was directed by Anthony Mandler and features Rihanna in various colorful and extravagant settings, surrounded by natural elements like flowers and water. The video received praise for its vibrant visuals and Rihanna’s captivating performance.
“Only Girl (In the World)” has become one of Rihanna’s most successful and iconic songs, earning numerous awards and accolades. It has been certified multi-platinum in several countries and remains a fan favorite and a staple of Rihanna’s live performances.
9. Love on the Brain
“Love on the Brain” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2016 as the fourth single from her eighth studio album, “Anti.” The song was written by Fred Ball, Joseph Angel, and Rihanna herself, with production handled by Ball.
“Love on the Brain” is characterized by its soulful and retro-inspired sound, featuring lush instrumentation, including a prominent horn section, and Rihanna’s powerful and emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics depict the complexities of love, with Rihanna singing about the highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship.
Upon its release, “Love on the Brain” received widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised Rihanna’s vocal performance and the song’s emotional depth. The song became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in numerous countries and earning platinum certifications in several territories.
The music video for “Love on the Brain” features Rihanna performing the song live in front of an audience, showcasing her dynamic stage presence and commanding vocal delivery. The video received praise for its intimate and captivating portrayal of Rihanna’s performance.
“Love on the Brain” has since become one of Rihanna’s most beloved and enduring songs, often cited as a standout track on “Anti.” Its soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless ballad in Rihanna’s discography.
10. S&M
“S&M” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, released in 2011 as the fourth single from her fifth studio album, “Loud.”
“S&M” is an uptempo dance-pop and electro-pop song with provocative lyrics that explore themes of sexual empowerment and self-expression. The song features a catchy beat, infectious melody, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It became Rihanna’s tenth number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, further solidifying her status as one of the most successful artists of her generation.
The accompanying music video for “S&M,” directed by Melina Matsoukas, features Rihanna in various provocative and BDSM-inspired scenarios, surrounded by vibrant colors and imagery. The video received praise for its bold and daring visuals.
“S&M” has become one of Rihanna’s most controversial and iconic songs, sparking discussions about censorship and freedom of expression. Despite its controversial subject matter, the song’s catchy melody and infectious chorus have ensured its enduring popularity.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
