Rihanna is one of the biggest and most influential music icons of our time. With her unique style, powerful vocals, and versatile sound, she has captured the hearts of millions of fans all around the world. Since her debut in 2005, Rihanna has released numerous hit songs that have topped charts and won awards. With such an impressive discography, it can be hard to narrow down the best of the best. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best Rihanna songs of all time.
From her early hits like “Pon de Replay” and “Umbrella” to her more recent tracks like “Work” and “Love on the Brain,” Rihanna has consistently delivered music that resonates with fans and stands the test of time. Each song on this list showcases Rihanna’s unique talent and highlights her evolution as an artist. Whether you’re a die-hard Rihanna fan or just a casual listener, this list is sure to provide a comprehensive look at some of the greatest songs in her impressive catalog. So without further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 best Rihanna songs of all time.
1. Diamonds
“Diamonds” is a powerful and uplifting song by Rihanna that was released in 2012. The track was written by Australian singer-songwriter Sia Furler and produced by Stargate and Benny Blanco. It features a captivating melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Rihanna’s signature powerhouse vocals. The song is about overcoming obstacles, finding strength in difficult times, and shining bright like a diamond. It has a universal message of hope and resilience that has resonated with fans all over the world. “Diamonds” topped charts in numerous countries and was a commercial and critical success. The song’s music video is also visually stunning, featuring beautiful imagery and powerful symbolism. “Diamonds” is not only one of Rihanna’s most successful songs but is also considered to be a pop music classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
2. Only Girl (In the World)
“Only Girl (In the World)” is a high-energy dance-pop song by Rihanna that was released in 2010. The track was written by Crystal Johnson, Sandy Vee, and Norwegian production team StarGate, who also produced the song. It features a catchy and upbeat melody, pulsing electronic beats, and Rihanna’s powerhouse vocals. The song is about being in love and feeling like the only girl in the world, with the lyrics expressing a strong desire for love and attention. “Only Girl (In the World)” became an instant hit and topped charts in several countries. Its music video is visually stunning, featuring vibrant colors and imagery that perfectly match the song’s energetic and upbeat vibe. The song is widely considered to be one of Rihanna’s most iconic and memorable hits, showcasing her incredible vocal range and undeniable talent as a pop superstar.
3. Umbrella
“Umbrella” is a massive hit song by Rihanna that was released in 2007. The track was written by Terius Nash, Christopher Stewart, and Shawn Carter (better known as Jay-Z), who also provides a guest rap verse on the song. It features a unique and instantly recognizable melody, memorable lyrics, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals. The song is about being there for someone through thick and thin, and the umbrella serves as a metaphor for protection and support. “Umbrella” quickly became a chart-topping hit and remains one of Rihanna’s most iconic songs to this day. Its music video, which features Rihanna dancing in the rain and performing alongside Jay-Z, is equally memorable and visually stunning. “Umbrella” cemented Rihanna’s status as a pop superstar and showcased her incredible talent as both a singer and performer.
4. Russian Roulette
“Russian Roulette” is a haunting ballad by Rihanna that was released in 2009. The track was written and produced by Norwegian production duo StarGate, with additional writing by Ne-Yo. It features a slow and somber melody, dark lyrics, and Rihanna’s emotive vocals. The song is about a toxic and dangerous relationship, with the title referring to the deadly game of chance. “Russian Roulette” showcases Rihanna’s ability to deliver a powerful and emotional performance, and it stands out as one of her most vulnerable and personal songs. The song’s music video is equally haunting, with images of Rihanna playing a deadly game of chance interspersed with scenes of her in a padded cell. “Russian Roulette” was a commercial and critical success, cementing Rihanna’s status as one of the most talented and versatile pop stars of her generation.
5. Love the Way You Lie
“Love the Way You Lie” is a powerful and emotional song by Rihanna, featuring Eminem, that was released in 2010. The track was written by Skylar Grey and produced by Alex da Kid. It features a haunting melody, raw and honest lyrics, and Rihanna’s and Eminem’s passionate and raw vocals. The song is about a toxic and abusive relationship, with the lyrics exploring the complex dynamics of love, passion, and violence. “Love the Way You Lie” is a deeply personal and powerful song that tackles a sensitive and important issue with honesty and sensitivity. The song’s music video, which features Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan, is equally powerful and emotional, portraying the struggles of a couple caught in a cycle of love and violence. “Love the Way You Lie” was a massive hit and remains one of Rihanna’s most impactful and memorable songs.
6. We Found Love
“We Found Love” is a vibrant and upbeat dance-pop song by Rihanna that was released in 2011. The track was written and produced by Scottish DJ and producer Calvin Harris. It features a catchy and infectious melody, pulsing electronic beats, and Rihanna’s energetic vocals. The song is about falling in love and the excitement and passion that comes with it, with the lyrics exploring the highs and lows of a new relationship. “We Found Love” was an instant hit and quickly topped charts around the world. Its music video, which features Rihanna and model Dudley O’Shaughnessy in a tumultuous and passionate relationship, is visually stunning and has become one of Rihanna’s most iconic videos. “We Found Love” showcases Rihanna’s incredible talent for delivering high-energy and catchy pop songs and cemented her status as one of the biggest and most influential pop stars of her generation.
7. Stay
“Stay” is a haunting and emotional ballad by Rihanna featuring Mikky Ekko that was released in 2013. The track was written and produced by Justin Parker and Ekko himself. It features a simple and stripped-down melody, poignant lyrics, and Rihanna’s powerful and emotive vocals. The song is about the struggle to hold on to love, even when it seems like everything is falling apart. “Stay” showcases Rihanna’s raw and vulnerable side, with her vocal performance conveying a deep sense of pain and longing. The song’s music video is equally emotional, with Rihanna performing the song in a bathtub filled with water. “Stay” was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its raw and emotional power, and it remains one of Rihanna’s most beloved and impactful songs.
8. Disturbia
“Disturbia” is a high-energy dance-pop song by Rihanna that was released in 2008. The track was written by Andre Merritt, Chris Brown, and Robert Allen, and produced by Brian Kennedy and StarGate. It features a pulsing electronic beat, catchy and memorable hooks, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals. The song is about being trapped in a world of madness and chaos, with the lyrics exploring themes of fear, paranoia, and mental instability. “Disturbia” quickly became a fan favorite and topped charts around the world. Its music video, which features Rihanna in a variety of elaborate and unsettling costumes and settings, is equally iconic and memorable. “Disturbia” showcases Rihanna’s ability to deliver high-energy and catchy pop songs while also exploring darker and more complex themes. It remains one of her most popular and impactful hits to this day.
9. What’s My Name?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-9EBTc0uk0
“What’s My Name?” is a fun and flirty song by Rihanna featuring Canadian rapper Drake that was released in 2010. The track was written by Ester Dean, Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, and Drake, with production by StarGate. It features a catchy and upbeat melody, playful lyrics, and Rihanna’s sweet and sultry vocals. The song is about the excitement and passion of a new romantic connection, with the lyrics exploring the thrill of getting to know someone intimately. “What’s My Name?” was a commercial success, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim for its infectious and playful vibe. Its music video, which features Rihanna and Drake flirting and dancing in a neon-lit cityscape, is equally charming and memorable. “What’s My Name?” showcases Rihanna’s talent for delivering fun and catchy pop songs and remains one of her most beloved and popular hits.
10. S&M
“S&M” is a provocative and edgy song by Rihanna that was released in 2011. The track was written by Sandy Vee, Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, and Rihanna herself, with production by StarGate. It features a pulsing electronic beat, provocative lyrics, and Rihanna’s bold and powerful vocals. The song is about the excitement and allure of sexual experimentation, with the lyrics exploring themes of dominance and submission. “S&M” was a commercial success, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim for its provocative and daring approach to pop music. Its music video, which features Rihanna in a variety of fetish-inspired outfits and settings, is equally bold and boundary-pushing. “S&M” showcases Rihanna’s talent for pushing the boundaries of what’s considered acceptable in pop music and remains one of her most daring and memorable hits.
Darren Jamison 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.
