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 quickly became one of the most successful and influential artists in the music industry.
Rihanna’s music spans various genres, including pop, R&B, reggae, and hip hop. Throughout her career, she has released numerous hit singles and albums, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Some of her most famous songs include “Umbrella,” “Diamonds,” “We Found Love,” and “Work.”
In addition to her music career, Rihanna has ventured into acting, appearing in films such as “Battleship” (2012), “Ocean’s 8” (2018), and “Guava Island” (2019). She has also achieved success as a fashion designer and entrepreneur, launching her own makeup brand, Fenty Beauty, and lingerie line, Savage X Fenty.
Rihanna is known for her distinctive voice, bold fashion sense, and philanthropic efforts. She has won numerous awards throughout her career, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has been recognized for her advocacy work on issues such as education, health, and human rights.
Overall, Rihanna’s impact on music, fashion, and culture has been significant, solidifying her status as one of the most influential figures of her generation.
1. 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 Esther Dean, with production handled by Eriksen and Hermansen, also known as the Norwegian production duo Stargate.
“Only Girl (In the World)” is an uptempo dance-pop and electro-house song that features pulsating synths, a driving beat, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, the song expresses themes of love and desire, with Rihanna singing about wanting to be the center of attention and feeling like the only girl in the world to her partner.
Upon its release, “Only Girl (In the World)” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, including the United States, where it became Rihanna’s ninth number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its catchy melody, infectious energy, and Rihanna’s vocal performance.
“Only Girl (In the World)” earned Rihanna several awards and nominations, including a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording in 2011. The song’s accompanying music video features Rihanna in various colorful and extravagant settings, further enhancing its appeal and cementing its status as one of Rihanna’s signature hits.
2. 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.” The song is an uptempo electropop and dance-pop song with dark and eerie undertones.
“Disturbia” explores themes of inner turmoil and psychological unrest. The lyrics describe a sense of paranoia and fear, with references to being trapped in one’s mind and feeling like a prisoner of one’s thoughts. The song’s title is a play on the word “disturbance,” reflecting the song’s unsettling and chaotic nature.
Musically, “Disturbia” features a pulsating beat, synthesizers, and distorted vocals, creating a tense and edgy atmosphere. The song’s production is dark and moody, with a hypnotic quality that draws listeners in.
“Disturbia” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries. The song’s music video, which features Rihanna in various dark and surreal scenes, received critical acclaim for its artistic and visually striking imagery. “Disturbia” remains one of Rihanna’s most popular and memorable songs.
3. S&M
“S&M” is a song by Rihanna from her fifth studio album, “Loud,” released in 2010. The song was written by Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, Sandy Wilhelm, Ester Dean, and Rihanna herself, with production handled by Eriksen and Hermansen, also known as the Norwegian production duo Stargate.
“S&M” is an uptempo dance-pop and electro-pop song with elements of synth-pop. Lyrically, the song explores themes of sexual desire, dominance, and submission, with Rihanna expressing her enjoyment of various BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism, and masochism) activities.
Upon its release, “S&M” was met with commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and becoming one of Rihanna’s most successful singles. However, the song also sparked controversy due to its explicit lyrics and themes, leading to censorship and bans in some countries.
Despite the controversy, “S&M” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its catchy melody, infectious beat, and Rihanna’s confident vocal delivery. The song’s accompanying music video, directed by Melina Matsoukas, features provocative imagery and BDSM-inspired scenes, further fueling the controversy surrounding the song.
“S&M” remains one of Rihanna’s signature hits and has since become a staple of her live performances. It has also inspired numerous remixes and covers by other artists, solidifying its impact on popular culture.
4. Umbrella (feat. Jay-Z)
“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.” The song is a pop and R&B ballad with elements of hip hop and rock.
“Umbrella” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the charts in multiple countries. The song’s lyrics metaphorically describe providing protection and support to a loved one, using an umbrella as a symbol of shelter from the rain.
Musically, “Umbrella” features a distinctive guitar riff and a catchy chorus, with Rihanna’s powerful vocals and Jay-Z’s rap verse adding to the song’s appeal. The song’s production is polished and modern, with a memorable melody and strong hooks.
“Umbrella” received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and catchy lyrics, and it won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. The song’s music video, which features Rihanna in various glamorous outfits and settings, also received praise for its stylish and visually striking imagery. “Umbrella” remains one of Rihanna’s most iconic songs and a classic of 2000s pop music.
5. We Found Love (feat. Calvin Harris)
“We Found Love” is a song by Rihanna featuring Scottish DJ and record producer Calvin Harris. Released in 2011 as the lead single from Rihanna’s sixth studio album, “Talk That Talk,” the song was written and produced by Calvin Harris.
“We Found Love” is an uptempo dance-pop and electro house song with elements of Europop and techno. Lyrically, the song tells the story of a passionate and tumultuous romantic relationship, with Rihanna singing about the highs and lows of falling in love.
Upon its release, “We Found Love” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in over 25 countries, including the United States, where it became Rihanna’s eleventh number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for its catchy melody, infectious beat, and Rihanna’s emotive vocal performance.
The accompanying music video for “We Found Love,” directed by Melina Matsoukas, features Rihanna and British model Dudley O’Shaughnessy portraying a couple engaged in a passionate and sometimes volatile relationship. The video received positive reviews for its visual imagery and storytelling, but also generated controversy due to its depiction of drug use and domestic violence.
“We Found Love” has since become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and a staple of her live performances. It has also earned numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video in 2013. The song’s enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its status as a modern pop classic.
6. Diamonds
“Diamonds” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2012 as the lead single from her seventh studio album, “Unapologetic.” The song is an uptempo pop and dance-pop track with elements of electronic and R&B music.
“Diamonds” features lyrics that celebrate inner strength and resilience, using diamonds as a metaphor for inner beauty and strength. The song’s chorus, which repeats the line “Shine bright like a diamond,” has become iconic and is often associated with the song.
Musically, “Diamonds” features a lush production with electronic beats, synths, and a powerful vocal performance by Rihanna. The song’s melody is catchy and uplifting, with a driving rhythm that makes it a popular choice for dance floors.
“Diamonds” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the charts in multiple countries. The song received critical acclaim for its positive message and Rihanna’s vocal performance, with many critics praising it as one of her best songs. “Diamonds” has since become one of Rihanna’s signature songs and is considered a modern pop classic.
7. Stay (feat. Mikky Ekko)
“Stay” is a song by Rihanna featuring American singer-songwriter Mikky Ekko. Released in 2013 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 a piano-driven ballad with minimalist production, showcasing Rihanna’s emotive vocals and vulnerable delivery. Lyrically, the song explores themes of love, longing, and vulnerability, with Rihanna singing about wanting her partner to stay with her and provide comfort and support.
Upon its release, “Stay” received widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised Rihanna’s raw and emotional performance, as well as the song’s stripped-down production and haunting melody. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top five in numerous countries and earning platinum certifications in several markets.
The accompanying music video for “Stay” features Rihanna in a bathtub, singing the song with tears streaming down her face, creating a raw and intimate visual portrayal of the song’s themes. The video received praise for its simplicity and emotional impact, further enhancing the song’s popularity.
“Stay” has since become one of Rihanna’s most beloved and iconic songs, earning accolades for its powerful vocals, emotional resonance, and timeless appeal. It remains a fan favorite and a highlight of Rihanna’s live performances.
8. Work (feat. Drake)
“Work” is a song by Rihanna featuring Drake, released in 2016 as the lead single from her eighth studio album, “Anti.” The song is a dancehall and R&B track with elements of reggae and hip hop.
“Work” features a repetitive chorus and catchy melody, with Rihanna and Drake singing about the complexities of a romantic relationship. The song’s lyrics describe the ups and downs of love and the challenges of communication.
Musically, “Work” is characterized by its laid-back beat, Caribbean influences, and Rihanna’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song’s production is minimalistic, with a focus on the rhythm and melody.
“Work” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s music video, which features Rihanna and Drake dancing in a dimly lit club, received praise for its intimate and sensual vibe.
“Work” is praised for its infectious beat and Rihanna and Drake’s chemistry, making it one of the standout tracks from “Anti” and a fan favorite.
9. Love on the Brain
“Love on the Brain” is a song by Rihanna from her eighth studio album, “Anti,” released in 2016. The song was written by Fred Ball, Joseph Angel, and Rihanna herself, with production handled by Ball.
“Love on the Brain” is a soulful and emotional ballad with elements of doo-wop and R&B. Lyrically, the song explores the theme of love and the complexities of romantic relationships. Rihanna’s powerful and soulful vocals convey a sense of longing, pain, and vulnerability as she sings about being deeply in love with someone who may not treat her well.
Upon its release, “Love on the Brain” received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for Rihanna’s vocal performance and the song’s retro-inspired production. Despite not being released as an official single in most territories, the song achieved commercial success, reaching the top 10 on various charts around the world.
The song’s soulful and emotive qualities have resonated with audiences, and “Love on the Brain” has become one of Rihanna’s most beloved and acclaimed songs. It has been performed live by Rihanna on several occasions and remains a standout track on “Anti.”
10. Don’t Stop the Music
“Don’t Stop the Music” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2007 as the fourth single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.” The song is an uptempo dance-pop and electro house track with influences of funk and disco.
“Don’t Stop the Music” features a prominent sample of Michael Jackson’s song “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” which provides the basis for the song’s infectious groove. The lyrics of “Don’t Stop the Music” celebrate the joy of dancing and the freedom of letting go on the dance floor.
Musically, “Don’t Stop the Music” is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and Rihanna’s energetic vocals. The song’s production is polished and modern, with a pulsating beat and electronic elements that make it a popular choice for clubs and parties.
“Don’t Stop the Music” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song received critical acclaim for its infectious sound and Rihanna’s confident performance, solidifying its status as one of her signature songs.
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.
