Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in 1988, is a Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman. She rose to fame in the mid-2000s with hits like “Pon de Replay,” “SOS,” and “Umbrella,” which established her as a global pop icon. Known for her versatile vocal range and distinctive style, Rihanna has consistently pushed the boundaries of pop and R&B music.
Throughout her career, Rihanna has released numerous successful albums, including “Good Girl Gone Bad,” “Rated R,” “Loud,” and “Anti.” Her music often blends elements of dancehall, reggae, hip hop, and EDM, reflecting her Caribbean roots and diverse musical influences. Rihanna’s powerful voice, charisma, and bold fashion sense have garnered her widespread acclaim and numerous awards.
Beyond music, Rihanna has ventured into acting and entrepreneurship. She has launched successful business ventures in fashion, cosmetics, and lingerie, including her widely popular Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty brands. Rihanna’s influence extends beyond music and fashion, as she has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy for social causes.
Overall, Rihanna continues to be a dominant force in music and popular culture, known for her artistic evolution, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to empowering diverse voices in the industry.
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 is an upbeat dance-pop anthem that showcases Rihanna’s powerful vocals and infectious energy. “Only Girl (In the World)” features pulsating electronic beats, euphoric synths, and a catchy chorus that celebrates feeling special and desired.
Lyrically, the song expresses themes of love and devotion, with Rihanna singing about wanting to be the center of attention and feeling like the only girl in her lover’s world. The song’s vibrant production and Rihanna’s dynamic performance helped it become a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim.
“Only Girl (In the World)” solidified Rihanna’s status as a dominant force in pop music and highlighted her ability to deliver high-energy anthems that resonate with listeners. The song remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Rihanna’s extensive discography, known for its memorable hooks and irresistible dance appeal.
2. Disturbia
“Disturbia” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2008 as a single from the re-release of her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded.” Written by Andre Merritt, Chris Brown, Robert Allen, and produced by Brian Kennedy, the song is known for its dark, edgy theme and electronic pop sound.
Lyrically, “Disturbia” delves into themes of anxiety, confusion, and mental distress. The song’s protagonist describes feeling trapped and overwhelmed by an unsettling, almost nightmarish mental state. The lyrics vividly portray a sense of unease and disturbance, aligning with the song’s title.
Musically, “Disturbia” features a pulsating beat, eerie synths, and a catchy chorus, creating a tense and haunting atmosphere. Rihanna’s powerful vocals convey the urgency and intensity of the song’s themes, enhancing its emotional impact. The production incorporates elements of dance-pop and electro-pop, making it a standout track on the dance floor and on radio.
“Disturbia” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of Rihanna’s iconic hits. Its distinctive style and memorable hook have made it a lasting favorite among fans and a highlight in Rihanna’s discography.
3. S&M
“S&M” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2011 as the fourth single from her fifth studio album, “Loud.” The song was written by Stargate, Sandy Vee, Ester Dean, and co-written by Rihanna, and it is known for its provocative lyrics and high-energy dance-pop sound.
Lyrically, “S&M” explores themes of sexual dominance and submission, with a playful and bold approach to topics of pleasure and pain. The song’s chorus, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but chains and whips excite me,” encapsulates its provocative nature, celebrating sexual freedom and the thrill of unconventional desires.
Musically, “S&M” features an upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and a pulsating dance beat. The production is characterized by its electro-pop elements, with driving synths and a dynamic rhythm that make it a club anthem. Rihanna’s confident and sultry vocal delivery adds to the song’s bold and unapologetic tone.
“S&M” was a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and receiving significant airplay. Its accompanying music video, directed by Melina Matsoukas, further pushed boundaries with its vivid and controversial imagery, drawing both praise and criticism for its bold representation of the song’s themes.
Overall, “S&M” is a standout track in Rihanna’s discography, known for its daring lyrics, infectious beat, and its celebration of sexual liberation.
4. Umbrella (feat. Jay-Z)
“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 is a pop and R&B anthem characterized by its catchy chorus, upbeat tempo, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals. Jay-Z’s rap verse adds a dynamic element to the song, enhancing its urban appeal.
“Umbrella” became a global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of Rihanna’s signature songs. The song’s lyrics metaphorically speak about standing by someone’s side through difficult times, offering protection and support like an umbrella. The metaphor of the umbrella represents strength, loyalty, and resilience in relationships.
The song’s infectious melody, memorable hook (“ella, ella, ella”), and Rihanna’s confident delivery contributed to its massive success. “Umbrella” earned critical acclaim, multiple awards, and cemented Rihanna’s status as a pop icon. It remains one of the most iconic and commercially successful songs in modern pop music history, showcasing Rihanna’s ability to deliver both emotive ballads and energetic anthems.
5. We Found Love (feat. Calvin Harris)
“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 is known for its upbeat electronic dance-pop sound and catchy hooks.
Lyrically, “We Found Love” explores the euphoria and excitement of new love. The lyrics depict a passionate and intense relationship, celebrating the exhilarating feeling of finding love against all odds. The song’s chorus, “We found love in a hopeless place,” emphasizes the unexpected nature of love and its ability to flourish even in challenging circumstances.
Musically, “We Found Love” features Calvin Harris’s signature production style, with pulsating beats, synthesizers, and a euphoric dance floor-ready vibe. Rihanna’s vocals are dynamic and emotive, capturing the song’s themes of love, freedom, and euphoria.
“We Found Love” became a global hit, topping charts in numerous countries and receiving critical acclaim for its infectious energy and memorable melody. Its music video, directed by Melina Matsoukas, further enhanced its popularity with its visually striking imagery and portrayal of a turbulent yet passionate relationship. The song remains one of Rihanna’s biggest hits and is celebrated for its impact on pop and dance music culture.
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 upbeat pop and EDM track characterized by its catchy melody, uplifting lyrics, and Rihanna’s emotive vocals.
“Diamonds” was well-received by critics and became a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries worldwide. The song’s lyrics metaphorically compare love to diamonds, highlighting its preciousness, endurance, and strength. Rihanna sings about finding love that shines bright like a diamond and celebrating its beauty and resilience.
The song’s production features pulsating electronic beats, ethereal synths, and Rihanna’s powerful vocal performance, creating an anthemic and euphoric atmosphere. “Diamonds” showcases Rihanna’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with contemporary electronic music trends, further solidifying her status as a versatile and influential artist in the music industry.
Overall, “Diamonds” remains a fan favorite and a significant highlight in Rihanna’s discography, known for its empowering lyrics, infectious melody, and enduring appeal.
7. Stay (feat. Mikky Ekko)
“Stay” is a song by Rihanna featuring Mikky Ekko, released in 2013 as the second single from her album “Unapologetic.” The song is a heartfelt ballad characterized by its stripped-down production, emotional lyrics, and Rihanna’s raw and vulnerable vocal performance.
“Stay” explores themes of longing, heartache, and vulnerability in relationships. The lyrics express a plea for emotional connection and the desire to stay close to someone despite challenges and uncertainties. Mikky Ekko’s harmonies complement Rihanna’s vocals, adding depth and emotion to the song’s narrative.
The song’s minimalist piano arrangement and haunting melody create an intimate and atmospheric mood, showcasing Rihanna’s ability to convey raw emotion through her music. “Stay” received positive reviews from critics and became a commercial success, topping charts in several countries.
“Stay” remains one of Rihanna’s most acclaimed and emotionally resonant songs, demonstrating her versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with listeners on a personal level through her powerful vocal delivery and poignant storytelling.
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 was written by PartyNextDoor, Drake, Rihanna, and Boi-1da, among others, and is known for its dancehall and reggae-inspired sound.
Lyrically, “Work” explores themes of love, desire, and connection. The song’s repetitive lyrics and infectious chorus emphasize the joy and satisfaction of being with a romantic partner, with Rihanna and Drake trading verses and choruses that playfully highlight their chemistry and attraction.
Musically, “Work” features a rhythmic beat, Caribbean-flavored instrumentation, and Rihanna’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song incorporates elements of dancehall and reggae, creating a laid-back yet energetic vibe that encourages movement and dancing.
“Work” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping charts in multiple countries. Its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Rihanna’s charismatic performance contributed to its popularity. The song’s music video, directed by Director X, further enhanced its appeal with its vibrant visuals and dance sequences, showcasing Rihanna’s ability to blend cultural influences with contemporary pop music.
Overall, “Work” remains a standout track in Rihanna’s discography, celebrated for its infectious charm, cultural impact, and the chemistry between Rihanna and Drake.
9. Love on the Brain
“Love on the Brain” is a song by Rihanna, released in 2016 as part of her album “Anti.” The song is a soulful ballad characterized by its retro-inspired production, powerful vocals, and emotive lyrics.
“Love on the Brain” explores themes of passionate love, vulnerability, and emotional intensity. The song’s lyrics express a yearning for deep connection and the highs and lows of being in a tumultuous relationship. Rihanna’s soulful and gritty vocal performance adds emotional depth to the song, highlighting her vocal versatility and emotive delivery.
The song’s production features lush instrumentation, including soulful piano chords, sweeping strings, and a classic R&B arrangement that pays homage to vintage soul music. “Love on the Brain” received acclaim from critics for its nostalgic sound and Rihanna’s compelling vocal performance.
As one of the standout tracks on “Anti,” “Love on the Brain” has resonated with listeners for its raw honesty, soulful melodies, and evocative storytelling, further solidifying Rihanna’s reputation as a powerhouse vocalist and influential artist in contemporary pop and R&B music.
10. Don’t Stop the Music
“Don’t Stop the Music” is a dance-pop song by Rihanna, released in 2007 as the fourth single from her third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad.” The song was written by Tawanna Dabney, Michael Jackson, and others, with production by StarGate and additional writing by Rihanna herself.
Lyrically, “Don’t Stop the Music” celebrates the joy and liberation of dancing and partying all night long. The lyrics invite listeners to let loose and enjoy the moment, with Rihanna’s vocals conveying a sense of excitement and energy. The chorus, “Please don’t stop the music,” encapsulates the song’s upbeat and infectious vibe.
Musically, “Don’t Stop the Music” features a sample of Michael Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” and incorporates elements of dance-pop, house, and electro music. The song is characterized by its pulsating beats, catchy hooks, and vibrant synths, creating an irresistible dance floor anthem.
“Don’t Stop the Music” was a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming one of Rihanna’s signature hits. Its lively production and Rihanna’s dynamic performance contributed to its popularity, making it a favorite among fans and a staple in clubs and parties worldwide. The song’s music video, directed by Taj Stansberry, further enhanced its appeal with its energetic choreography and stylish visuals, solidifying its status as a classic in Rihanna’s catalog.
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.
