On February 20, pop culture marks another milestone in the life of Rihanna, one of the most influential artists of the 21st century. From her early breakout with Caribbean-infused rhythms to global domination with boundary-shattering hits like “Umbrella”, she has not only topped charts but reshaped the landscape of modern music.
With more than 250 million records sold worldwide and a string of accolades that includes nine Grammy Awards and 14 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles, her career reflects both relentless reinvention and an uncanny ability to define the sound of her era.
Umbrella (2007)
Umbrella is widely considered the song that propelled Rihanna into global superstardom, transforming her image from rising Caribbean pop act into an edgy cultural icon. Led by that unforgettable hook — “ella, ella, eh, eh, eh” — and featuring Jay-Z, it topped charts in 19 countries, including the U.S. and the U.K.
Its success redefined her aesthetic and set the tone for her seminal Good Girl Gone Bad era, marking a seismic shift in mainstream pop consciousness toward a more confident, genre-bending sound.
We Found Love (2011)
A collaboration with Calvin Harris, We Found Love became one of Rihanna’s biggest chart successes: it ruled the Billboard Hot 100 for 10 non-consecutive weeks, longer than any of her other singles.
The EDM-infused banger juxtaposes a euphoric production with lyrics about finding love “in a hopeless place,” capturing a blend of pop euphoria and emotional contradiction that defined early 2010s pop and solidified her as a dominant crossover force.
Diamonds (2012)
With its glowing, mid-tempo production and metaphorical imagery, Diamonds marked a bold artistic turn for Rihanna. Certified diamond, the ballad showcased her vocal depth and emotional nuance, offering something far removed from her dance tracks while proving her versatility as a performer.
It became one of the defining pop ballads of the 2010s, strengthening her reputation not just as a hitmaker, but also as an artist capable of profound emotional resonance.
Work (2016)
A return to Caribbean roots with slick dancehall inflections, Work featuring Drake became an anthem of minimalist rhythm and cultural pride. Its patois-tinged chorus and hypnotic groove helped it dominate charts globally for weeks, while critics and fans praised its celebration of Caribbean sound within mainstream pop. The track’s success underscored Rihanna’s ability to bring her heritage into worldwide musical conversation.
SOS (2006)
One of Rihanna’s earliest worldwide hits, SOS sampled Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love” and became her first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1, spending three weeks atop the chart and becoming a dance-floor staple across the U.S. and Australia.
The hook’s blend of infectious nostalgia and innovative pop sensibility marked an early turning point in her crossover appeal, cementing her place in mainstream radio early in her career.
Rihanna performs onstage during the 95th Annual Academy Awards in 2023 (Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Only Girl (In the World) (2010)
As the lead single from Loud, Only Girl (In the World) amplified Rihanna’s status as the undisputed queen of dance-pop. A euphoric declaration of wanting love intensely and unabashedly, the track topped global charts and won a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording. Its over-the-top production and celebratory energy made it a stadium favorite and a definitive club anthem of its era.
Stay (2012)
Stay stripped back the gloss and showcased a raw, intimate side of Rihanna’s artistry. Featuring Mikky Ekko, the tender piano ballad became a standout moment on Unapologetic, praised for its emotional honesty and simplicity. Its universal theme of vulnerability and longing made it a favorite across both critics and listeners.
Pon de Replay (2005)
Rihanna’s debut single announced her arrival with a blast of Caribbean rhythm. Pon de Replay infused dancehall and pop in a way that immediately captured global attention, peaking high on charts and establishing her as a fresh voice from Barbados with international appeal. Its irresistible groove created early momentum that fueled a prolific and influential career.
Take a Bow (2008)
A poignant and emotionally direct breakup ballad, Take a Bow topped the Billboard Hot 100, resonating with listeners for its mix of resignation and quiet strength. The song’s elegant production and relatable narrative helped position Rihanna not just as a star of club hits, but as a compelling interpreter of emotional complexity.
Love on the Brain (2016)
Drawing on classic soul and doo-wop influences, Love on the Brain stands apart from many of Rihanna’s more electronic pop staples. Its retro sensibility and heartfelt delivery showcased a more vulnerable vocal performance, illustrating her range and emotional depth. The track became a staple for both critics and fans looking for a more mature, expressive side of her catalog.
