Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty on February 20, 1988, is a Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman who has left an indelible mark on the global music landscape. With a career spanning over two decades, she has become one of the best-selling music artists of all time, renowned for her versatile talent, captivating stage presence, and a string of chart-topping hits that have become anthems across generations.
This list aims to delve into the rich and varied musical catalog of Rihanna, showcasing the evolution of her artistry from her debut in the mid-2000s to her more recent ventures. Rihanna’s discography is a testament to her ability to seamlessly navigate through diverse genres, including pop, R&B, dancehall, and reggae, allowing her to resonate with audiences worldwide.
From her breakthrough single, “Pon de Replay,” which catapulted her to international fame in 2005, to the global phenomenon of “Umbrella” featuring Jay-Z, Rihanna has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and reinvention. Each song in this comprehensive list offers a glimpse into different facets of her life, emotions, and experiences, providing fans with a musical journey that mirrors the artist’s evolution.
As we explore this curated compilation of Rihanna’s songs, we witness not only her chart dominance but also her impact on popular culture. Her collaborations with renowned artists, powerful vocal performances, and thought-provoking lyrics have solidified her status as an influential figure in the music industry. Join us on this exploration of Rihanna’s musical legacy, a journey through melodies that have defined eras and left an indelible imprint on the hearts of millions around the globe.
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About Songs by Rihanna
Rihanna, the Barbadian-born musical powerhouse, has amassed an impressive and diverse collection of songs throughout her illustrious career. From her early days in the mid-2000s to her continued dominance in the global music scene, Rihanna’s discography is a testament to her versatility and evolution as an artist.
Beginning with her debut single “Pon de Replay” in 2005, Rihanna quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the pop and R&B genres. The infectious beats and catchy hooks of her early hits paved the way for a series of chart-toppers that would shape the landscape of contemporary music. Songs like “SOS,” “Unfaithful,” and “Don’t Stop the Music” showcased her ability to seamlessly blend different styles, earning her critical acclaim and a massive fan following.
As Rihanna’s career progressed, so did her exploration of diverse musical genres. Her collaboration with Jay-Z on “Umbrella” became a global anthem, and subsequent hits like “Disturbia,” “Rude Boy,” and “Only Girl (In the World)” solidified her status as a pop icon. The incorporation of Caribbean influences, evident in songs like “Man Down” and “Work,” added another layer to her musical identity, reflecting her Barbadian roots.
Beyond her solo endeavors, Rihanna’s collaborations with other artists, such as Eminem (“Love the Way You Lie”) and Calvin Harris (“We Found Love”), further showcased her ability to transcend genres and create chart-topping magic. Her more recent ventures into dancehall and reggae, as seen in songs like “Work” and “Needed Me,” highlight her commitment to staying at the forefront of musical innovation.
This compilation of Rihanna’s songs serves as a testament to her enduring influence and impact on the music industry. Each track is a chapter in her musical journey, inviting listeners to experience the growth, experimentation, and sheer brilliance that have defined her remarkable career. Whether delivering powerful ballads or infectious dance anthems, Rihanna’s songs continue to resonate with audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of contemporary music.
List of Songs by Rihanna
Creating an exhaustive list of all Rihanna’s songs would be impractical due to the vast number of tracks she has released throughout her career. However, here is a selection of some of her most notable and popular songs spanning various albums and collaborations:
- “Pon de Replay”
- “SOS”
- “Unfaithful”
- “Don’t Stop the Music”
- “Umbrella” (featuring Jay-Z)
- “Disturbia”
- “Rude Boy”
- “Only Girl (In the World)”
- “What’s My Name?” (featuring Drake)
- “S&M”
- “We Found Love” (featuring Calvin Harris)
- “Diamonds”
- “Stay” (featuring Mikky Ekko)
- “Pour It Up”
- “Work” (featuring Drake)
- “Love on the Brain”
- “Wild Thoughts” (with DJ Khaled and Bryson Tiller)
- “Lemon” (with N.E.R.D)
- “Needed Me”
- “Man Down”
These songs represent only a fraction of Rihanna’s extensive discography. She has released multiple albums, including “Music of the Sun,” “A Girl Like Me,” “Good Girl Gone Bad,” “Rated R,” “Loud,” “Talk That Talk,” “Unapologetic,” and “Anti.” Each album contributes to the rich tapestry of Rihanna’s musical legacy, showcasing her versatility and growth as an artist.
Rihanna’s Early Hits (2005-2007)
In the mid-2000s, Rihanna burst onto the music scene with infectious rhythms and a fresh sound that immediately captivated audiences worldwide. This period, spanning 2005 to 2007, marked the emergence of Rihanna’s early hits, laying the foundation for her illustrious career.
“Pon de Replay” (2005):
Rihanna’s debut single, “Pon de Replay,” was a dancehall-infused anthem that introduced the world to her distinctive voice and Caribbean influences. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus quickly propelled it to the top of the charts, signaling the arrival of a new pop sensation.
“If It’s Lovin’ That You Want” (2005):
Following the success of her debut, Rihanna continued to showcase her versatility with “If It’s Lovin’ That You Want.” The track featured a smoother R&B vibe, displaying her ability to navigate various genres effortlessly.
“SOS” (2006):
Sampling the iconic hook from Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love,” “SOS” was an irresistible blend of pop and dance. The song not only dominated the charts but also solidified Rihanna’s status as a pop sensation with an undeniable knack for crafting radio-friendly hits.
“Unfaithful” (2006):
Taking a more somber turn, “Unfaithful” showcased Rihanna’s emotive vocal range. The ballad explored themes of infidelity and heartbreak, revealing a depth to her artistry beyond the upbeat anthems that initially defined her career.
“Break It Off” (with Sean Paul) (2006):
Teaming up with dancehall artist Sean Paul, Rihanna delivered the infectious “Break It Off.” The collaboration seamlessly merged their Caribbean roots, creating a track that further expanded her musical repertoire.
“We Ride” (2006):
Demonstrating a softer side, “We Ride” was a melodic departure from Rihanna’s earlier hits. The song’s introspective lyrics and laid-back vibe showcased her ability to explore different moods within her music.
“Umbrella” (featuring Jay-Z) (2007):
Undoubtedly one of the most iconic songs of her career, “Umbrella” featuring Jay-Z became a global anthem. The track’s bold production, memorable hook, and Rihanna’s commanding vocals marked a turning point, solidifying her as a pop powerhouse.
This early phase of Rihanna’s career laid the groundwork for the years of success that followed. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres, from dancehall to R&B, showcased a versatility that hinted at the longevity of her impact on the music industry. The early hits not only reflected her Barbadian roots but also signaled the emergence of an artist destined for greatness.
Pop Dominance Chart-Toppers and Global Anthems (2007-2012)
The period from 2007 to 2012 marked Rihanna’s unparalleled pop dominance, as she consistently delivered chart-toppers and global anthems that defined the era. This phase in her career showcased not only her musical prowess but also her ability to shape and influence the contemporary pop landscape.
“Umbrella” (featuring Jay-Z) (2007):
The anthem that needs no introduction. “Umbrella” became a global sensation, dominating charts and airwaves. Rihanna’s powerful vocals, combined with the iconic “ella, ella, ella” refrain, solidified the song’s place in pop history.
“Shut Up and Drive” (2007):
Infused with rock influences, “Shut Up and Drive” showcased Rihanna’s versatility. The energetic and rebellious track became a driving force on the pop scene, adding another layer to her evolving musical identity.
“Don’t Stop the Music” (2007):
Sampling Michael Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” this dance-pop anthem was an infectious call to the dance floor. “Don’t Stop the Music” became a club favorite and a staple in Rihanna’s repertoire of hits.
“Hate That I Love You” (featuring Ne-Yo) (2007):
Teaming up with Ne-Yo, Rihanna delivered the soulful “Hate That I Love You.” The duet showcased the chemistry between the two artists and demonstrated Rihanna’s ability to convey vulnerability and emotion.
“Disturbia” (2008):
“Disturbia” brought a darker, edgier sound to Rihanna’s discography. The haunting lyrics and electrifying production contributed to the song’s widespread appeal, earning it a spot as one of her signature hits.
“Take a Bow” (2008):
A departure from the dance-driven tracks, “Take a Bow” highlighted Rihanna’s vocal strength and emotional depth. The ballad resonated with audiences and solidified her reputation as a versatile and emotive singer.
“Live Your Life” (with T.I.) (2008):
Collaborating with T.I., Rihanna contributed vocals to the hip-hop anthem “Live Your Life.” The song not only topped charts but also showcased her ability to seamlessly cross genres and collaborate with diverse artists.
“Rude Boy” (2010):
Returning to a more upbeat and Caribbean-infused sound, “Rude Boy” became a dancehall-pop anthem. Rihanna’s playful and confident delivery added a fresh dimension to her evolving musical style.
“Only Girl (In the World)” (2010):
This euphoric anthem marked a return to a more electronic-pop sound. “Only Girl (In the World)” showcased Rihanna’s ability to deliver powerful and anthemic choruses, earning her critical acclaim.
“S&M” (2011):
Addressing themes of fame and media scrutiny, “S&M” blended provocative lyrics with a catchy pop melody. The song sparked controversy but also became another chart-topping success for Rihanna.
“We Found Love” (featuring Calvin Harris) (2011):
Teaming up with Calvin Harris, Rihanna delivered the dance-pop sensation “We Found Love.” The song’s infectious energy and memorable hook dominated charts globally, solidifying her status as a pop icon.
This era marked Rihanna’s peak as a pop sensation, with each song contributing to her legacy as a chart-topping, boundary-pushing artist. The global anthems from this period remain timeless, capturing the essence of an artist at the height of her creative powers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rihanna’s real name?
Rihanna’s real name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty.
How many albums has Rihanna released?
Rihanna has released eight studio albums: “Music of the Sun” (2005), “A Girl Like Me” (2006), “Good Girl Gone Bad” (2007), “Rated R” (2009), “Loud” (2010), “Talk That Talk” (2011), “Unapologetic” (2012), and “Anti” (2016).
What are some of Rihanna’s business ventures?
Rihanna has ventured into various business endeavors, including her successful makeup line, Fenty Beauty, her lingerie line, Savage X Fenty, and her luxury fashion brand, Fenty.
Has Rihanna won any Grammy Awards?
Yes, Rihanna has won multiple Grammy Awards. As of my knowledge cutoff in January 2022, she has won nine Grammy Awards across various categories.
When did Rihanna start her music career?
Rihanna began her music career in 2005 with the release of her debut album, “Music of the Sun.” Her breakthrough single, “Pon de Replay,” quickly catapulted her to international fame.
Conclusion
Rihanna’s early hits from 2005 to 2007 marked the genesis of her extraordinary musical journey. From the infectious dancehall beats of “Pon de Replay” to the soulful ballad “Unfaithful,” this period showcased her versatility. The iconic “Umbrella” solidified her as a global pop sensation. These early hits not only reflected her Barbadian roots but also hinted at the diverse musical palette she would explore in the years to come. Rihanna’s ability to evolve and dominate various genres laid the foundation for a career that continues to shape the landscape of contemporary music.