Rihanna ranks #2 on Billboard’s Top 100 Women Artists of the 21st Century
Rihanna’s Impact on the 21st Century Music Landscape
Rihanna, the global pop sensation and business mogul, has solidified her place in music history, earning a prestigious ranking of #2 in Billboard’s Top 100 Women Artists of the 21st Century. Behind only Taylor Swift, Rihanna’s remarkable career spans music, business, and fashion, making her one of the most influential women in modern entertainment. With her catchy hits, record-breaking albums, entrepreneurial ventures, and humanitarian efforts, Rihanna has undeniably shaped the music industry and continues to set trends worldwide. Let’s dive deeper into her career and accomplishments that have earned her this ranking.
Rihanna’s Rise to Stardom: From Caribbean Roots to Global Icon
Born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in Barbados, Rihanna’s musical journey began in her teenage years when she was discovered by music producer Evan Rogers. Signing with Def Jam Recordings in 2005, she quickly found success with her debut album, Music of the Sun, and its follow-up, A Girl Like Me. Both albums featured elements of Caribbean music, marking the early stages of her unique sound.
However, it was Rihanna’s third album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007), that launched her into superstardom. The album, which incorporated dance-pop elements, produced her first worldwide hit, “Umbrella,” solidifying her place in the upper echelons of pop music. This song not only topped charts but also earned Rihanna her first Grammy Award, setting the tone for her career full of hits and accolades.
Rihanna’s Chart-Topping Success: Record-Breaking Achievements
Rihanna’s success continued as she released a string of albums that dominated the charts and left an indelible mark on the industry. Her fourth album, Rated R (2009), introduced a darker, edgier side of Rihanna’s artistry, while Loud (2010) brought more vibrant pop sounds, producing hits like “Only Girl (In the World)” and “What’s My Name?” Each of her albums showcased a willingness to evolve and experiment with different genres, including R&B, pop, and dance, making her an unparalleled force in the music world.
Rihanna’s chart success is undeniable: She holds the record for the most number-one singles by a female artist on the Billboard Hot 100, with 14 hits reaching the top of the chart. Her singles, including “We Found Love,” “Diamonds,” and “Work,” became anthems across the globe. Furthermore, she has seven U.S. Diamond-certified singles, cementing her legacy as one of the best-selling female recording artists of the 21st century.
Rihanna’s influence on music is further evidenced by her ability to blend various styles and create timeless songs that resonate with a wide range of audiences. From reggae influences to pop anthems, Rihanna’s diverse sound has set trends in the industry, making her one of the most versatile artists of her generation.
Rihanna’s Business Acumen: Fenty Beauty and Fashion Icon
While Rihanna is best known for her music, her business ventures have proven just as transformative. In 2017, she launched Fenty Beauty, a cosmetics line that revolutionized the beauty industry with its inclusive range of shades for all skin tones. Fenty Beauty’s success was immediate, and it quickly became one of the top cosmetic brands globally, earning Rihanna millions and further solidifying her as a mogul. Fenty Beauty’s massive success also earned her the title of the highest-certified female digital single artist by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America).
Not content with just cosmetics, Rihanna expanded her brand with Fenty, a luxury fashion house under the LVMH umbrella. She became the first woman of color to lead an LVMH brand, breaking barriers and setting new standards in the fashion world. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rihanna continued to innovate with her Savage x Fenty lingerie line, which has gained widespread recognition for its inclusivity and boundary-pushing designs.
Rihanna’s strategic approach to her business ventures demonstrates her ability to build lasting, profitable brands while maintaining her artistic vision. She is not only an entertainer but also a savvy entrepreneur, using her platform to push for diversity and inclusivity in industries that have traditionally lacked representation.
Rihanna’s Humanitarian Efforts: A Voice for the Underrepresented
Beyond her business ventures and musical career, Rihanna has consistently used her platform to advocate for important social causes. Through her Clara Lionel Foundation, she has supported global education, emergency response programs, and healthcare initiatives. Rihanna has also been a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and various other social justice initiatives, proving that her influence extends far beyond entertainment.
Rihanna’s philanthropy is further exemplified by her involvement in disaster relief efforts, such as her support for Hurricane Irma victims in her native Barbados and other parts of the Caribbean. Her commitment to using her success for positive change is a key aspect of her legacy, demonstrating that she is a leader both in and outside of the music industry.
Rihanna’s Iconic Performances: From the Super Bowl to the Oscars
In 2023, Rihanna returned to the spotlight with a highly anticipated live performance at the Super Bowl LVII halftime show. This marked her first live performance in over five years and the end of her self-imposed hiatus from the event, which she had boycotted in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick. The performance, which was watched by over 121 million viewers, became the most-watched halftime show in history, surpassing previous records.
Rihanna’s performance was met with critical acclaim, and her halftime show was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), further solidifying her place as one of the greatest live performers of all time. Her ability to captivate an audience and deliver powerful performances continues to be a hallmark of her career.
In addition to her Super Bowl performance, Rihanna made a triumphant return to music in 2022 with “Lift Me Up,” a track from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. The song earned her nominations for both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award. Further showcasing her continued relevance in the music and entertainment industry.
Rihanna’s Personal Life: Motherhood and Relationships
Rihanna’s personal life has also garnered significant media attention. Especially her relationship with American rapper A$AP Rocky. The couple confirmed their relationship in 2021, and Rihanna gave birth to their first child later that year. In 2023, she welcomed their second child and made history by becoming the first person to headline a Super Bowl halftime show while pregnant.
Her openness about her journey into motherhood, her commitment to her family, and her balanced approach to her career have resonated with fans around the world, further enhancing her influence as a role model and cultural icon.
Rihanna’s Legacy: A Global Icon for the 21st Century
Rihanna’s ranking at #2 on Billboard’s Top 100 Women Artists of the 21st Century is a testament to her extraordinary contributions to the music industry. In addition to her groundbreaking entrepreneurial ventures, and her impactful humanitarian efforts. As one of the best-selling artists of all time, Rihanna’s influence spans multiple industries. Ranging from music and fashion to beauty and philanthropy.
Her ability to constantly reinvent herself makes her an influential cultural icon of the 21st century. Whether it’s her chart-topping hits or her fashion innovation Rihanna’s legacy is one of excellence. In addition to resilience, and trailblazing achievement.