Rihanna’s ‘Anti’ Celebrates 10 Years: Her Reign in Pop Endures
Rihanna’s “Anti” marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Released in January 2016, it was a defining moment in her career that showcased her evolution as an artist. During this period, she cemented her status in pop music with a string of hits and an influential presence.
Rihanna’s Impact on Pop Music
From her early prolific hits like “Pon de Replay” in 2005, Rihanna quickly rose to iconic status. Her songs dominated the charts throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s.
- “Work” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks.
- “This Is What You Came For” reached Number Three.
- “Needed Me” remains her longest-charting single at 45 weeks.
Other notable tracks, such as “Kiss It Better,” “Sex With Me,” and “Love on the Brain,” contributed to her illustrious tenure in pop music.
The Legacy of “Anti”
“Anti” is not just an album; it represents Rihanna’s journey into deeper musicality and authenticity. With its unique sound and emotional depth, it has endured on the Billboard 200 for over 500 weeks. While absence from the music scene has been felt, Rihanna’s influence continues to loom large. In 2023, she was nominated for an Academy Award for her song “Lift Me Up” from *Black Panther: Wakanda Forever*.
Changing the Landscape
With the rise of her business ventures, including Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty, Rihanna has redefined what it means to be a pop star. Fenty Beauty has significantly impacted the makeup industry, valued between $1 billion and $2 billion, and is praised for its inclusive product range.
- In 2021, Savage x Fenty also reached a valuation of $1 billion.
- The brand’s fashion show has showcased various artists, emphasizing body positivity and diversity.
Influence on Contemporary Artists
Post-“Anti,” pop music has been shaped by artists who draw inspiration from Rihanna. Musicians including Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish cite her as an influence. Ed Sheeran remarked on how many of his own songs are penned with Rihanna in mind, highlighting her far-reaching impact on the industry.
Even as other artists emerge, the essence of Rihanna’s artistry remains a standard in pop music. Her recent collaboration with DJ Khaled on “Wild Thoughts” and her return to the charts indicate that she is never too far from the music scene.
The Future of Rihanna in Music
While fans eagerly await her next album, dubbed “R9,” it’s clear that Rihanna is in a class of her own. Her confidence and resilience in the face of industry pressure set her apart. As we celebrate the 10-year reign of “Anti,” it is evident that Rihanna continues to lead the pop landscape.
With her willingness to break the mold, time away from music only amplifies her allure. As she declares in “Desperado,” her connection to music and her audience will always be unwavering: “There ain’t no leaving me behind.”
