As one of the most successful singers of all time Barbadian international star Rihanna remains connected to global pop culture even though she has not released an album since “Anti” in 2016.
The Entrepreneur, Trendsetter, Humanitarian, and Icon burst onto the mainstream at just 17 with her debut single “Pon de Replay,” she embarked on a trajectory toward global stardom. Now celebrating her 36th birthday today, Rihanna boasts a myriad of impressive accomplishments—ranking as the most successful artist on Billboard’s Pop Songs Chart in 2017, to pioneering a multi-billion dollar beauty empire, and clinching nine Grammy Awards along the way, to name a few.
Beyond her staggering success, Rihanna is revered for her commanding stage presence, impeccable fashion sense, and unapologetic “Bad Gal Riri” attitude, she exudes a sense of cool confidence that effortlessly permeates her every endeavor.
As we celebrate the birthday of the “Lift Me Up” Billionaire Beauty, WMV reflects on five of her most iconic moments in pop culture history, each encapsulating her undeniable influence and indomitable spirit.
| Met Gala in 2015.
In 2015, Rihanna captivated the Met Gala red carpet with a striking imperial yellow gown crafted by Guo Pei. The awe inspiring gown’s extravagant train was palpable as she exclaimed, “I’m so in love with this dress, but the train is insane!” The gown, a labor of love by a Chinese artisan Guo Pei, made over two years, was a departure from Met convention but being the rebel she is, Rihanna opted for a Chinese couturier design.
Guo Pei said her intention for the dress was to illuminate China’s rich heritage, stating, “It is my responsibility to let the world know China’s tradition and past, and to give the splendor of China a new expression.” This unforgettable moment in fashion history underscored the power of couture to transcend boundaries and captivate global attention, echoing Rihanna’s sentiment that “the focus and the attention paid to this dress will make it remembered by the world.”
| Rihanna vs Paparazzi
Ever since she has been on the scene, the Paparazzi has developed a love affair with Rihanna’s every move but in 2023, Rihanna drew the line fiercely defended her son’s privacy after paparazzi photos of him surfaced online. With Barbados mom style protective instinct, she stated, “Like there wasn’t even time for rage.” She said, sending out the first images of her son to Hollywood Unlocked and making her first TikTok post because she was aware of the paparazzi’s pursuit.
Rihanna made it clear that she wanted parental authority in deciding when and how to introduce her child to the public, saying, “We get to decide as parents when and how we do that. End of story.” Directing her ire at the paparazzi, she firmly asserted, “But he doesn’t have a say in any of this. We’ve been protecting him thus far and you don’t have any consent to be posting photos or selling photos of my child, a minor. Get the hell out of here with that.”
|Winning the MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at 28 years old
At the 2016 V.M.A.s, Rihanna was honored with the prestigious MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, making her the second-youngest recipient of this esteemed accolade. Her close friend at the time and “Work” collaborator, Drake, had the privilege of presenting her with the award. In his heartfelt introduction, he praised Rihanna for her authenticity, stating, “She succeeds by doing something that no one in this industry does, which is being herself.”
In her speech she gracefully acknowledge her country, her friends and the people who helped her to chart a remarkable career. “It’s such an amazing moment in my career,” she said. “All I can think of is my country. They’re gonna be so proud. This is the first Vanguard to land anywhere close to my country.” She added that she shares her success with her friends, family, and women everywhere. “I can’t believe I’m receiving the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at 28 years old. It’s crazy.”
| Rihanna named Harvard University’s Humanitarian of the Year
Rihanna was honored with the Harvard Foundation award for Humanitarian of the Year in a spirited ceremony at Harvard University in 2017. The event featured a soulful performance and a heartfelt prayer dedicated to Rihanna before she accepted the prestigious accolade. The dean of Harvard College, Rakesh Khurana, expressed his awe, while students praised Rihanna for her chart-topping hits and her inspirational impact on children and students alike.
Acknowledging her journey from humble beginnings in the Caribbean to international stardom, Rihanna recounted her childhood dreams of making a difference in the world. She shared her early aspirations to alleviate the suffering of children in need, which ultimately led her to establish charitable foundations and advocate for causes such as access to healthcare and education, as well as gender equality.
Upon accepting the award, Rihanna humorously remarked, “So, I made it to Harvard,” followed by a characteristic hair flip that delighted the audience. Expressing her gratitude and humility, she emphasized that one doesn’t need wealth or fame to make a difference in the world, urging everyone to contribute in whatever way they can.
|Rihanna Launches Fenty Beauty And Shakes Up The Beauty Industry
Fenty Beauty, Rihanna’s highly anticipated makeup line launched at Sephora, disrupted the beauty industry with its inclusive range of 40 foundation shades.
THE FAMILY. Get it at https://t.co/Gr3OPNCAO4 at Midnight tonight! @fentybeauty pic.twitter.com/Dy2Qdch7nD
— Rihanna (@rihanna) September 7, 2017
The brand filled a long-standing gap in the market by offering products catering to diverse complexions, earning widespread acclaim. Social media erupted with praise, with influencers like Quinta B and Gabby Sidibe lauding the brand’s performance and coverage. As Fenty Beauty gained momentum, mainstream brands scrambled to market their darker shades, sparking both admiration and criticism.
MARC JACOBS.
Before & After FENTY Beauty 😂 pic.twitter.com/jPOY19717p
— orithyia blue. (@javeauriel) September 12, 2017
With Rihanna’s 50% stake in the brand, Fenty Beauty is now worth $2.8 billion according to Forbes.
