Rihanna has once again shown just how immense her influence is, securing the second spot on Billboard’s Top 100 Women Artists of the 21st Century.
But this isn’t just about rankings—it’s about her incredible journey from a teenager in Barbados to a global icon across music, fashion, and business.
The Start of a Superstar Journey
Born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna’s rise to fame started at the age of 16 when she was discovered by producer Evan Rogers.
Her musical journey began with a deal with Def Jam Recordings, which led to her debut album Music of the Sun in 2005.
This album introduced her to the world with songs like “Pon de Replay,” which highlighted her Caribbean roots and set the stage for her future as a pop sensation.
But it was her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007), that truly changed the game.
This album, featuring the iconic hit “Umbrella,” propelled Rihanna into international stardom and earned her her first Grammy Award.
She took risks with this album, and those risks paid off, making her one of the most influential stars of the 21st century.
Rihanna’s Monumental Career
Rihanna’s career is a testament to her versatility and incredible work ethic.
She has achieved an astounding 14 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles—more than any other female artist in history.
Tracks like “We Found Love,” “Diamonds,” and “Work” became global anthems and cemented her position as one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Her musical style is constantly evolving, from reggae to dance-pop, ensuring her music stays fresh and relevant across generations.
She also holds seven U.S. Diamond-certified singles, further solidifying her place as one of the greatest musicians of our time.
Fenty Beauty and Business Brilliance
But Rihanna is not just a chart-topping musician; she’s also a savvy business mogul.
In 2017, she launched Fenty Beauty, which disrupted the cosmetics industry by offering inclusive products that catered to all skin tones.
The brand was an instant success, reportedly earning over R 1 billion in its first year alone.
Rihanna’s influence in fashion is equally impressive.
She made history as the first Black woman to lead a luxury brand under the LVMH umbrella with Fenty, pushing boundaries and making waves in an industry that often lacked inclusivity.
Her business acumen has proven that she is just as much a force in the boardroom as she is on stage.
Pushing Boundaries with Inclusivity
Rihanna’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the beauty world.
Her lingerie brand, Savage x Fenty, continues to challenge the norms of the fashion industry with its focus on diversity and body positivity.
She’s proven time and time again that representation matters, and this brand embodies her mission to make everyone feel seen and celebrated.
Alongside her business ventures, Rihanna has dedicated herself to philanthropy.
Through the Clara Lionel Foundation, she has funded global education and disaster relief efforts, including support for hurricane victims in the Caribbean.
She’s also an outspoken advocate for social justice, using her platform to support movements like Black Lives Matter and to fight for equality.
A Historic Super Bowl Performance
Rihanna made history again in 2023 with her Super Bowl halftime performance, where she performed while pregnant—an empowering moment watched by over 121 million people.
This performance was a reminder of her enduring impact on both music and culture, proving that she is a true icon in every sense of the word.
Her return to music with “Lift Me Up” for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever earned her nominations for both Golden Globe and Academy Awards, showcasing her enduring talent and cultural influence.
Billboard’s Recognition of Rihanna
Billboard’s decision to rank Rihanna second on its Top 100 Women Artists of the 21st Century list is a fitting acknowledgment of her incredible achievements.
Her ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her roots has made her a beloved icon across the globe.
From chart-topping hits to groundbreaking business ventures, Rihanna continues to inspire fans and artists alike with her unwavering resilience and excellence.