After taking a well-deserved three-year break from releasing music, global superstar Rihanna is finally back with fresh tunes.
The singer known for countless chart-toppers is dropping a brand-new single called Friend of Mine.
Fans are already buzzing about it, especially since the song features in the trailer for the upcoming Smurfs movie.
Rihanna Voices Smurfette in the New Smurfs Film
Not only is Rihanna lending her voice to the character Smurfette in this animated adventure, but she’s also bringing a special kind of magic to the role.
The trailer gives us a peek behind the scenes, showing Rihanna smiling in the studio as she records the song — a joyful moment that reminds everyone she’s still loving her craft.
First Single Since 2022’s Lift Me Up
This new release is Rihanna’s first single since Lift Me Up in 2022, a track that got an Oscar nod thanks to its part in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Fans have been eager for more new music ever since, especially since her last full album Anti came out way back in 2016.
What’s the Smurfs Movie About?
The movie’s plot centers on Smurfette leading her friends on an exciting mission into the real world to save Papa Smurf, voiced by John Goodman, who’s been kidnapped by some evil wizards.
The cast is packed with big names like James Corden, Nick Offerman, Dan Levy, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, and Octavia Spencer — making it a star-studded animated hit.
Rihanna’s Life Beyond Music
Rihanna has been keeping busy outside of music too — she’s expecting her third child with rapper partner A$AP Rocky.
Despite her growing family and packed schedule, she’s clearly still passionate about her music career.
New Album on the Horizon
Earlier this year in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Rihanna opened up about her upcoming ninth studio album.
She said she’s finally figured out the direction she wants to take and is feeling really confident about it.
Though she didn’t drop a release date, her words have given fans plenty to be hopeful about.
Friend of Mine Is Just the Beginning
While fans wait for the full album, Friend of Mine gives us a tasty preview of what’s coming.
The Smurfs movie hits theaters on July 18, so audiences will get to enjoy the film and Rihanna’s new music all in one go.
With her return to the music scene just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to get excited for what promises to be a thrilling new chapter in Rihanna’s career