Rihanna
Rihanna is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman whose global pop hits include “Umbrella” and “We Found Love.”
Umbrella (song): A 2007 song by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, known for its refrain and prominent use of the word “ella.” The international hit that established Rihanna as a defining pop star of the late 2000s.
Jay-Z: An American rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur whose recordings include “Empire State of Mind.” His opening verse helped frame “Umbrella” as a collaboration between two major artists.
Barbados: An island country in the eastern Caribbean, where Rihanna was born and raised. Her Barbadian background has remained central to her public identity and cultural references.
Caribbean music: Music shaped by the diverse traditions and popular genres of the Caribbean and its diaspora. Her worldwide success brought Caribbean sounds and artists into mainstream pop conversations.
Beyoncé: An American singer, songwriter, and performer known for solo albums and her work with Destiny’s Child. Her highly controlled album-centered career offers a useful contrast with Rihanna’s singles and business ventures.
We Found Love: A 2011 Rihanna song featuring Calvin Harris, built around electronic dance production. Its global success marked a major turn toward dance music in Rihanna’s catalog.
Calvin Harris: A Scottish DJ, producer, and songwriter known for electronic dance-pop hits. His production and songwriting shaped the club-oriented sound of “We Found Love.”
Def Jam Recordings: An American record label founded in 1984, associated with hip-hop and popular music. Rihanna signed with Def Jam after auditioning for its then-president Jay-Z.
Inclusive sizing: The practice of offering clothing or products across a broad range of body sizes. Savage X Fenty promoted a wider range of bodies in lingerie campaigns and runway shows.
Lady Gaga: An American singer, songwriter, and actor known for theatrical pop and visual reinvention. Gaga’s performance-driven persona contrasts with Rihanna’s comparatively understated public image.