Rihanna is a superstar singer known around the world. She has made lots of music that people love to hear. In this post, we are going to talk about some of her best songs.
We have made a list of tunes that show how great she is at making hits. From her early days to her latest tracks, you will find the songs that have made her famous.
If you like Rihanna’s music, you will enjoy seeing which songs we think are the best. Keep reading to see if your favorite made the list.
25. Loyalty (With Kendrick Lamar)
“Loyalty” marks the powerful collaboration between Rihanna and Kendrick Lamar, joining forces for a track that resonates with themes of honesty and commitment. Featured on Lamar’s critically acclaimed album “DAMN.,” the song intertwines Rihanna’s distinct vocals with Kendrick’s sharp verses. Winning the Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Performance, “Loyalty” is celebrated for its lyrical depth and the chemistry between the two artists, creating a compelling conversation on the weight of trust in relationships.
24. Take Care (With Drake)
“Take Care” marks a dynamic collaboration between Rihanna and Drake, weaving a story of love and vulnerability. Released in 2011 as the title track from Drake’s sophomore album, the song samples Jamie xx’s remix of Gil Scott-Heron’s “I’ll Take Care of You.” It’s a smooth blend of Drake’s rap verses and Rihanna’s soulful chorus, melding R&B with subtle electronic influences. The track garnered critical acclaim and further solidified Rihanna’s versatility as an artist, going multi-platinum and winning a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration.
23. Wild Thoughts (With DJ Khaled, Bryson Tiller)
“Wild Thoughts,” featuring the vibrant collaboration of Rihanna with DJ Khaled and Bryson Tiller, samples the iconic guitar riff from Santana’s “Maria Maria.” The track blends sultry lyrics with a rhythmic beat that becomes instantly infectious. It dominated the charts upon release and highlighted Rihanna’s versatility as an artist, seamlessly moving from dancehall-inspired beats to a groove-infused R&B melody. Its steamy music video further solidified the song’s summer hit status, earning critical acclaim and audience adoration.
22. Hate That I Love You (ft. Ne-Yo)
“Hate That I Love You,” featuring Ne-Yo, highlights the complexity of love with its smooth R&B rhythms. The song, a collaboration between Rihanna and the renowned singer-songwriter, resonates with listeners through its honest lyrics about the struggle of being in a love-hate relationship. Its popularity soared, securing a spot in the top 10 on charts worldwide, and displaying the perfect blend of Rihanna’s edgy vocals with Ne-Yo’s polished delivery. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable message and melodious harmony.
21. Where Have You Been
Rihanna’s dance floor hit “Where Have You Been,” from her sixth studio album ‘Talk That Talk,’ turns the heat up with its pulsating beats and infectious chorus. The track, produced by Calvin Harris, highlights Rihanna’s quest for a soulmate amidst electronic dance rhythms. Its eye-popping music video, notable for its intricate choreography, earned a VMA nomination. The song, blending EDM and pop, confirms Rihanna’s versatility and appeal across music genres.
20. Pour It Up
Pump up your speakers because ‘Pour It Up’ will make you feel like you’re living the high life. Rihanna’s bold attitude and unapologetic spirit echo through this brash track, an ode to opulence and all-night revelry. When it hit the airwaves in 2012, ‘Pour It Up’ quickly became a favorite in clubs worldwide, solidifying Rihanna’s status as a queen of contemporary R&B. Its hypnotic beat and edgy lyrics invite listeners to forget their troubles and party like rockstars.
19. Kiss It Better
“Kiss It Better” is a sultry track from Rihanna’s eighth studio album, ‘Anti.’ Released in 2016, this song blends smooth R&B with electric guitar riffs, creating a passionate and raw emotion that pulls at the heartstrings. Rihanna’s powerful vocals dominate the track as she sings about the complexities of a tumultuous relationship and the longing for reconciliation. Its seductive melody and memorable chorus have made “Kiss It Better” a fan favorite and a staple in Rihanna’s discography.
18. Disturbia
“Disturbia” is not just a chart-climbing hit; it’s a dark reflection of a troubled mind, wrapped in an irresistible, upbeat tempo. This song, representing a departure from Rihanna’s earlier work, explores the theme of mental anguish with a contagious rhythm and unforgettable lyrics. The track became an instant favorite, marking her presence in the dance-pop genre. It’s celebrated for its compelling blend of pop and gothic elements, offering a gripping auditory experience that resonates with fans worldwide. Disturbia’s gripping sound and storytelling keep listeners coming back.
17. S&M
Rihanna’s “S&M” is a bold statement in her discography, touching on themes of love and power. Released in 2011 from her album ‘Loud,’ the track quickly climbed the charts, becoming a defining hit. Its provocative lyrics and pulsating beat spurred controversy and conversation, highlighting Rihanna’s fearless approach to music and image. The song also featured a remix with pop icon Britney Spears, amplifying its impact and solidifying its place in pop culture as a daring and memorable tune.
16. What’s My Name? (ft. Drake)
“What’s My Name?” marks a steamy collaboration between Rihanna and rapper Drake. Featured on her 2010 album ‘Loud,’ the track oozes with chemistry and playful charisma. Highlighting Rihanna’s versatility as an artist, the song intertwines reggae vibes with R&B, setting it apart as a memorable hit. Its sultry beat and infectious chorus not only topped the charts but also solidified Rihanna’s status as a pop and R&B sensation. The pairing with Drake’s smooth flow adds a dynamic layer, making it an undeniable fan favorite.
15. Needed Me
Rihanna asserts her independence and power in “Needed Me,” a track from her multi-platinum album “ANTI.” The song is a raw, no-holds-barred dismissal of a past lover’s misconceptions. With an icy synth backdrop and steady beats, Rihanna’s voice slices through as she delivers pointed lyrics that highlight strength and self-sufficiency. “Needed Me” became a radio hit, demonstrating her ability to merge R&B with a chill, almost ethereal trap sound, adding another dimension to her versatile discography.
14. Don’t Stop the Music
“Don’t Stop the Music” pulses with infectious beats that instantly command attention on the dance floor. Released in 2007, this track from Rihanna’s third studio album, “Good Girl Gone Bad,” became a global hit, urging listeners to keep the party going. The song samples Michael Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” intertwining past pop grooves with Rihanna’s contemporary R&B flair. It’s a dynamic celebration of rhythm and movement, marking a definitive moment in Rihanna’s discography as she solidified her status as a pop icon.
13. SOS
Rihanna’s “SOS” is a high-energy dance track that marked her first number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Noted for sampling Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love,” the song mixes vibrant beats with Rihanna’s distinctive vocal flair. The infectious tune, from her second album “A Girl Like Me,” resonated worldwide, solidifying her status as an international pop sensation. “SOS” is a definitive hit that encapsulates Rihanna’s capacity to blend pop and dance music seamlessly.
12. Love the Way You Lie (With Eminem)
“Love the Way You Lie,” a gripping collaboration between Rihanna and Eminem, confronts the complexities of an abusive relationship. Rihanna’s powerful vocal performance merges perfectly with Eminem’s raw verses, reflecting a turbulent narrative that resonates with many. The song soared to the top of charts globally, striking a chord with its honest portrayal of love and pain. Its accompanying music video further amplifies the impactful message, painting a vivid picture of the cycle of violence and the struggle to break free.
11. Man Down
“Man Down,” a reggae-infused track from Rihanna’s fifth album “Loud,” narrates a tale of regret and desperation after a woman takes the life of a man. Its controversial lyrics and storytelling sparked conversations about violence and its repercussions. The song became notable for its bold subject matter and Rihanna’s Barbadian roots influence, resonating powerfully with fans. Exceptional for its narrative style, “Man Down” invites listeners to consider the complexities of revenge and justice through a pop music lens.
10. Rude Boy
“Rude Boy” hits with a fierce rhythm and a challenge to machismo, defying the norms of a traditional love song. Rihanna commands attention, asking for boldness and confidence from her suitor. With its irresistible dancehall vibe and relentless beat, the track quickly climbed to the top of the charts. Its success is not only pinned on its infectious melody but also its empowering message, encouraging listeners to be unapologetically assertive.
9. Take a Bow
“Take a Bow” marks a poignant moment in Rihanna’s music career, serving as the eloquent breakup ballad that resonated with fans worldwide. Released in 2008 as part of the reissue of her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad, the song highlights her vocal prowess and emotional depth. The lyrics address a cheating partner, delivered with poised restraint and a maturity that belies Rihanna’s young age at the time. It quickly climbed the charts, solidifying her status as a pop music heavyweight.
8. This Is What You Came For (With Calvin Harris)
Teaming up with Calvin Harris, Rihanna delivered a summer hit that dominated airwaves with ‘This Is What You Came For.’ The track, featuring Rihanna’s signature sultry vocals layered over Harris’s pulsating beats, quickly climbed the charts. With its infectious melody and club-ready rhythms, the song became a staple for party playlists worldwide. A masterclass in collaboration, it highlights Rihanna’s ability to meld with diverse musical styles, making it a persistent favorite among fans and DJs alike.
7. Work (ft. Drake)
“Work” featuring Drake quickly became a global hit, marking Rihanna’s unique blend of dancehall-infused pop and R&B. The 2016 release from her album ‘Anti’ highlights the Barbadian singer’s ability to merge Caribbean rhythms with mainstream appeal. Its repetitive hook, delivered in a playful island cadence, echoes the complexities of romantic relationships. The song’s success was further amplified by its steamy music video, where the chemistry between Rihanna and Drake is palpable, driving “Work” to top charts worldwide.
6. Stay (ft. Mikky Ekko)
“Stay (ft. Mikky Ekko)” presents a tender side of Rihanna, highlighted by its raw emotional depth. The song, featuring Mikky Ekko, was released in 2013 and quickly rose to prominence, resonating with fans for its poignant lyrics and haunting melody. The stripped-down piano accompaniment allows Rihanna’s vocals to shine, conveying vulnerability and longing. This ballad has become a beloved hit, demonstrating Rihanna’s versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
5. Only Girl (In the World)
“Only Girl (In the World)” beckons listeners to feel the exhilaration of being someone’s one and only. Rihanna’s powerful vocals dominate the track, demanding affection with an irresistible urgency. This song, produced by the famed StarGate team, dominated the charts and snagged a Grammy for Best Dance Recording. Its pulsating beats and electrifying melody make it a dance floor essential, reflecting Rihanna’s versatility and ability to command global attention.
4. Love on the Brain
“Love on the Brain” is a powerful ballad that finds Rihanna channeling soulful vibes reminiscent of doo-wop classics. The track, featured on her eighth album “Anti,” highlights Rihanna’s vocal range as she sings about the complexities of a tumultuous relationship. Critics lauded her performance, emphasizing the raw emotion and vulnerability that permeate through the gritty production. With a mix of guitar riffs and orchestral backing, the song resonates with anyone who has experienced love’s harder edges.
3. Diamonds
“Diamonds” shines bright in Rihanna’s discography as an emblem of her vocal range and artistry. The song, released in 2012, quickly soared to the top of charts worldwide, symbolizing resilience and the beauty of finding light in darkness. Its compelling lyrics and stirring production exemplify Rihanna’s ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. This track not only dominated the airwaves but also solidified her status as a pop icon.
2. We Found Love (ft. Calvin Harris)
Welcome the electrifying beats of “We Found Love,” where Rihanna teams up with Calvin Harris to deliver a pulsating track about finding hope and joy amidst chaos. The song, crowned with a Grammy, marks a high point in dance-pop crossovers, resonating across dance floors worldwide. Its compelling lyrics and Harris’s signature production style create a memorable and influential hit. The accompanying music video portrays a tumultuous relationship and the adrenaline of raw, youthful love.
1. Umbrella (ft. Jay-Z)
“Umbrella” marks a defining moment in Rihanna’s career, an iconic collaboration with rap mogul Jay-Z. Released in 2007, this chart-topping hit solidified her status as a pop powerhouse. The song, with its memorable chorus and protective lyrics, speaks of unwavering support through life’s storms. It earned Rihanna her first Grammy and became an emblem of friendship and resilience. The striking beat and Rihanna’s captivating vocals make “Umbrella” an unforgettable track in music history.
We hope you enjoyed going through our list of Rihanna songs. Each song we shared has its special sound and story. Rihanna’s music connects with a lot of people, and it’s easy to see why. She has songs that can make you want to dance and songs that might touch your heart. From upbeat hits to deep ballads, her range is impressive. If you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, we trust you found something you liked. Maybe you even discovered a new tune to add to your playlist! Keep listening to Rihanna’s songs any time you need a boost or just some good music to fill your day.
