By Frank Ulom
NEW YORK (CONVERSEER) – Global music icon Rihanna has marked 20 years since the release of her debut project, reflecting on her journey and expressing gratitude to fans, family, and industry professionals who supported her rise to stardom.
In a statement shared on Friday, the Barbadian-born singer and business mogul recalled leaving her home country two decades ago to pursue her musical dreams, which began with the release of her first body of work in 2005.
“20 years ago, I left my country, my culture, my food, and family to embark on a journey that started with the release of my very first body of music! So many of you were a part of my life and career since the very beginning, and some of you have joined the adventure along the way. I’m forever grateful to all of you,” Rihanna said.
The 36-year-old superstar, who has since expanded into fashion and beauty with her Fenty empire, said the last two decades have been defined by loyal fans, dedicated teams, and invaluable life lessons. She credited her family for being her strongest support system and acknowledged industry stakeholders who believed in her when she was just starting out.
“20 years of the most loyal, die-hard fans that don’t play about me whatsoever, 20 years of hard work and hardworking teams around me, 20 years of lessons, 20 years of unforgettable experiences and accomplishments, 20 years of my family being my number one support system,” she said.
Rihanna also extended appreciation to executives, DJs, writers, producers, dancers, choreographers, directors, fashion designers, photographers, glam teams, journalists, brands, and mentors who contributed to her career.
Concluding her message, she gave credit to her faith, saying, “I thank God, He’s been very generous to me and the Glory belongs to Him!”
Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, has sold over 250 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She has earned nine Grammy Awards and numerous accolades while also establishing herself as a billionaire entrepreneur through her Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty brands.
Rihanna’s 20-Year Career Timeline
2005 – Released debut single Pon de Replay and first album Music of the Sun, marking her entry into the global music scene.
2006 – Followed up with second studio album A Girl Like Me, featuring the hit Unfaithful.
2007 – Achieved global breakthrough with Good Girl Gone Bad, which produced chart-topping singles including Umbrella featuring Jay-Z.
2010 – Won her third Grammy Award with Only Girl (In the World) and solidified her status as a pop icon.
2012 – Released Unapologetic, which included the global hit Diamonds and earned her further critical acclaim.
2016 – Dropped ANTI, her eighth studio album, praised for its artistry and featuring the hit single Work with Drake.
2017 – Launched Fenty Beauty, a groundbreaking cosmetics line celebrated for inclusivity, later valued at over $2 billion.
2018 – Expanded with Savage X Fenty, her lingerie brand known for body positivity and diversity.
2019 – Named the world’s wealthiest female musician by Forbes.
2021 – Declared a billionaire, with business ventures surpassing her music earnings.
2023 – Headlined the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show, marking her highly anticipated return to the stage after several years.
2024–2025 – Continues to balance motherhood, business, and music, teasing fans with the prospect of new material.
