Rihanna is back in the spotlight, and this time, she’s bringing more than just a new product line. At the launch party for Fenty Hair, the pop icon finally broke her silence about the much-anticipated ninth studio album, humorously dubbed "R9" by fans.
In her characteristic playful manner, RiRi couldn’t help but jest about the seemingly endless wait for the album. “This [Fenty Hair line] is probably the longest I’ve ever taken to create something,” she quipped, pausing before adding, “No, I lied, that’s ‘R9’.”
But behind the laughter, there’s a serious commitment to her craft. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight, Rihanna opened up about why it’s taken eight years to follow up on her 2016 album "Anti". “Music, for me, is a new discovery,” she explained. “I’m rediscovering things. I have been working on the album for so long that I put all that stuff aside, and now I’m prepared to go back in the studio.”
Rihanna revealed she’s starting fresh with the album, aiming to merge her past efforts with a new perspective. “So, I’m now prepared. I’m gonna start. So, you know, give me a second. Yes, I’m starting over, but I don’t wanna neglect the songs that I have. I wanna listen to stuff with new ears, with my new perspective, and then see what still applies and what I’m still in love with.”
Just last week, the internet was abuzz with speculation after Rihanna was spotted in a dress that read: “I’m retired. This is as dressed up as I can get.” Naturally, fans panicked, thinking she was sending a cryptic farewell to her music career.
However, with the recent announcement of her fifth business venture, Fenty Hair, it’s clear that Rihanna is anything but retired. The haircare line promises to “strengthen and repair all types of hair,” adding another feather to her ever-expanding business empire.
Rumors of a musical comeback intensified in December when reports suggested that Rihanna signed a new deal with Live Nation, hinting at a world tour slated for this year or 2025. Although official announcements are still pending, the anticipation is palpable.
In recent interviews, Rihanna has shared glimpses of what’s to come. In April, she told Extra that the new album represents “the evolution” of her music, and she’s bursting with visual ideas to match the sonic journey. Last month, she added, “I already have stuff I feel like I could make hits out of.” Collaborating with A$AP Rocky, the couple is figuring out who gets what, given the sheer quality of their material.
Rihanna’s last musical offering was "Lift Me Up," the lead single from the "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" soundtrack, performed live at the Oscars. Her headlining act at the 2023 Super Bowl Halftime Show marked her first performance in seven years, followed by a full concert at a billionaire’s private wedding in India.
While we wait for "R9", Rihanna’s fans can revel in her ever-growing legacy. With new music on the horizon and a fresh start in the studio, it’s only a matter of time before she graces us with the next chapter of her musical journey. And until then, we’ll just have to hold onto her words: “Give me a second. I’m rebuilding.”
Photo: Getty Images
