Lasting Legacy of Rihanna: A Look at the Influence on History

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Rihanna—a timeline of influence.

Robyn Rihanna Fenty, known as Rihanna, is a highly successful Barbadian singer, songwriter, businesswoman, actress, and model. Recognized as the best-selling female recording artist of the 21st century by Guinness World Records and the highest-certified female digital single artist by the RIAA, she is also the third wealthiest musician globally as of 2024. Boasting seven U.S. diamond certified singles and 14 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles, Rihanna has sold an estimated 250 million units worldwide, making her one of the best-selling recording artists of all time.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

February 22, 2008: "Rihanna Day" Launched in Barbados

On February 22, 2008, former Barbados Prime Minister David Thompson launched the national "Rihanna Day" in their country. Although it is not a bank holiday, Barbadians celebrate it every year in honor of Rihanna.

2012: Social Networking Superstar

In 2012, Rihanna was ranked at No. 1 on Forbes' list of Social Networking Superstars. Time magazine included Rihanna on its 100 Most Influential People in the World issue.

May 2013: Eve Ensler Praises Rihanna

In May 2013, The Vagina Monologues writer and feminist Eve Ensler praised Rihanna, stating, "I'm a huge Rihanna fan, I think she has a kind of agency over her sexuality and she's open about her sexuality, she has enormous grace and she's immensely talented."

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2013: Most Influential Pop Star in the UK

In 2013, Rihanna was named the most influential pop star in the United Kingdom by UK channel 4Music.

2014: Time Magazine Pop Star Ranking

In 2014, Time magazine's pop stardom ranking metric ranked Rihanna second in history, based on all-time chart performance and contemporary significance.

2015: Style Comparison to Fashion Icons

During the Vogue Festival in 2015, Balmain designer Olivier Rousteing praised Rihanna by stylistically comparing her to fashion icons like Madonna, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, and Prince.

August 28, 2016: Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award

On August 28, 2016, Rihanna was honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards.

August 2018: Billboard Ranking

In August 2018, Billboard ranked Rihanna as the tenth biggest Hot 100 artist of all time, as well as the fifth biggest female act of all time.

September 2018: Record Sales Milestone

As of September 2018, Rihanna had sold over 250 million records worldwide, solidifying her status as one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

2018: Time 100 Most Influential People

In 2018, Time magazine included Rihanna on its 100 Most Influential People in the World issue. Rihanna was also ranked one of the best dressed women by Net-a-Porter.

2019: Forbes' Top 100 Most Powerful Women

In 2019, Rihanna was listed among Forbes' Top 100 Most Powerful Women.

2020: NAACP President's Award

At the 2020 NAACP Image Awards, hosted by BET, Rihanna accepted the President's Award from Derrick Johnson, who praised her career, business achievements, activism, and philanthropy.