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 is a Barbadian singer, businesswoman, and actress, recognized as the best-selling female recording artist of the 21st century and the highest-certified female digital single artist by RIAA. As of 2024, she holds the position of the third wealthiest musician globally. Rihanna boasts seven U.S. diamond certified singles and 14 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100. With an estimated 250 million units sold worldwide, she is one of the best-selling recording artists of all time and has received numerous accolades for her work.
2004: Inspiration from Brandy's Afrodisiac
Rihanna cited Brandy's fourth studio album, Afrodisiac (2004), as her main inspiration for her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007).
2006: Believe Foundation Creation
In 2006, Rihanna created her Believe Foundation to provide assistance to terminally ill children.
February 22, 2008: Inauguration of "Rihanna Day" in Barbados
On February 22, 2008, former Barbados Prime Minister David Thompson launched the national "Rihanna Day" in their country, celebrating Rihanna's impact and achievements.
2012: Forbes' Social Networking Superstars
In 2012, Rihanna ranked No. 1 on Forbes' list of Social Networking Superstars, highlighting her dominating presence on social media.
May 2013: Eve Ensler Praises Rihanna's Agency Over Sexuality
In May 2013, Eve Ensler, writer of The Vagina Monologues, praised Rihanna, recognizing her agency over her sexuality, openness, grace, and talent.
2013: Rihanna receives the "Icon Award" at the American Music Awards
In 2013, Rihanna received the "Icon Award" at the American Music Awards, recognizing her significant impact and influence in the music industry.
2013: Most Influential Pop Star in the United Kingdom
In 2013, Rihanna was named the most influential pop star in the United Kingdom by UK channel 4Music, highlighting her significant impact on the music scene.
2014: Time Magazine's 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: Olivier Rousteing compares Rihanna to Fashion Icons
During Vogue Festival 2015, Balmain designer Olivier Rousteing praised Rihanna, comparing her stylistically to fashion icons like Madonna, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, and Prince.
2016: Rihanna receives the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards
In 2016, Rihanna was honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards, celebrating her profound contributions to music videos and popular culture.
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: Rihanna sells over 250 million records worldwide
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.
September 20, 2018: Appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary by Barbados
On September 20, 2018, Rihanna was appointed by the government of Barbados to be an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, promoting "education, tourism and investment for the island."
2018: Time 100 Most Influential People
In 2018, Time magazine included Rihanna on its 100 Most Influential People in the World list.
2019: Forbes' Top 100 Most Powerful Women
In 2019, Rihanna was listed among Forbes' Top 100 Most Powerful Women, recognizing her influence beyond the music industry.
2020: Debut on the Sunday Times Rich List
In 2020, Rihanna debuted on the Sunday Times Rich List, securing third place among Britain's richest musicians.
2021: Richest Female Musician
As of 2021, Rihanna is recognized as the world's wealthiest female musician with an estimated net worth of $1.7 billion, solidifying her status as a financial powerhouse.
2021: Declared National Hero of Barbados
In 2021, Rihanna was declared a National Hero of Barbados, recognizing her contributions and achievements.
2022: Clara Lionel Foundation Donates to Climate Justice
In 2022, the Clara Lionel Foundation donated 13 million euro to climate justice and climate resilience initiatives.
2023: Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Singers
In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked Rihanna at number 68 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
2024: Third Wealthiest Musician
As of 2024, Rihanna is recognized as the third wealthiest musician globally, highlighting her significant financial success.
