Rihanna marks 20 years in music, attributes success to God’s generosity

By Tosin Brown –

Barbadian-born global superstar, Robyn Rihanna Fenty, has celebrated two decades of a remarkable career in the music industry, expressing gratitude to God, her fans, family, and collaborators.

The 36-year-old singer, who entered the global stage at 16 after being discovered and signed by rapper and music mogul Jay-Z, marked the milestone on Saturday with an emotional post on X. She reflected on her journey since the release of her debut single, Pon de Replay, in 2005.

“Twenty 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,” Rihanna wrote.

“So many of you have been a part of my life and career since the very beginning, while others have joined along the way. I’m forever grateful to all of you. I thank God, He’s been very generous to me, and the glory belongs to Him,” she added.

With more than 250 million records sold worldwide, Rihanna is recognized as one of the best-selling artists of all time. She credited her fan base, family, and industry professionals—including executives, DJs, producers, writers, choreographers, and designers—for their roles in her journey.

Beyond music, Rihanna has become a cultural icon and entrepreneur, earning nine Grammy Awards, multiple Billboard chart records, and building a billion-dollar empire through her Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty brands.