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Why Rihanna is so much more than a pop icon
Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty in 2017

Why Rihanna is so much more than a pop icon

Jun 24, 2025
12:41 pm

What's the story

Rihanna, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, has become a cultural icon in America, thanks to her multi-faceted career and impact. From the music scene to launching her own fashion and beauty lines, she has continuously broken barriers and set trends. Rihanna's influence goes beyond entertainment; she has become a true symbol of empowerment and innovation. Here's how.

Music journey

Musical breakthroughs and evolution

Rihanna's journey started with her debut album Music of the Sun in 2005, a record that brought her distinctive voice to the world. Over the years, she musically evolved by trying her hand at multiple genres, including pop, R&B, reggae, and hip-hop. Her adaptability and innovation in the fickle music industry have kept her relevant for close to two decades. Tracks such as Umbrella, Diamonds, and Work have secured her place in music history.

Fashion impact

Fashion influence beyond trends

Rihanna's influence spans into fashion, where she is known for crossing boundaries with daring sartorial choices. She launched Fenty Beauty in 2017 with an inclusive range of products for all skin tones. The move was revolutionary in the beauty industry as it focused on diversity and representation. Her fashion line under LVMH further cemented her status as a trendsetter who defies norms.

Giving back

Philanthropy and social advocacy

Apart from entertaining us, Rihanna is also known for her philanthropic work through the Clara Lionel Foundation, set up in 2012. The foundation funds global education programs and emergency response programs around the world. She also utilizes her platform to speak on social issues like racial equality and women's rights, which strikes a chord with countless people from diverse communities.

Entrepreneurial spirit

Business ventures redefining success

Rihanna's entrepreneurial ventures prove how artists can diversify their careers successfully beyond music/acting, etc. They range from launching the Savage X Fenty lingerie line, which spreads the message of body positivity among women across the globe. This defies the traditional beauty standards that exist today in society as a whole, therefore redefining the very meaning of success, not just financially, but culturally speaking too.