20 Years of Hits and History: Rihanna Celebrates Music Milestone

Global superstar Rihanna is celebrating a major milestone—20 years in the music industry. The Barbadian singer, entrepreneur, and cultural icon took to social media to reflect on her two-decade journey, expressing deep gratitude to her fans, family, and the countless people who helped shape her career.

The “Umbrella” hitmaker, who rose from a teenage talent in Barbados to a global phenomenon, said she wanted to pause and show appreciation to those who have supported her unconditionally.

Rihanna also paid tribute to her family, calling them her “number one support system,” while extending her gratitude to industry figures who believed in her early on—executives, DJs, writers, producers, dancers, choreographers, directors, fashion designers, photographers, glam teams, journalists, brands, and mentors.

Since her debut in 2005 with Music of the Sun, Rihanna has grown into one of the world’s most influential entertainers. Beyond her chart-topping hits, she has built a billion-dollar business empire with Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty, while becoming a fashion icon and philanthropist.

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As she celebrates two decades in music, fans around the globe are echoing her gratitude—thanking Rihanna for the soundtrack, style, and inspiration she has provided over the years.

Below is her full statement on X:

“20 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! So many of you were a part of my life and career since the very beginning, and some of you have joined the adventure along the way. I’m forever grateful to all of you. Each of you played a very crucial role in where this journey has taken me thus far!”

“I just wanted to take this moment to say thank you! Thank you for the greatest first 20 years ever! 20 years of the most loyal, die-hard fans that don’t play about me whatsoever, 20 years of hard work and hardworking teams around me, 20 years of lessons, 20 years of unforgettable experiences and accomplishments, 20 years of my family being my number one support system, and to all the people who said yes to me and gave me a chance before it was “cool” to (Execs, DJ’s, writers, producers, dancers, choreographers, directors, fashion designers, photographers, glam, journalists, brands, mentors, etc etc) 20 years worth of thanks to you!! I thank God, He’s been very generous to me and the Glory belongs to Him! #R20.”