Rihanna's influence: How she became the 21st century's most influential musician
Rihanna’s influence as a musician and cultural icon is undeniable. Her music has transcended genres and language barriers, and she has become an inspiration to many by speaking out about racial injustice.
She explores hip hop, R&B, EDM, reggae, and more in her music, and she embraces her body, sexuality, and womanhood. Rihanna is not just a chart-topper, she is a music icon who has set the stage for Black female artists to be unapologetically carefree with their music.
She has also made an impact on fashion and beauty. Despite the systemic obstacles she has faced as an Afro-Caribbean woman in the U.S. with a history of boldly progressive activism, Rihanna has achieved what she has and is worthy of celebration.
From fashion to music to entrepreneurship (Fenty Beauty), she has and will continue to impact the lives of young Black women.
In addition Rihanna has won numerous awards throughout her career in music, film, and fashion. She has won 9 Grammy Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, 13 American Music Awards (including the Icon Award), and 7 MTV Video Music Awards (including the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award).
Rihanna has won 5 American Music Awards, 22 Billboard Music Awards, 9 BET Awards, 2 BRIT Awards, and 12 MTV Video Music Awards.
She has also won a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for her song “Umbrella” with Jay-Z in 2008 and Best Rap/Sung Performance for “LOYALTY.” with Kendrick Lamar in 2018.
