In a candid interview with Harper’s BAZAAR, Rihanna has expressed her deep connection with the album 'Anti', which celebrated its ninth anniversary last month. This record, featuring hits like 'Kiss It Better' and 'Work', topped the Billboard charts for two weeks and remained on the charts for an impressive 456 weeks. Since then, Rihanna has not released another full-length album but did share a single in 2022 titled 'Lift Me Up', a tribute to the late actor Chadwick Boseman. The singer revealed that 'Anti' holds a special place in her heart as it is the only album she can listen to without feeling self-conscious. She explained that when she listens to 'Anti', it feels as though someone else is performing the songs, allowing her to enjoy them fully.
Since its release, 'Anti' has been a significant milestone in Rihanna's career. In 2014, the artist spoke about the diverse sounds of her singles at the time, emphasizing her desire to take listeners on different musical journeys through each track. The album's unique blend of styles resonated with fans and critics alike, contributing to its enduring success. Rihanna's ability to craft such a versatile project reflects her artistic growth and willingness to experiment. During the interview, she also hinted at a new album, stating that it will be unlike anything fans have heard before. She mentioned that previous reports suggesting a reggae influence were inaccurate, and she wanted to ensure the new music aligned with her personal evolution.
Rihanna's journey since 'Anti' has been marked by both anticipation and speculation. Over the past year, she has shared glimpses of her creative process, including starting over with a fresh perspective. Fans have speculated about her potential return to live performances, especially after rumors linked her to headline shows at London Stadium and possibly Glastonbury 2025. While these remain unconfirmed, her appearance at the 2023 Super Bowl Halftime Show and a private wedding performance in India have fueled excitement. Additionally, her partner A$AP Rocky's recent acquittal in a legal case has brought positive news to her personal life. Rihanna expressed gratitude for this outcome, attributing it to divine mercy.
The interview underscores Rihanna's evolving relationship with her music. From the success of 'Anti' to the anticipation surrounding her next move, it is clear that the artist continues to challenge herself creatively. Her reluctance to release music that doesn't align with her current phase highlights her commitment to authenticity. As fans eagerly await her next project, they can rest assured that whatever comes next will be a true reflection of Rihanna's artistic vision and growth.