Global superstar Rihanna marked two decades in the music industry on Friday, sharing a heartfelt message of gratitude to her fans, collaborators, and family. The milestone sparked renewed excitement about the possibility of new music from the Grammy-winning artist.

In a post on X, Rihanna reflected on the journey that began with her 2005 debut single Pon de Replay and her first body of work. “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,” she wrote.

She expressed her appreciation for her fans, describing them as “the most loyal, die-hard fans that don’t play about me whatsoever,” and also thanked the teams, mentors, and industry figures who believed in her early on. “I just wanted to take this moment to say thank you! Thank you for the greatest first 20 years ever!” she added, closing her message with the hashtag #R20 and a prayer emoji.

The post quickly generated a wave of celebration across social media, with fans praising her career highlights—from her nine Grammy wins to her billion-dollar Fenty empire. It also reignited speculation about new music, as her last studio album, Anti, was released in 2016.

Fans took to X with comments reflecting the widespread anticipation for a new album. While Rihanna has not officially announced any new project, her anniversary tribute reinforced her gratitude to those who have supported her journey from Barbados to global superstardom.

For her followers, the hope is that her next message of thanks might come with the announcement of music fans have waited nearly a decade to hear.

Faridah Abdulkadiri 

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