Rihanna Makes History with 200 Million RIAA Singles Certifications

Rihanna has made history as the first woman to surpass 200 million RIAA singles certifications, achieving a total of 200.5 million certified units. This milestone places her third on the all-time list for digital singles, behind Drake, who leads with 277.5 million, and Morgan Wallen, with 215 million. Notably, Rihanna has not released a full-length album since her 2016 project, *ANTI*, yet her music continues to resonate with audiences, demonstrating the lasting impact of her catalog.

E! NewsRihanna becomes first woman to surpass 200 million singles certificationsRihanna makes music history again despite not releasing an album in years

Rihanna, 38, has maintained her status as a significant figure in the music industry despite a decade-long hiatus from album releases. Her last major contributions include "Lift Me Up," a tribute featured in the 2022 film *Black Panther: Wakanda Forever*, and "Friends of Mine," which appeared in the 2025 *Smurfs* movie. The enduring popularity of her earlier hits, such as "Umbrella" and "We Found Love," has contributed to her impressive certification numbers, highlighting the strength of her musical legacy.

Rihanna becomes first woman to surpass 200 million singles certifications

Rihanna has expressed her commitment to ensuring that her next musical project reflects her personal growth and evolution. In a 2025 interview with *Harper’s Bazaar*, she stated, “After a while, I looked at it, and I was like, this much time away from music needs to count for the next thing everyone hears. It has to count. It has to matter.” She emphasized that her upcoming work will not conform to commercial expectations, indicating a desire for a more introspective and authentic artistic expression.

Rihanna makes music history again despite not releasing an album in years

Despite her achievements, some fans have voiced frustration over Rihanna's prolonged absence from the music scene. The anticipation for new music has been palpable among her supporters, known as the "Navy," who eagerly await her return. Critics argue that while her entrepreneurial ventures are commendable, her music career should not be sidelined.

Bossip

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Rihanna has also made significant strides as an entrepreneur. In 2025, she became the first Black woman to establish two billion-dollar companies, Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty, which collectively achieved a valuation exceeding $3 billion. Her brands have been recognized for their inclusivity and innovation, reshaping industry standards and setting new benchmarks for representation.

Rihanna makes music history again despite not releasing an album in years

• “There’s no genre now. That’s why I waited. Every time, I was just like, ‘No, it’s not me. It’s not right. It’s not matching my growth. It’s not matching my evolution. I can’t do this. I can’t stand by this. I can’t perform this for a year on tour.'” — Rihanna

Rihanna makes music history again despite not releasing an album in years

• “After a while, I looked at it, and I was like, this much time away from music needs to count for the next thing everyone hears. It has to count. It has to matter. I have to show them the worth in the wait. I cannot put up anything mediocre.” — Rihanna

Rihanna makes music history again despite not releasing an album in years

Rihanna's historic achievement of surpassing 200 million RIAA singles certifications underscores her enduring influence in the music industry, while her entrepreneurial success further solidifies her status as a multifaceted cultural icon. As she prepares for her next musical chapter, the world remains eager to see how she will continue to shape both music and business.

Bossip