Rihanna's Takeover: From hits, a fashion moment, Fenty Beauty to Pregnancy, the Super Bowl Performance We Can't Stop Talking About
Rihanna announced her pregnancy with baby number two during the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show ( Variety via Getty Images)
This past Sunday, Rihanna wowed the world with her long-awaited Superbowl performance, which was nothing short of iconic. While many were already in awe of her musical talent and stunning fashion, she added another layer of excitement when she revealed her pregnancy with a slight hand motion over what appeared to be a baby bump. Those watching at home were likely looking around at their friends and family with the expression of "is she… no she can't be...that's a baby bump for sure." Her publicist has since confirmed she is indeed expecting her second child after welcoming her first with partner ASAP Rock in May 2022. Sources say that before the performance, she mentioned a guest appearance, and she definitely made history by being the first pregnant woman to perform at the Superbowl. Does this make her baby a Super Bowl performer as well? We think it’s fair to say- yes it does! Did we say iconic already!?
But back to Rihanna's inspiring story, as a Bajan black musician, businesswoman and mother, she proves that we can have it all and excel in our fields, no matter what society says. She is a trailblazer for women and has inspired many to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The 13-minute set showcased her creative and artistic side, proving that she is more than just a pop star. She paid homage to fashion icon Andre Leon Talley, showcasing her appreciation for fashion and its role in music. Rihanna proved that music and fashion go hand-in-hand, and her performance was more than just a show - it was an experience. By forging her own path, she maintains the spotlight and a fashion leader.
Rihanna paying homage wearing a Red Alaia coat in honor of the late icon Andre Leon Talley pictured left. (image:Yahoo)
But her talents go beyond fashion and music. As a black businesswoman, Rihanna has shattered the glass ceiling, showing that women can do it all. She has been an advocate for diversity and equality in the beauty industry, which she also marketed in her performance by taking a quick break to apply Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Instant Setting & Blotting Powder to her face before she grabbed the microphone and continued to show us why she’s there.
Photo : FENTY BEAUTY
She does not conform to any particular style or trend and instead creates her own. Like her Fenty lingerie shows, she gave us movement visuals with 80 dancers who worked the dance floor every second of the halftime performance with intricate moves in complete synchronization. They have now taken over TikTok, wearing their "marshmallow" costumes and expressing their joy and excitement about being a part of such an iconic moment in history. A portion of the dance sequence has already gone viral, all thanks to her long-standing relationship with choreographer Parris Gobel. The pair have been creating visuals together for 7 years, showing Rihanna's ability to create spaces for women and share her platform with many talented hopefuls.
Rihanna performs during Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show at State Farm Stadium (Getty Images for Roc Nation)
Rihanna concluded her Superbowl performance with the fittingly iconic song "Shine bright like a diamond," which reflects her own fierce attitude and unapologetic authenticity in both her personal and professional life, inspiring us all. She exemplifies motherhood, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to self-expression, proving that we don't have to choose just one path in life. As we continue to follow in her footsteps and break down outdated stereotypes, let's remember to keep shining bright like Rihanna.
Rihanna's commitment to her values, dedication to her craft, and unapologetic authenticity make her an inspiration to women everywhere, and although the world keeps eagerly anticipating a new album, we think it's definitely around the corner. It's on-brand for her to maintain a sense of mystery and reveal her work when she sees fit.