Until recently, Lady Gaga has dominated the title of most viewed female artist on YouTube's VEVO. Now, by breaking two billion combined views on her music videos, Rihanna has usurped the Lady. In view of this accomplishment, along with her approaching birthday on Feb. 20, it's time to examine Rihanna's success over the past seven years.
Born in Barbados, Robyn Rihanna Fenty moved to the United States when she was 16. Soon after, the hit that jumpstarted her career "Pon de Replay" was being blasted on stereos across the country. Hits like "S.O.S." and "Unfaithful" only further propelled her career.
As of 2011, Rihanna has sold 30 million albums worldwide along with 100 million digital songs. She has also won multiple Grammy awards – including Best Dance Recording – as well as other awards in both the U.S. and Europe.
Rihanna is also the only female artist of the past decade, as well as the only soloist, to chart 11 No. 1 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 list. Now with her sixth album showing similar signs of success since its release last November, it is clear she shows no plans of slowing down.
The Barbadian artist isn't recognized solely for her music success either; she is also known as a chic fashion icon. Featured in multiple blogs and fashion magazines, including Vogue, Rihanna has matured in both the fashion industry and the music world.
Though she isn't the designer, she has made her edgy looks, including her recognizable haircuts, work time and time again. Since her style seems to vary from month to month, fashion experts continue to debate whether her choices cross the line or set new standards.
Rihanna was nominated for three Grammy awards this year, including Best Pop Vocal Album and Album of the Year. She won Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "All of the Lights" along with Kayne West, Kid Cudi and Fergie.
Don't fret if you're looking for more Rihanna later this spring. She's kicking off her acting career in the upcoming film Battleship on May 18.