Will We Be Getting a Ninth Album from Rihanna?

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Rihanna’s fans, affectionately known as the Navy, have been holding their collective breaths for years, eagerly awaiting her ninth studio album, dubbed ‘R9.’

As of January 2025, the wait painfully continues, stretching into nearly a decade since her last release. While Rihanna has been busy revolutionising the beauty and fashion industries with her Fenty empire, her music comeback remains an enigma wrapped in speculation.

With cryptic comments and unexpected announcements, the journey to R9 has been anything but straightforward. So, what exactly is happening with her long-anticipated album, and will we ever even get it?

Starting Over, Again

In June 2024, during the launch of Fenty Hair, Rihanna made headlines when she revealed that she had decided to “start over” on her ninth album. This revelation marked yet another twist in the long journey toward R9, coming after years of teasing fans with promises of a reggae-inspired project that hints of genre experimentation.

“I want it to be perfect,” she reportedly said. “When I make music, it’s got to feel right.” This candid admission not only reinforced Rihanna’s artistic integrity but also raised the stakes for what fans can expect from her next era.

 

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Starting over signals a bold new direction, one that has only fuelled the mounting anticipation. Fans are left speculating whether this new approach means exploring new sounds or collaborations? But perfection does take time, and if anyone’s earned the right to take her time it’s Riri.

Her commitment to excellence, both in her music and business ventures, has set a standard that very few can rival.

A Potential World Tour

Adding to the buzz, rumours of a massive world tour in 2025 have been circulating. Reports suggest that Rihanna is planning a blockbuster comeback to the stage, one that would mark her first tour in nearly a decade.

For an artist whose live performances are legendary, the idea of her hitting the road again feels like a cultural moment in the making, although there’s no official dates or locations have been announced. Beyond the music, a world tour would also offer Riri a chance to showcase her evolution as an artist and performer.

Known for her stage presence, bold concert visuals, and trendsetting outfits, Rihanna’s shows are an experience everyone wants to be apart of.

Retirement Rumours

However, not all news has been reassuring. In November 2024, Rihanna sparked retirement rumours after making cryptic comments about her music career.

During an interview, she stated, “Music got me attention, but God had other plans for me.” The statement left fans questioning whether her focus has permanently shifted away from the recording studio. Some interrupted her words as a farewell to the music industry, while others believe it’s simply a reflection of her evolving priorities.

 

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Balancing It All

Rihanna’s life has become the ultimate balancing act of juggling superstardom, business empires, and personal milestones. From launching Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty lines that have redefined inclusivity in beauty and fashion, to embracing motherhood with the arrival of her second child, Riri’s plate is undeniably full, and she handles it like a champ.

Despite her packed schedule, Rihanna has always emphasised that her love for music remains close to her heart. In her words, “It’s not about just realising an album. It’s about music that matters.” This statement reflects her deep commitment to quality over quantity.

She’s not content with simply churning out tracks to satisfy demand, she’s focused on delivering work that stands on business. That’s why Anti, her last album, still remains a cultural touchstone nearly a decade after its release.

The Final Verdict

While the world eagerly waits for any concrete updates on R9, the reality of the matter is that Rihanna operates on her own clock, and honestly, who can blame her?

 

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Whether she’s perfecting her next iconic album or laying the groundwork for a show-stopping return to the stage, one thing remains undeniable: Rihanna’s influence stretches far beyond music.

For now, the Navy will have to practice patience, though it’s not without its challenges. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that Rihanna doesn’t miss. If she does finally decide to make her musical comeback, there’s no doubt it’ll be yet another example of why she’s earned her spot as one of the greatest multi-hyphenates of our time.

So, while the wait continues, one thing is for certain: when Riri is ready, the world will be too.