Rihanna has been famous in the music industry for years. She first made waves with her memorable lyrics and chart-topping hits, and continues to contribute significantly to the music world. But, have you ever wondered if Rihanna writes her own songs?
Rihanna has stated in interviews that she does enjoy writing songs, and often comes up with the initial idea or concept for a track. However, she usually relies on professional songwriters and producers to polish her ideas and help create the final product.
Even though she doesn’t write most of her songs, her unique voice and style make her one of the most popular artists to ever grace the stage. Here are some songs that Rihanna has co-written, as well as other tracks produced by various artists specifically for her.
What Songs Did Rihanna Co-Write?
“Rude Boy” – rated R (2009)
This song was co-written by Rihanna, Ester Dean, Makeba Riddick, Rob Swire, Tor Erik Hermansen, and Mikkel S. Eriksen (from Stargate).
“Rude Boy” is a lively and flirty song about being in control and being the one who calls the shots in a relationship.
The lyrics talk about how the girl is “rude” because she won’t let the guy get away with anything. Rihanna’s sassy attitude and confident delivery make this song one of her most iconic hits.
“FourFiveSeconds” (2015)
This track was co-written by Rihanna, Paul McCartney, Kanye West, Ty Dolla $ign, Elon Rutberg, Dave Longstreth Dallas Austin, and producers Kirby Dockery, Mike Dean, and Noah Goldstein. This song is about being yourself, no matter what other people think or say.
The lyrics encourage listeners to be confident and stay true to themselves. The song is diverse and unique, with each artist bringing their own style to the track. It was performed by Rihanna, Kanye West, and Paul McCartney.
“Dancing in the Dark” – Home (2015)
From the animated movie “Home,” Rihanna wrote this song with Ester Dean, Maureen McDonald, and producers from Stargate.
The song’s message is one of hope despite being lost and alone. It will remind you to never give up no matter what obstacles life throws at you. The lyrics are uplifting and empowering, with a catchy beat that will keep you singing along.
“Needed Me” – Anti (2016)
This track is written by Rihanna, along with Adam Feeney, Charles Hinshaw Jr., Derrus Rachel, Dijon McFarlane, Te Whiti Warbrick, and other producers.
With the lyrics, “Didn’t they tell you I was a savage?/Fck your white horse and your carriage,” Rihanna ain’t tolerating men’s crap anymore. The song is a powerful anthem about being independent and not needing anyone else to complete you.
What Songs Were Written For Rihanna By Others?
“Only Girl (In the World)”- Loud (2010)
This song is about being the only girl that a guy needs. The lyrics talk about how the man should appreciate everything she does for him, and how no one else can compare to her.
Written by Crystal Johnson, Rihanna entrusted Stargate and Sandy Vee to produce and polish this track. Because of this song, she won the Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electric Recording in 2011.
“Umbrella” – Good Girl Gone Bad (2007)
This sweet song is about being there for someone, no matter what the weather is like, being loyal and supportive through thick and thin. The lyrics talk about how the person is always welcome under the singer’s umbrella.
This hit was co-written by Tricky Stewart, Jay-Z, Kuk Harrell, and Terius Nash. It was produced by Christopher Stewart and Kuk Harrell. “Umbrella” has topped the charts and earned Jay-Z and Rihanna a Grammy Award.
“We Found Love” – Talk That Talk (2011)
Hopeless love, toxic relationships, and moving on are all themes explored in this club banger. The lyrics talk about how the couple is caught up in a passionate, but ultimately destructive relationship.
The song was written and produced by Calvin Harris. The song has topped the US Billboard Hot 100 for ten straight weeks and sold over 10.5 million copies in 2015. Making the track as one of the best-selling singles of all time.
“Don’t Stop The Music” – Good Girl Gone Bad (2007)
This is a dance track that talks about how music is the best way to forget your troubles and just let loose. The lyrics talk about how the party doesn’t have to end and encourages everyone to keep dancing all night long.
Frankie Storm, Mikkel Eriksen, and Tor Erik Hermansen composed this song. Stargate produced it, while songwriting credit for the now-iconic line “Mama-say, mama-sa, ma-ma-koosa” was given to Michael Jackson.
Conclusion
Rihanna is one of the best pop and R&B icons of our generation. Though she didn’t write all of her songs, the ones she has co-written are some of her most popular and iconic tracks. Producers and other artists have also written songs specifically for Rihanna, which have gone on to be massive hits.
No matter who writes her songs, Rihanna always puts her own spin on them, making them uniquely hers. She always gives proper credit to her collaborators, and has even won awards for some of the songs she didn’t write.
Rihanna is a true talent, and there is no doubt that she will continue to make hits with her amazing team and other artists for years to come.
Rihanna Featured Image by: SIGMA, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
