#55 ANTIRihanna

Genres: Pop, dancehall, psychedelic soul, alternative R&B

Description

ANTI by Rihanna addresses the themes of relationships, self-assurance, and personal evolution. Released amidst Rihanna’s transition from Def Jam to Roc Nation, this album combines a genre-spanning array of lyrical and musical styles with raw, soulful performances. Each track conveys messages of love, resilience, and unapologetic confidence.

Background

Following the success of her seventh studio album, Unapologetic, and an extensive period of touring, Rihanna ventured into a new musical direction with ANTI. This album marked her departure from Def Jam and was a product of creative freedom under Jay-Z's Roc Nation. Rihanna's collaborators on the album included noteworthy producers and songwriters such as SZA, Bibi Bourelly, and Kuk Harrell, resulting in a deeply personal and experimental body of work.

Notable Tracks

• "Consideration": A dub-inspired track featuring SZA, setting the tone for the album with themes of independence and artistic freedom.
• "Work": A reggae-pop collaboration with Drake, notable for its infectious beat and playful, yet introspective lyrics.
• "Kiss It Better": A pop power ballad that combines deep synths and an electric guitar to explore irresistible, yet destructive relationships.
• "Love on the Brain": A 50s-inspired doo-wop ballad that showcases Rihanna's vocal range and emotional depth.

Reception and Impact

ANTI was noted for its experimental nature and Rihanna's soulful vocal performances. It debuted at number 27 on the Billboard 200 and later peaked at number one, marking Rihanna's second album to reach the top spot. The album's production, featuring a mix of different genres and minimalistic, bass-heavy tracks, provided a perfect foundation for Rihanna's messages of self-assurance and vulnerability. It received multiple accolades, including Favorite Soul/R&B Album at the 2016 American Music Awards and was recognized in numerous "best of" lists by publications such as Rolling Stone and Billboard.

Legacy

ANTI remains a significant milestone in Rihanna's discography, reflecting her departure from traditional pop and her evolution into a versatile and daring artist. The album's themes and musical experimentation continue to resonate, marking it as a defining piece of 21st-century pop.