Rihanna pays thanks to her supporters 20 years after releasing debut album

️ Rihanna Thanks Her Supporters 20 Years After Releasing Debut Album

By Radio 854

On August 29, 2005, a 17-year-old Rihanna released her debut studio album, Music of the Sun, marking the beginning of a legendary global career. To celebrate the 20-year milestone this past week, she shared a deeply personal message across social media, expressing profound gratitude to her fans and support system.

A Journey Rooted in Gratitude

In her post, Rihanna reflected on leaving Barbados—her culture, family, and food—to pursue a dream in the music world. She wrote:

“20 years ago, I left my country, my culture, my food, and family to embark on a journey that started with the release of my very first body of music… I’m forever grateful to all of you. Each of you played a very crucial role…”

Her note continued with heartfelt shout-outs:

• “20 years of the most loyal, die-hard fans that don’t play about me whatsoever”

• “20 years of hard work and hardworking teams around me… lessons… unforgettable experiences…”

• To the industry professionals who believed in her “before it was ‘cool’”, as well as her family, her team, and God for His blessings, ending with “the Glory belongs to Him!”

Visual Retrospective & Fan Celebrations

Accompanying the message was a nostalgic video montage showcasing iconic moments: early music videos (“Pon de Replay”, “SOS”, “Rude Boy”), live performances, her Super Bowl halftime show, Fenty campaigns, and glimpses of motherhood and philanthropy .

To honour the anniversary, Rihanna also launched an R20-branded campaign, exclusive merchandise, and a vinyl box set featuring her full album catalogue to date.

From Debut to Dynasty

Music of the Sun debuted at No. 10 on the Billboard 200, sold over 2 million copies worldwide, and remixed Rihanna’s career trajectory with the breakout single “Pon de Replay” reaching No. 2 in several markets. Since then, she has become one of music’s best-selling artists, earning multiple Grammys, building the Fenty Beauty and Fashion empire, and becoming a national hero for Barbados.

What This Means For Radio 854 Listeners

Rihanna’s message reminds us that her success is not just talent—but also loyalty, collaboration, and community. As fans known as the Navy continue to support her, this anniversary is as much theirs as it is hers. The celebration underscores how a single debut album can spark a two-decade legacy across music, fashion, business, and philanthropy.

Radio 854 invites you to join the celebration:

• Revisit “Music of the Sun” and early hits on air.

• Share your favourite Navy-moment with us.

• Stay tuned for possible new drops tied to the R20 campaign.

Happy 20th anniversary, Music of the Sun—and here’s to Rihanna’s next chapters.