Pop queen Rihanna performed at the Super Bowl LVII halftime show on Sunday, Feb. 12. After four years of ghosting the music industry, she came back and shined bright like a diamond. 

She was introduced in a beaming red outfit rising above the football field surrounded by dancers in puffy white suits. The backup dancers looked like marshmallows surrounding the fire. After watching her arrival, the music began to play. The crowd was screaming at the top of their lungs when she opened the night with “[Sic] Better Have My Money.” Everyone was ecstatic to hear the beloved star put on an incredible show after so long. Further on she sang “Where Have You Been,” which is ironic because that is what everyone was thinking at that moment. 

As her setlist continued, all I could think about was that I never realized the amount of Rihanna songs I knew. She has had the music industry in a chokehold since 2005. She played all of her most popular songs including “We Found Love,” “Work,” “Wild Thoughts,” “All of the Lights,” “Umbrella” and “Diamonds.” I was singing along and texting everyone I know to go watch the show.

One part of the show I was disappointed with is that she didn’t perform “Pon De Replay.” I understand it is one of her older songs, but everytime I hear it I am reminded of my childhood. It would have been exciting to see her sing it live. It was also unfortunate that she did not invite any guests to sing on stage with her. Many of her singles include other artists like DJ Khaled, who is featured in the song “Wild Thoughts.” Seeing them walk out onto the field would’ve been a huge surprise to the 113 million viewers. 

In 2022, Rihanna’s first child was born which caused her to focus her life on her baby boy. Something that caught America’s eye was that Rihanna seemed to be pregnant once again. The rumors were confirmed by her managers following her performance. This means there may be a few more years until any new music is released.

It was wonderful to have Rihanna make a strong comeback during the biggest football game of the year and America’s favorite holiday. After decades of releasing music and going on tour, she still has the skills. She is wildly entertaining and an extremely successful female popstar. From music to her own makeup line, Rihanna has made an impact on pop culture today and will continue to be viewed as an icon.

Contact Anna Frazier at [email protected]