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Gone are the days of darkness for pop princess Rihanna. Not only has her jet-black hair disappeared in favor of fiery red locks, she’s also lightened up her sound once again for her new album. The first sample to introduce, or rather, re-introduce fans to the lighthearted and carefree RiRi comes in the form of the Stargate-produced “Only Girl (In The World),” which was premiered today by Ryan Seacrest.
There’s no misconstruing the lyrics or intentions in this song as many fans and some artists did with Rihanna’s kick-off single for her Rated R era, “Russian Roulette.” A downright giggly and flirtatious Rihanna wants a man to make her feel like a woman and she’s taking that message to the dancefloors by singing it out loud against a pulsating, club-ready beat, courtesy of the same team who brought her the OMG-so-catchy hit “Don’t Stop The Music.”
“Only Girl” doesn’t break new ground; it’s a return to form for Rihanna, who has always been this kind of artist. She’s got a knack for making songs people love to dance to and have a hard time getting out of their heads. She wouldn’t be the female leader of the new millennium in terms of Billboard Hot 100 No. 1′s if she wasn’t good at what she does. That’s why it’s understandable that Rated R, an album packed with grimy beats, deep emotion, and a grab-bagful of f-bombs, went over so many people’s heads. However, Rated R was a step in the right direction of true artistry for Rihanna, who many critics previously deemed a one-dimensional “singles artist.” We’re happy to dance with RiRi again, but we truly hope that, at least on some of the album, she pushes forward with letting fans into her world, be it ready to dance or hiding in the dark.
“Only Girl (In The World)” leads Rihanna’s fifth studio album, Loud (she revealed to RihannaDaily.com), in stores later this year.
Rihanna – Only Girl (In The World) [click here to listen]
Two words: Lady GAGA
Very sexy, but not classic “rihanna pop.” I feel that they just put this out to reintroduce the world back to rihanna minus the dark era. I agree with neon limelight I like the dark and light rihanna. I am very happy she is back but I was expected “umbrella” status. I think this is why rihanna rules the charts because she is very unique and retro; I personally think anyone can sing this even I with that beat, because all people want to do is just dance, not focus on the voice so much.
I think that her voice sounds a little strained and weird on this record. It doesn’t seems like she was feeling this song 100%, but of course anything that is rihanna I will support musically!