Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs

#TeamBeautiful are avid fans of the sensation that is Rihanna. Like Lifestyle Editor Danielle Young says, “she gives us a whole new emotion.” The rebellious beauty turned 25 today and while we don’t need an excuse to write about her– we do so on the daily–we just felt an ode to our favorite artist’s music was so necessary!

Take a journey, with us, through Rihanna’s impressive catalog of sultry hits and don’t be afraid to let loose just as the “Rock Star 101″ singer would!

“Rude Boy”

Shamika Sanders- Entertainment Editor

I was late to the Rihanna train. I didn’t start loving her until 2010, circa the release of her island-inspired single “Rude Boy.” It could have been that year, it was such a transitional time for me, or how much the rhythm commands your body to move–but it brings me pure joy and still gets me hype to this day. Aside from my love for the tune. I am infatuated with the visuals. Ri Ri’s sultry moves and oozing sexuality reminds me of myself. She represents the young, unafraid and fabulous!

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

“Diamonds”

Danielle Young- Lifestyle Editor

From the moment I heard the beat drop in “Diamonds,” I knew it was a hit. I absolutely love the words, “Feel the warmth will never die, we’re like diamonds in the sky…” I’ve listened to Rihanna since “Pon’ De Replay,” but was never quite a fan until “Loud.” Her music, while catchy and fun, has matured into such a thrilling sound and this track is proof.

Every time the song comes on my iPod, instantly, I close my eyes, sway and mouth the words, channeling my inner Milli Vanilli. Even though Rihanna is imitating Sia’s vocals on the track, I find the sound simple and hypnotizing.

While its clearly an anthem, the lyrics are tragically alluring. It’s crazy how even in its tragedy, it inspires. “So, shine bright,” is such a potent reminder for me to be better, do better and want better everyday.

Watch Rihanna’s video to “Diamonds.”

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

“Where Have You Been”

Deborah Bennett- Senior Editor

I was not a Rihanna fan musically until this song. Granted I sang along to “Rude Boy,” but that was the West Indian in me feeling my roots. This song may lack poetic prowess, but it makes me want to dance EVERY time I hear it, and can we talk about the choreography? Yes I’m not ashamed to say that I practiced those moves in my mirror in the privacy of my own home.

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

“We Found Love”

Ty Brown- Style & Beauty Editor

Back when I use to frequent the gym three times a week, before life started doing the most with my time, a Rihanna mega-playlist would always get me up the hills on the treadmill. There are so many songs that I love from the Barbadian princess, it was super hard to pick just one. As annoying as our office anthem “Diamonds” became, I still break out into the ultimate fist pump when I hear it outside of our cubical walls.

If I have to choose just one song, “We Found Love” would be at the top of my long list of favorites. Whenever I’m feeling like a bum because I’ve eaten too many glazed donuts, I get “turnt up” swing my hair anf dance around my bedroom mirror. On a good day I’ll add a few twerks.

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

“Shut Up And Drive”

Leigh Davenport- Editorial Director

There was this glorious time in my life way back in 2007 where I frequented the hottest night clubs in New York City dancing until the lights came on Sunday through Thursday. Many songs remind me of this glorious time in my life but Rih-Rih’s “Please Don’t Stop The Music” epitomizes the sentiment of my party girl ways. Please don’t ever let the party end!

I love the Michael Jackson sample in this song, the way it ushers in house and techno beats but still manages to have a soulful melody and a message every girl can rally on. When I hear this I still imagine me and my best girl friend spotting each other across the dance floor, jumping up and down and screaming, and dancing until we were out of breath. This was the beginning of mainstream pop-diva Rihanna and I love it!

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

“You Da One”

Joy Adaeze- Fashion & Beauty Writer

This song is like the thrill of young love. It’s so cute and has a great feel. Perfect chill song with my boo!

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

“Rockstar 101″

Shanequa Golding- Assistant To CCO

I must admit, I wasn’t always the biggest Rihanna fan. (I know, I went to rehab and cleansed myself of the foolery) I wasn’t used to seeing a woman live her life-flaws and all-so unabashed and so unapologetic. But that all changed when she released “Rockstar 101.” The song is so edgy, so grungy, it lacked table manners and I loved it! You can’t help but want to wear leather, throw on dark eyeliner, and tell everyone who has a problem with you to buzz off! The song only got better once I learned guitar rock God Slash was featured. (I dressed up as Slash for Halloween that year to boot!)

From that point on Rihanna has been my girl, I have been a proud card-carrying member of the Navy!

MUST READ: 2012 Was The Year Of Rihanna!

MUST READ: Rihanna, Drake & Frank Ocean Make Forbes ’30 Under 30′ List

Like HelloBeautiful on Facebook to stay on top of your favorite black celebrities:

Happy Birthday Rihanna: #TeamBeautiful’s Top Ri Ri Songs was originally published on ionehellobeautiful.staging.go.ione.nyc

Rihanna Birthday: