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rihanna return to music
rihanna return to music
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Culture

Will Rihanna Return To Music In 2026? Her Jay-Z Performance Has Fans Optimistic

The story over the weekend of July 11 was all about Jay-Z. The iconic rapper took over Yankee Stadium for three days to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his debut album, Reasonable Doubt. Social media was filled with an endless stream of videos from the shows, featuring Jay-Z alongside guest performers like Alicia Keys, Nas, Pharrell, Blue Ivy, Beyoncé, and none other than Rihanna. Not only did the performances show just how many hits Jay-Z has in his extensive discography, but it also reminded fans why he is such a well-respected rapper. 

Unfortunately, though, on July 12 — the night of the final show — it looked like a magical three days was going to end in a decidedly un-magical way. Fans were reportedly kept waiting outside of the venue for hours. Jay-Z and his team stated that they were concerned for everyone’s safety, as fans had attempted to rush inside before the show’s start. I went to bed thinking that that was it: No concert. Instead, I woke up this morning and couldn’t believe my eyes: Rihanna. On stage. Yes, you read that correctly! 

For the first time in years, Rihanna took the stage alongside her mentor and friend Jay-Z to perform “Run This Town” and “Bitch Better Have My Money” in front of the sold-out crowd. She looked and sounded great, and the fans at Yankee Stadium made sure she knew it. At one point, Rihanna joked about being rusty. It’s not like anyone in the building really cared about that, though. They were at a once-in-a-lifetime concert witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime moment with one of the biggest music superstars ever. It really doesn’t get much better than that. 

Naturally, this return to the stage has people wondering what it means when it comes to the ever-elusive project, R9. It’s been 10 — yes, 10 — years since Rihanna has released an album. Her 2023 Super Bowl performance made everyone realize just how much they miss her. So, as expected, fans are curious about whether or not this means a new era is finally on its way. Will Rihanna return to music this year?

I’ve been a member of the Navy since I was a little girl, so, like so many people out there, I’m beyond ready to see Rihanna come back to music. Unfortunately, though, it seems like Rih isn’t just ready to share “R9” with the world just yet. She’s got three babies to take care of (one of which she gave birth to less than a year ago) and a beauty empire to run. Life is life-ing for her right now. That said, the fact that she hopped on stage with Jay-Z and even performed one of her own songs is a great sign that music is still on her mind. Even better, she said she misses performing. Oh, and did I mention she’s been in the studio?

Have no fear, everyone. R9 might not be here yet, but I think we’re getting closer.

Leila Williams

U Mich '26

Leila Williams is a member of the Her Campus National Writers program and contributes to the publication's Culture and Style section.

Leila is a recent graduate of the University of Michigan. She received a B.A. in Communication and Media, and minored in Japanese language. Outside of academics and Her Campus, Leila is a member of the Michigan Music Business Club, a pre-professional organization determined to create the future leaders of the music industry. She spent a year on the club's newsletter team where she wrote monthly pieces spotlighting the careers of various music artists such as Tyla, Doechii, and Chappell Roan.

Whenever she has the opportunity, Leila is getting on a flight and traveling to a different part of the country or the world. She is a major foodie and a matcha enthusiast. Leila is a lover of music and enjoys going to concerts to see her favorite artists. In her spare time, she is often playing video games or catching up on her favorite TV shows. Given the chance, Leila will happily ramble about the latest happenings in Formula One to anyone who will listen.