Rihanna

Stephen A. Smith Is Now Bringing His Trash Takes To The Music World, Apparently

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ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is well-known for his controversial sports opinions — you could say he’s made his career on them. But perhaps out of habit, he just made a comparison that’ll have a whole new group of fans fighting mad at him.

The outspoken First Take host appeared on the daytime talk show Sherri, where he was asked about Rihanna’s upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show — it’s technically in his wheelhouse and gives the audience some common footing with him, so not a bad question, all told.

But his “first take” made an age-old comparison that isn’t likely to endear him to the daytime talk crowd, or to fans of the two artists he contrasted. “I don’t wanna say I’m not excited,” he said. “She’s fantastic. That’s not where I’m going with this. Ladies and gentlemen, she’s a lot of things. She’s spectacular, actually. And congratulations on new-momma-hood. There’s one thing she’s not. She ain’t Beyoncé.”

The two singers have been pitted against each other for years but doing so has become something of a sore spot. Unfortunately, Smith’s entire job more or less consists of comparing athletes to each other, so when he was potentially out of his depth (name one Rihanna song, album, or feature without Google, Stephen!) he fell back on what he knows.

Although, in his mind, he apparently had a good reason for doing so. “The only reason I brought up Beyoncé is because Beyoncé recently performed at the Super Bowl, with and without Bruno Mars and Coldplay,” he explained. “Rihanna’s music is fantastic. She’s great. She’s a sister. I love her dearly. I listen to her music. I’m gonna support her until the cows come home. I’m just telling you: for me, there’s Beyoncé and there’s everybody else. Just like there was Michael Jackson and there’s everybody else.”

Hey look, whatever floats your boat. But a word of advice for Smith: Kobe fans may drive to featureless California towns to fight you, but the Navy (and the Hive) never forgets. Turn off your notifications now.

Stephen A. Smith Talks Halftime Show: Rihanna “Ain’t Beyoncé”

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The Navy is fired up this morning after hearing what Stephen A. Smith had to say about Rihanna. We’re less than one month away from Super Bowl LVII, which will also host a performance by the icon. People have speculated what the Fenty billionaire will bring to the stage, and Smith weighed in during a recent interview. His comments quickly spread like wildfire.

While on Sherri, Smith was asked if he was excited about the halftime show. “I don’t want to say I’m not excited,” said Smith. “She’s fantastic. That’s not where I’m going with this.”

Read More: Jay-Z Will Help Rihanna’s Super Bowl Halftime Show

“Ladies and gentlemen, she’s a lot of things,” Smith continued as he referenced Rihanna. “She’s spectacular, actually. And congratulations on new mamahood.” The audience was co-signing the compliments before Smith shook things up.

“There’s one thing she’s not: she ain’t Beyoncé,” the commentator added to an audibly shocked crowd. Sherri Shepherd jumped in to praise Rihanna’s talents.

“The only reason I brought up Beyoncé is because Beyoncé recently performed at the Super Bowl,” he replied. “And without Bruno Mars and Coldplay.”

SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 09: In this image released on November 9, Rihanna attends Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 4 presented by Prime Video at Allied Studios on November 08, 2022 in Simi Valley, California; and broadcast on November 9, 2022. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 4 presented by Prime Video)
Read More: Rihanna Drops Super Bowl Halftime Show Trailer

As the audience’s reaction almost overpowered the conversation, Shepherd also said this was Rihanna’s time, not Bey’s.

“Rihanna’s coming back, she’s got that extra oomph of motherhood. I like Rihanna!” said the talk show host.

Smith was unmoved. “I like television, I like a lotta talent out there. There’s some spectacular females in television, I just wanna say that. Everybody ain’t Sherri. That’s not throwing shade on them! That’s appreciating their greatness but understanding there’s levels.”

NEW ORLEANS, LA – FEBRUARY 03: Singer Beyonce performs during the Pepsi Super Bowl XLVII Halftime Show at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage)
Read More: Rihanna Shows Off Super Bowl Halftime Show Merch As Her Return To The Stage Nears

“Rihanna’s music is fantastic. She’s great, she’s a sister. I love her dearly, I listen to her music. I’m gonna support her ’til the cows come home! I’m just telling you, for me, there’s Beyoncé, there’s everybody else.”

He also mentioned Michael Jackson’s status, suggesting everyone else falls under the late icon.

This hot take certainly set off social media, so check out the clip above and a few reactions below.

Rihanna Is LOVING Motherhood & Calls A$AP Rocky a ‘Great Dad’

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Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Take Their Son to the Beach for a Photoshoot

Rihanna continues to wow the world effortlessly, and fans could not have been happier when she revealed she was pregnant with boyfriend A$AP Rocky. In May last year, the two lovebirds welcomed their newborn into the world, whose remains unknown (probably with good reason). 

A source recently told PEOPLE that both 34-year-olds are filled with joy and enjoying their first run of parenthood, with the baby boy approximately eight years old. The insider states, “Rihanna loves being a mom. She is obsessed with her baby boy.”

They also add that the A$AP Mob founder is “very involved as well and a great dad.”

@rihanna

hacked

♬ original sound – Rihanna

Last month, Rihanna took to TikTok to share a heartwarming clip of their son in his car seat in the back, with the “Diamonds” recording artist presumably in the passenger seat and the vehicle in motion. The video sees the infant smiling at his mother, as she asks him, “You tryna get mommy’s phone?” – before zooming in on his tiny hands.

The viral clip currently boasts over 5.5 million likes and counting, serving as Rih’s first post on the social media app. The caption reads “hacked,” capturing the beautiful moment with a splash of comedy.

Rihanna first shared her baby bump last January, after being photographed in New York City. At the time, a source shared her sentiments about Rihanna’s excitement for motherhood. 

“Rihanna is doing well,” she states. “They are very excited to be parents. Rihanna is already a wonderful mom.”

“Everything Rihanna does, she does it her own way on her own timetable, and having a baby is no different,” they add. “They’re just like any other pair of parents-to-be. Yes, they happen to be famous, but they’re just the cutest, giddiest young couple that’s expecting kids.”

Fans were overjoyed when she made an appearance on the Blank Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack in November of from return to music came in the form of the single “Lift Me Up,” whose vocals paired perfectly as the movie took viewers on an emotional rollercoaster.

What’s next for Rih? Her highly-anticipated performance at the Super Bowl, as she announced she’d be the headlining act. The 34-year-old told The Associated Press, “If I’m going to leave my baby, I’m going to leave my baby for something special. It was now or never for me.”

This year’s Super Bowl will serve as Rihanna’s first live show since she blessed the Grammys in 2018 with an unforgettable performance of “Wild Thoughts.”

The post Rihanna Is LOVING Motherhood & Calls A$AP Rocky a ‘Great Dad’ appeared first on The Source.

Jordin Sparks Suggests Chris Brown & Rihanna Beef Caused “No Air” Grammys Snub: Watch

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It’s been 15 years since Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown came together to make magic on “No Air.“ To this day, though, the American Idol alum continues to defend her friend. In the past, she’s shut down those who continue to bring up the father of three’s prior allegations of abuse – even though they may have cost her a Grammy.

Earlier this month, the “One Step At A Time” hitmaker appeared on Cut’s “Truth or Drink” video series. During the interview, the host couldn’t help but go back in time to the 2009 award ceremony. At the time, Breezy was arrested due to an altercation with his then-girlfriend, Rihanna.

Singers Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown in the audience during the 2007 American Music Awards held at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE on November 18, 2007 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/AMA/Getty Images for AMA)

According to Sparks, she found out about the incident “like everybody else [did].” As she recalls, label publicists approached her on the red carpet, telling the singer, “You know nothing.”

At the time, she had no idea about what happened, just that “No Air” was up for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals at the Grammys. Under normal circumstances, the night would’ve been a dream come true. However, it obviously took a turn for the worse after Breezy’s arrest.

Sparks says she found out the truth during the ceremony. At first, she was confident that they “had a really good chance of winning.” Ultimately, though, it was Robert Plant and Alison Krauss’ work on “Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)” that took the trophy.

“I couldn’t believe it,” the 33-year-old told Cut. “A lot of stuff that happened after that was not me. I think a lot of the powers that had a hand in, like… [I] didn’t know the ins and outs of the industry,” she further explained.

Reliving what could’ve been with “No Air” is never easy. Luckily, the interview also found Sparks happily discussing her solo music and her relationship. “Have you ever done the nasty while listening to your own music?” the host asked her.

From off-camera, her husband, Dana Isaiah quickly answers for her, “Yes.” As his wife laughs, she jokes, “I don’t even get to take a shot, damn it!” Afterward, she says the track of choice for the bedroom is “Silhouette” from her Right Here Right Now album.

Check out Jordin Sparks’ full “Truth or Drink” episode below, and check back later for more music news updates.

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Jay-Z Reportedly “Helping” Rihanna With Super Bowl LVII Halftime Performance, Roc Nation To Organize Show

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rihanna jay z superbowl

With Super Bowl LVII happening in just under a month, many are anticipating Rihanna’s halftime performance. Surely she has a stacked discography, hits after hits, and notable features, but she also hasn’t dropped an album since 2016. With all that time in between now and then, fans aren’t sure what to expect.

Now, it’s being reported that Jay-Z is helping her with her performance, which raises the question will he be one of her special guests. According to CapitalFM, Hov and Roc Nation are organizing the performance set for February 12.

While this does not necessarily mean Hov will join Rihanna on stage, the most we could hope for is to see the two of them perform “Run This Town.”

“Rihanna is a generational talent, a woman of humble beginnings who has surpassed expectations at every turn, Hov said in a statement after it was announced Rihanna would be the halftime show performer. “A person born on the small island of Barbados who became one of the most prominent artists ever. Self-made in business and entertainment.”

Earlier this month, Rihanna shared a teaser of what might be expected to come in her performance.

The post Jay-Z Reportedly “Helping” Rihanna With Super Bowl LVII Halftime Performance, Roc Nation To Organize Show appeared first on The Source.

Rihanna “Loves Being A Mom” With “Great Dad” A$AP Rocky

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One of the music world’s most beloved power couples still turns heads with every new tidbit. Moreover, a recent report from People said that Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are “obsessed” with their baby boy. According to an unnamed source, the “Umbrella” singer “loves being a mom” and her partner is a “great dad.”

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 24: A$AP Rocky and Rihanna attend Mercer Prince Collab at 42 D’or on September 24, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Furthermore, the couple welcomed their child into the world in May of 2022, so his first birthday isn’t far off. Even though both artists have millions of fans begging for new music, stronger priorities are clearly at play. Moreover, People‘s source spoke to them about their relationship.

“Rihanna loves being a mom. She is obsessed with her baby boy,” the insider stated. Also, they added that the “Praise The Lord” rapper is “very involved as well and a great dad.”

@rihanna

hacked

♬ original sound – Rihanna

Most recently, the “Fashion Killa” collaborators’ son made his TikTok debut on Rihanna’s page. In the endearing video, the son smiled and cooed at his mother, while she asked “You trying to get Mommy’s phone?” While many loved the child’s reveal and showed love, the couple haven’t shared his name yet.

Later in the clip, their son yawned as he looked out of a car window, and it marks Rihanna’s first TikTok post. She captioned it with “Hacked,” so maybe the little guy is smarter than his age lets on.

Regardless, unnamed sources already gave media outlets some info on the couple’s new baby, even right when he was born. Moreover, People reported that the couple stayed in their Los Angeles home when Rihanna birthed her son.

“Rihanna is doing well. They are very excited to be parents. Rihanna is already a wonderful mom,” a source said upon the baby’s birth.

“Everything Rihanna does, she does it her own way on her own timetable, and having a baby is no different,” another source expressed when they announced the baby was coming. Also, the source said they were incredibly happy from the jump. “They’re just like any other pair of parents-to-be. Yes, they happen to be famous, but they’re just the cutest, giddiest young couple that’s expecting kids.”

What do you think of Rihanna and A$AP Rocky loving their mom and dad roles with their son? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for more wholesome celebrity pairings.

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Jay-Z Will Help Rihanna’s Super Bowl Halftime Show

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As football fans and regular old schmoes anticipate the 2023 Super Bowl, hip-hop and R&B fans have an extra reason to celebrate. Jay-Z will reportedly help Rihanna with her Super Bowl halftime show on February 12th. Moreover, capitalfm.com reported that Roc Nation as a whole is also involved in the process.

LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 11: Rihanna and Jay Z attend 2017 Roc Nation Pre-GRAMMY brunch at Owlwood Estate on February 11, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Roc Nation)

Furthermore, this news is exciting for the “Umbrella” collaborators, although not at all surprising. After all, Hov is the live music entertainment strategist for the NFL. Also, he signed RiRi back in 2004 when he was the president and CEO of Def Jam. All in all, audiences expect a crazy event when she lands at Glendale, Arizona’s State Farm Stadium. Here’s hoping they perform some hits together.

Meanwhile, all parties understand the excitement behind the show. The “B***h Better Have My Money” artist teased her performance on Instagram last week. In the snippet, the recently-turned mother walks towards the camera in a black bodysuit with a yellow fur coat. While she reaches the camera, you can hear soundbites of people lamenting the lack of music from her. Then, RiRi puts a finger to her lips, shushes the haters, and “Needed Me” plays. Even if it’s a teaser for new music and not the show itself, that prepared fans with hype regardless.

However, one question on everyone’s mind is whether she’ll bring out special guests. It’s a Super Bowl staple, as last year brought us a legendary hip-hop team-up. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Anderson .Paak… RiRi’s got some competition. Still, any information on the fashion mogul’s show is top-secret, though we’re sure she will stun. Although guests are expected, she did tell E! News last November that she might perform alone given her short 12-minute slot.

“Twelve minutes?” the 34-year-old exclaimed. “You could actually do that by yourself, but it’s one of those things where you can decorate it however you want. So whether I choose to do it for myself or whether I choose to bring some of my peers on, it’s…I don’t know what I’m gonna do yet. It’s gonna be great either way.” Regardless of her show format, the football will commence at 6:30pm ET on Fox Sports. Meanwhile, the “Bad Gal”‘s halftime show is set to start at 8pm ET.

What do you think of Jay-Z helping organize Rihanna’s 2023 Super Bowl halftime show? Do you think he’ll pop out for a verse or two? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for the latest on RiRi’s upcoming spectacle.

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Rihanna’s Sultry Savage X Fenty Selfie Streak Continues

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If there’s one thing you can always count on Rihanna to deliver, it’s a thirst trap. There’s arguably never a bad time of year to post a thirst trap on your Instagram feed, but of course, there’s something about Valentine’s Day that puts an undeniable hint of romance in the air.

As is tradition, the Bad Gal’s lingerie brand, Savage X Fenty, unleashed its themed collection well ahead of the holiday so shoppers can take full advantage. Amidst this year’s pieces are patterns like Lovestruck, Living in the Clouds, and Rebel.

Rihanna attends Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” premiere at Dolby Theatre on October 26, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images)

While she has plenty of beautiful pieces and inclusive bodies modelling the products on her site, it wouldn’t be an SXF drop if Rihanna didn’t pose in a few looks herself.

All through the weekend, the 34-year-old delivered a series of snaps that see her expertly showing off her curves. In some, she pairs peep-toe heels with a black lace jumpsuit complete with a chest cutout. Others see her sporting the Hotline pattern while arching her back on top of a glass table.

“Heartbreaker szn,” Rihanna captioned her most recent photo dump. In the first image, she squats while giving the camera a sultry glare – her long black hair blowing in the apparent breeze. Afterward, the new mother teases her followers with a flirtatious look at her backside, as well as a closer look at the outfit’s details.

If Valentine’s Day isn’t really your thing, fear not. The Savage X Fenty site has something for everyone this season, especially football fans.

As you may recall, Rihanna is due to take the stage at the upcoming Super Bowl Halftime show next month. It’s entirely possible that a celebrity guest could be joining her, though most details remain under wraps at this time.

Ahead of her performance, she’s been promoting her brand’s new Game Day collection, which includes boxers, hoodies, beanies, tube tops, and more.

See more of Rihanna’s recent Instagram thirst traps below, and check back later for more pop culture news updates.

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Rihanna Preps For Valentine’s Day With Sexy New Savage X Fenty Lingerie Campaign

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2022 was primarily focused on Rihanna’s first pregnancy. In 2023 though, the new mother is proving to the world that she’s back and better than ever in all areas of her life. January has seen her putting in plenty of work, specifically for her upcoming Super Bowl Halftime show, but also for a certain romantic holiday that’s quickly approaching.

The Bad Gal has always been a fashion lover. That clearly comes through in each one of her Savage X Fenty collections. This year, she threw on some of the latest designs herself to model in a sultry campaign shoot. “Phuck yo roses,” she wrote in the caption of the tantalizing teaser.

Rocking a black lace jumpsuit with a large chest cutout, Rihanna strikes various poses for the camera. She expertly shows off her famous figure from the front and back, leaving no angle unflaunted. At the same time, we see glass smashing and hear almost robotic music playing.

In another image that was posted to the @savagexfenty Instagram account, the 34-year-old poses atop a glass table. In this image, she wears a similar look, though instead of lace, this one looks to be a multi-coloured pattern.

“Hot from e’ry angle,” the caption reads. “Get into our new VDay collection – on the site now.” As promised, the brand’s online store boasts everything from men’s pyjamas to lipstick print cozy sets. Prices begin around $35 CAD and only go up from there.

Of course, the Valentine’s Day collection isn’t the only thing Rihanna’s been promoting to her followers. To celebrate her forthcoming performance at the Super Bowl, Savage X Fenty is also selling merchandise to commemorate.

As HipHopDX notes, the Game Day collection boasts 17 different pieces such as hoodies, sweatpants, jerseys, beanies, boxers, and even a bandana.

The Barbadian is set to take to the stage on February 12 at Glendale, Arizona’s State Farm Stadium. This marks her first major performance since the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards when she took home the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard.

Are you excited to see what Rihanna has in store for us next month? Sound off in the comments, and check back later for more pop culture news updates.

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