Bajan pop star Rihanna set Twitter ablaze by engaging with a controversial post involving herself and fellow superstar, Beyoncé. What should have been harmless praise quickly sent fans spiralling into a full-blown clash over who’s truly the most influential.
The drama began when a popular podcaster claimed Rihanna’s global reach, cultural influence, fashion domination and business success put her above both Beyonce and Taylor Swift. The clip spread fast across Instagram and Twitter.
Rihanna’s quiet endorsement came in the form of a single like. That is all it took for the moment to turn radioactive. Fans took Rihanna’s like as her co signing the idea that she outranks two of the most powerful entertainers in the world.
Within minutes, the internet caught fire.
Both fan bases flooded timelines with old paparazzi shots, unflattering angles, dated performance clips and charts comparing sales and streaming numbers. Some accused Rihanna of disrespect, others called her petty, and a few said she has no right to “talk music” until she releases a new album.
Fans brought up her long break from music, her nine year absence from touring and even her Super Bowl performance, trying to turn every moment into a dig. The tone online has been brutal.
A source close to Rihanna’s fan base came out in full support of their their idol. The source reminded everyone that Rihanna did not say a single word. She did not post anything. She did not insult anyone. She simply liked a video. The source who does not want to be named maintains that the reaction proves Rihanna’s influence, because she can shake the entire industry without opening her mouth.
Many pointed out that Rihanna’s billionaire status, global fashion impact and chart history speak for themselves. Others believe the backlash is rooted in jealousy, because Rihanna operates in her own lane. Music, fashion, beauty. She dominates every industry she touches.
Her fans also highlighted one of Rihanna’s signature traits. She truly does not care what people think. The drama may be trending, but Rihanna herself is most likely somewhere laughing.