[MarkWaldorf]

Rihanna is one of the few artists lately who has shown true progression as an artist. Most (like Gaga) release new material similar to their previous, which proves they can't take risks because their known for one particular style. What I love about Rihanna is with each album she evolves. Rated R could have easily been a GGGB knock-off, but instead she comes back dark and releases a ballad as a first single (each of her previous first singles have been club bangers). This is what builds iconic status as an artist, when you continually shock people with what you're offering and tbh, I ever expected this route from Rihanna but I love it. She's truly upped her game and is taking names.