19 throwback singles we can’t believe are already turning 10 in 2019

“Rude Boy” – Rihanna

We have been in a serious Rihanna draught lately. Back in the day, she spoiled us with a new album basically every year from 2005 until Unapologetic in 2012. Now it’s been two years since her last studio album, Anti, and we’re seriously craving new music from RiRi! So what better time to take a look back at one of her hits that’s turning the big double digits?

Back in 2009, Rihanna released her fourth studio album, Rated R, which had a darker, more mature sound with more rock and electronic influences blended in with her usual pop-R&B and dancehall vibe. Though it was released as a single in early 2010, “Rude Boy” was easily a stand-out single from the album, so we’ll still include it on our list. The song hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the singer’s sixth #1 single.

Despite Rated R having a darker mood, “Rude Boy” was bubbly, uptempo and incorporated dancehall and R&B elements to make one major bop. It was sexy and, even though it was released in the dead of winter, it still felt like summer — and still does. The accompanying video incorporated more graphic elements in an almost pop art style, and played up the song’s Caribbean themes, and Rihanna sizzled more than ever.

While we love us some classic Rih, what would be even better is new music. Rihanna, take a break from your Fenty Beauty empire and give us something!