Rihanna: A Thread All About Vocals

This thread will contain performances, rehearsals, studio time, and vocal coach analyses

Let’s start off with the iconic “Diamonds” note. This note is a vocal fry that is accompanied by a vocal break. A vocal break is done purposely, a vocal crack is not. Rihanna executes this with proper technique, and with intention. She does it perfectly.

This is a form of compression singing. This is usually a technique that rockstars do. If done incorrectly it could basically destroy your vocal chords. If done correctly, you can sing vocal frys as much as you want, as does Rihanna. Here’s an explanation

Another stellar performance is Rihanna’s acoustic version of “We Found Love”. There isn’t any choreo weighing her voice down. Here you can hear beautiful runs, head voice, transitions, etc. One of her best performances.

As Rihanna got older her voice changed. It became a bit darker. Some of it was due to smoking. However, with good technique, you can smoke (not in excess) and maintain the voice. Rihanna’s voice has actually become exponentially stronger than it used to be over the years.

Here’s a great example of Rihanna’s voice becoming stronger through the years. The first is from 2008, the second is from 2012. 4 years of hard work.

Here’s another example of vocal evolution. Stronger voice, better tone, better projection, etc.

Here’s another video of effortless runs, transitions, and belts. Look at how relaxed she is. All she needs is a guitar and a mic honestly. Her voice shines best in acoustic settings.

Rihanna works with all the sounds of her voice. She plays with vowel placement (some of this is due to her accent), and frequently changes tone, color, etc. She naturally does this, which is why her voice is so distinct. You can hear a lot of this in “Take A Bow”

Here’s more of an in depth explanation of what Rihanna does with her voice from vocal coach @samjohnson !

Just a little cute video from a vocalist. Here’s Toni Braxton’s thoughts on Rihanna @tonibraxton

One of my personal favorites: Rihanna singing a freestyle at Miguel’s party... ugh I love her voice, especially when she uses that tone.

Rihanna singing U With Me with a cute ol run

“Love The Way You Lie Part II” at Hackney festival. Rihanna’s voice here is amazing. Her transitions are so polished. The belting was also great. The crescendos were also on point chile.

Rihanna with her vocal coach at the time RaAb Stevenson @therealraab

Rihanna performing “California King Bed”. This song brings out some of her best vocal moments.

Rihanna recording “Watch N Learn” , studio vs acapella. With @KukHarrell

Here’s a young Rihanna, singing “There’s a Thug In My Life” acapella

Here’s Rihanna mic feed of her singing “Stay”. The mic is ON as Prince would say.

Speaking of Prince, here’s a vid of him and his band covering “Rude Boy”. He always liked Rihanna. Imagine having PRINCE cover your song

FourFivePrayers showcases the new voca prime she’s in. Clear runs, projection, power, and confidence.