Popular news outlet Digital Spy is reporting that Rihanna has been given strict guidelines regarding her upcoming New Year’s Eve performance in Abu Dhabi later this week. The model, who is being paid a substantial $500, 000 to perform at Emirates Palace to ring in the new year, has been warned to wear conservative ensembles to avoid offending the Islamic community. Earlier this year, Beyonce canceled the Malaysian leg of her ‘I Am…Yours’ tour as a ramification of such restrictions.
If this is true, then it is quite interesting indeed. The central part of Rihanna’s success throughout her career has been her sex appeal and fashion sense. Certainly, the number of people who actually appreciate her material for her ‘vocal ability’ represents a staggering minority. In fact, she herself must be aware of this as she is said to be quite upset by this news and “is tearing her hair out over what to do…a huge part of her show is her sexy stage gear.” It looks like Rihanna will not be able to hide behind studded bras and leather panties for this performance. Rather the audience will be ‘treated’ to her voice in all its glory. Let us pray for the people of Abu Dhabi.