In reply to WaitUrTurn88.

Rihanna performed at the pre-show of the VMA's because she had a song that was hot that summer. It didn't go to #1 but Pon De Replay was everywhere. On the radio, on tv shows, movies, 106 and park, BET, MTV.
Of course with some promo but we in the US were more open to Rihanna than we are to Rita. Because Pon De Replay was a hot jam and everybody's summer anthem.