Vocalist isn't the right word. A vocalist is a master of all things vocal. Mariah Carey is a vocalist. Rihanna is not a great vocalist, sheis however a great singer. She gives all she has, however lacking it may be. Her vocal style and tone are what set her apart from other beysic bitches. If she sounded like another Ashanti/BeYAWNce/Amerie no one would give two shits.