Welcome to the latest TGJ Roundtable!
Over the years, That Grape Juice has established a distinguished voice that – whether loved or loathed – sparks discussion, debate, and on occasion drama!
Though comprised of seasoned writers who share a similar outlook on Urban Pop culture, the idiosyncrasies of the TGJ team members often lend for quite heated debates “behind the scenes” about the hottest topics.
Now, we give you a front row seat to the show. In a format similar to ‘The View’ or ‘The Real’, TGJ editors – Sam, David, Rashad, and Joe – get real in a very candid way.
Today’s roundtable topic asks each anchor…
What Is On Your 2017 Wish List?!
Sam
A Destiny’s Child Reunion
Sure I’ve harped on about this forever, but with 2017 marking 20 years since the ladies dropped their debut single, there’s no time better than the present for them to salute their legacy.
Beyond the anniversary element, their respective windows of availability are more aligned than ever. For, as at writing, none of the ladies are in album cycles nor has there been definitive word on projects on the horizon.
In prior times I would have willed a traditional comeback – namely a single, album, and tour. And, in a way, I still am. However, there’s no need for all of that. Because, if the last three years of Beyonce’s narrative have taught anything, it’s a) the art + effectiveness of surprise and b) touring over everything. Therefore, all DC would need to do is draw on the ‘Formation’ mode of promo. Which simply means using an unannounced visual as a vehicle to plug the real money maker (and ultimate focus) – touring.
Going this route would eliminate the commercial pressure of pushing new music and minimise the risk attached to blemishing their flaw-free ‘Destiny Fulfilled’ era. It’ll also free-up the ladies to resume doing their own thing once wrapping their touring commitments.
At a granular level, there are benefits for their solo hustles too. It’d create additional distance between Bey’s ‘Lemonade’ and her next project (necessary, as she’s not an “album a year” kind of gal). As for Kelly Rowland, it could be useful in giving her a boost ahead of this ever-coming new LP, and also gift Michelle Williams additional momentum heading into her next release.
On paper, it’s a triple-win waiting to happen. Hopefully it comes to fruition!
The Emergence Of Music’s Next Mega-Star
For most millennials, the likes of Madonna, Michael Jackson, Whitney, and Mariah are legends undeniable. Following their reigns, we’ve seen the emergence of modern day superstars (ala Adele and Beyonce) who’ll be joining that elite list oh so soon.
However, for several years now there’s been an alarming pattern. An array of would be/should be legends that are “close but no cigar.”
Worse still, there are artists being gassed up on the merit of hit singles who don’t possess the pedigree to create any kind of notable or lasting impact.
Then there of course are the clones. Like, who could forget “that” era when every R&B belle rocked a blonde wig and tried to dance?
All of this (likely in tandem with social media) has seen few viable megastars emerge.
In 2017, I’m angling for an embrace of more left-field talent. Remember how captivating Lady Gaga’s point of difference was when she blazed onto the scene? Something as unique as that.
Because one consistent trait in every artist that is hailed as iconic is how unlike anyone else they are.
The history and the record books have shown that the masses gravitate towards such acts in a big way. Fingers crossed that more labels, managers, and teams remember this when trying to bake the next big thing.
The End Of The Streaming War – As We Know It
From a business standpoint, competition never ends. So, I’m not advocating nor expecting the various services available to hold hands and sing ‘Kumbaya.’
However, the aggressive, platform exclusive bloodbath that defined 2016’s streaming climate marred so many major releases.
TIDAL is perhaps the biggest offender. Indeed, in trying to assert its viability in the field, we saw ill-advised exclusives housed on a platform that just doesn’t have the numbers, reach, or range. There’s countless examples to pull from such as Rihanna’s ‘ANTI’ debacle, Kanye’s ‘Life Of Pablo,’ and even Beyonce’s ‘Lemonade.’ Some may be scratching their heads re Bey, but there’s no denying that she could have easily pulled higher first week numbers had the TIDAL debut not been a factor. In launching on a service that many were already all sorts of “over,” she effectively sacrificed a portion of would be sales. It didn’t dent her success narrative, but is noteworthy nonetheless.
Elsewhere, Frank Ocean’s Apple Music exclusive proved a total waste of time and ironically TKO’d what was apparently a well-structured deal that Lady Gaga had with the platform for ‘Joanne.’ Despite the latter release proving relatively successful, one can only wonder how an Apple-heavy push would have benefitted the LP.
Put simply, for yours truly the battle for streaming supremacy has seen fans lose more than they win. Especially in regards to exclusives.
For 2017, I’d much prefer to see the Spotify’s, TIDAL’s, and co try to one up each other with cool features. Original video content, such as TV shows and movies, have begun to land on some services. More of this, please and thanks.
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David
The Rebirth of the Music Chart Show
As we all know, very few artists have been able to permeate pop culture with truly impactful releases. One reason why? The absence of established platforms which offer acts the opportunity to sell their sounds and stories with interviews and performances.
Whats more, with their live transmission, the likes of 106 & Park, TRL, and UK titles such as Top of the Pops provided the same brand of unpredictable we’ve come to expect from award shows. Pop culture moments that whether good, bad, or scandalous had everyone talking.
This is something the industry is thirsty for.
Hopefully, a 2017 take on such shows is on the horizon.
The Arrival Of More Multi-Hyphenate Stars
As a 90s kid, most of my childhood was spent consuming content by creatives whose impact reached across the fields of music, fashion, fitness and film.
With the industry struggling to produce acts with the power to rake in the cash from music alone, I hope it finds way to build multi-hyphenate stars out of artistically inclined social media stars.
One needn’t look any further than the narratives of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Dolph Lundgren and Grace Jones to understand what the buying public would gain from a new generation of “do-it-all entertainers.”
Rihanna’s Commercial “Rebirth”
‘ANTI’, through little fault of her own, wasn’t the success Rihanna had hoped it would be. In 2017, it’d be great to see the vocalist release an album just as artistic but with a campaign that fares much better than her last. With talk of new LPs from Katy Perry, Beyonce and Nicki Minaj on the way, the threat of competition for the Bajan belle is real but I hope it motivates her to deliver what her Navy anticipate will be the best album of her career.
Art Which Reflects Time
It’s safe to say that we are living through trying social times. As the world continues to celebrate human and soulful art released by the likes of Solange and Chance the Rapper, I’m crossing my fingers that 2017 brings with it more bodies of work which offer both hits and compelling stories. Because it is possible
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Rashad
Let the record show I am in complete support of surprise releases.
When one (especially bigger artists) give fans little indication of the sonic direction the new effort is headed, the opportunity for them decide if they’ll buy it solely based on its first single is taken away from them.
This, in many cases, is a good thing as we’ve seen many-a-first single ruin what were otherwise solid projects (see: everybody).
But, my only gripe with most of them is that they are not accompanied by full on promotional runs. Gone are the days where the likes of Beyonce, Drake, Rihanna, and co. did the talk show, early morning show, and late night talk circuits. Gone are the days of “20/20” specials and all of the means those artists we 80s babies grew up with pulled. Yes, I know times have changed, but when I look at all the stops Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga pulled for their respective last efforts, I can’t help but think how much more successful they would’ve been had they dropped surprise releases. Conversely, I feel – even with the heights of success ‘Lemonade’ and ‘Beyonce: the Album’ achieved – they would’ve been that much more successful had she at least hit a talk show, ‘SNL’, or something.
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Joe
It’s been 3 years and counting since I’ve been waiting for Tinashe to “explode.” After a remarkable first album – which was a critics favorite – and a plethora of positively sickening videos, it felt like the time was near… then ‘Player’ happened. And then ‘Superlove.’ [See: non-starters.]
As I pointed out on last week’s From The Vault, I’d love to see what an “Urban” boyband would look and sound like in 2017.
Taking a gander at groups like One Direction and Five Seconds Of Summer in the Pop field and seeing how Chris Brown and Drake are running the Urban arena, it’s clear the era of matching outfits and sappy love songs are long gone.
For a few years now, major artists have almost uniformly embraced this “album needs to be perceived as a body of work” mantra. A reality that has seen many top talent effectively give up on traditional album promo (i.e. performing singles to plug the parent LP). So common is this practice that acts are even forgoing the once-mandatory “performing on every show during album release week” motive.
Though this agenda has worked wonders for artists like Beyonce and Frank Ocean (who’s mystique is enough to create excitement and anticipation at a time of a release), it is not the case for everyone. Thus acts such as Usher, Alicia Keys and to a degree Rihanna took L’s in 2016 as far as album sales were concerned.
I get the whole “anti” establishment “I don’t need to please radio” motive a lot of names were going for, but the truth is the masses can’t hear you if they don’t see you.
Nowadays the internet is the biggest vehicle to plug music. Yet, it’s odd to note that a lot of the big artists shunning traditional promo have yet to truly harness the full power of the internet beyond streaming exclusives. Where are with edgy promotional tactics? The all-out utilization of digital titans and social media sites? There’s so much scope to do this that it’s odd that it’s yet to take place.
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Do you agree with our picks? Who was spot on? Let us know your thoughts on the latest TGJ Roundtable and your own 2017 wish list!
I’m with Rashad (and surprisingly Sam).
These ppl have completely biased perspectives. Rihanna had one of the best albums of the year and couldn’t stay out of the top ten if she tried. I think the editors for this messy site are trying to rewrite history to some extent. They also seem to cater to all things Beyonce. The first wish out of Sam’s messy fingers was, “A Destiny’s child reunion” lol gtfoh
I also want far less Drake music. He makes great hits, but his music has been overwhelming for the past three years. He needs a break. We need a break from him.
All I want is the On The Run Tour and Formation Tour DVD… and yea I would like more albums to have an impact on the industry instead of singles… ??
I know it’s probably not going to happen, but I am hoping 2017 is the year that Ms Lauryn Hill will grace us with a masterpiece again….one can dream.
Other than that, I am excited to see what Kehlani is going to bring to the table with her debut
I’m with you. I was under the impression that she signed a new deal a few years back but nothing unfortunately.
I’ll only be happy if the Destiny’s child reunion includes all of the members (including Farrah because her vocals are on Independent women) like the ending of Dreamgirls otherwise i’ll be less excited because i only liked the writings on the wall and Destiny’s Fulfilled as albums and a few singles in-between.
I’m hoping also for Christina, Brandy, Teedra Moses, This r&b Alexandra Burke a re vocaled and sounding Leona Lewis as well as some Hannah Barrett and Tevin Campbell and Any quality Amy Winehouse (although i know thats not going to happen?
I would like a rebirth of R&B like the 90’s as well as all the artistry that goes with it. an Teena Marie esq Jessie Album and a real R&B Little Mix album with quality songs and their harmonies or a new band that can deliver it.
I would also like less Adele.
I’d like a real revival of some of the 90’s artists that disappeared from view
Sam: yes @ the reunion, yes @ the streaming war needing to stop. the next star will come when it comes…
David: YESSSSS I need the chart shows back! art which reflects zeitgeist never left tho… but yeah props to Solange and Chance indeed. but y’all need to quit trying to push this “Anti is a flop” angle. I highly doubt Nicki or Kunty next projects will be as played and streamed as Anti.
Rashad: I’m done waiting on Xtina, especially after Lotus. I’d rather be surprised when the album comes in 2030 or so. as far as MJB goes, I wish you would’ve addressed how ageism in addition to sexism and racial labelling is playing a part on holding her back… isn’t it crazy how Thick Of It blew up on Adult R&B stations yet it’s not even on Urban Top 40?
Joe: I’m here for all of it!
I agree and I’m sick of them saying “Anti” was a flop. She had a #1 single, 2 top 10, and a top 20 this year. After selling one copies to Samsung, she still went gold and will continue to sell, especially with the grammy’s comimg. She would have sold over one million if one million wasn’t given away. Music to me is dead, just my opinion. I remember the days when I used to rush home to see 106 and park! Now even if they do bring it back, it’s no good without good musi, creative videos and competition. I would like to see Usher, Alicia Keys, Mary, Mariah, Ashanti, Jay Z, Christina, Lil Kim, Ja Rule, Nelly and some other artists from the early to mid 2000’s make a comeback. The artist from the couple years can take a break. Please remember, there is room for everyone!!!
Stop trying to make Christina Aguilera happen. Girl is over.
Rihanna’s “commercial rebirth”? What “commercial rebirth” are we speaking on exactly? That her next album ‘may’ surpass 1M+ units in ‘pure sales’ in the USA?
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GET OVER IT.
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Sales are dead! In spite of the albums botched release, “ANTI” still turned out to be the biggest female era of 2016 (in terms of success across all metrics; chart peaks, radio, sales, streaming etc.). It’s currently at 2M+ SPS in the USA and 600K+ pure sales alongside 1.5M+ pure sales WW and 3.3M+ SPS WW. Her album is literally one of three to surpass sales of 500K+ units in 2016. The album was a GIGANTIC streaming success and as we are in the streaming era, that is highly commendable hence why she’s noted as the biggest female streaming artist and has been for three years in a row.
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‘LEMONADE’ sold less than ‘BEYONCE’ did in a year and had even less/worst single/radio success however that didn’t stop it form being the best-selling release from a female in 2016 and the most critically acclaimed album. That alone should say it all – are we going to label it a ‘commercial slump’ because it didn’t outsell her last album?
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Anyhow, I agree with Rashad and Joe. The other two continue to embarassment themselves by clinging onto the past.
Also, please add that ANTI will be back in the top 20 of the Billboard 200 a complete year after its release. Furthermore, S*x With Me has reached a new peak a year later and Love On the Brain has just reached a new iTunes peak of #18. Meanwhile, this was all accomplished with a botched campaign and giving away 1.4million copies away for free. Also, who could forget breaking Michael Jackson’s record and having 5 Top 20 hits in one year alone. Damn wouldn’t it be nice if all artists could #FlopLikeRih
THANK YOU!
I agree, I really do. IMO I feel Anti was commercially successful. Streaming is the largest music consumption platform in the world. So ask yourself how is a album the most streamed by a female, with multiple platinum singles and a #1 single not a commercial success? Rihanna don’t do massive sales, we get it, she never has but all you stuck on the old times will be left behind. I cant tell you the last time I purchase a album. Rihanna is my fav artist and didn’t even purchase her album.If you cant move with the times and flourish on multiple platforms you are in trouble.
I want more variety. That’s all I ask for. Beyoncé, Rihanna are great- we love them. But there needs to be more mainstream options like there were in the past. .the whole “Stan war” idiocricy has made it hard for feeble minds to support someone who “isn’t their fav” which is why I think it’s so much harder for artists to succeed- which is stupid. I just hope this year brings some real good music. 2016 really was one of the worst years in music history. I can’t think of one classic birthed in that time frame
I want these “stan wars” to go away and blogs i.e. that TGJ to remain professional and unbiased. I would comment and read the articles more if they would remain positive. Whenever I see a Mariah or Rihanna, Beyonce post, majority of the time I stroll right past it, 90% of the time it’s a stan war going on and Sam is bashing them. A lot of the time’s some post have nothing to do with either of them, but somehow theiron names are brought up. Let’s be more positive and supportive in 2017. There’s nothing wrong with saying I don’t like the song. People on this blog throw the word “FLOP” around too loosely. Alicia Keys had some good songs, but it didn’t sell well. “Blended Family” and “Common” were 2 of my favorite songs last year. It is really hard for these to come up with a hit song, especially with today’s audience.
@COUGH COUGH.
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I agree – I honestly do.
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In actuality, the ‘Navy’ and the ‘Hive’ will never allow both Rihanna and Beyonce’ to be individual successes in their own right (which they certainly are) as they’re constantly arguing/debating about which of the two is bigger, better and the most successful? Truthfully speaking, this is very much the reason why their can only be one or two Black music stars (especially amongst females) at once every era – the industry itself has created a indirect (or arguably direct) divide between the black artists they’re willing to promote and market to the GP and overall mainstream arena but it is Black people themselves who don’t help the situation as many still have the mentality of their only being “one star at a time” also and that’s what they focused on.
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Beyonce is the biggest African-American music star of the new millennium thus far, whereas Rihanna is the biggest Black star to come from the diaspora. To both sides, only one can truly survive.
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Anyhow, I do hope that another Black music star arises sometime soon and not just with Black women but Black men also. Why isn’t the industry promoting genuine Black “male” singers and musicians? Why are they threatened by them? “All of Me” was/is the biggest song by a Black male singer (that isn’t a rapper) in more than a decade and that is very unfortunate. You will never see Black men singing sentimental love ballads topping the charts again anytime soon.
It’s really annoying, stupid and it goes to show you just how dumb, delusioned and closed minded a large amount of the listening public is. At one point you had: Mariah, Whitney, Janet, Toni, Missy, Lil Kim, Brandy, Monica, Aaliyah, Foxy Brown, Lauryn and a plethora of other black female artists on top of the charts, slaying, selling millions. I guess back then people were much smarter and just bought what they loved because it was good. It’s sad, really cause TBH I’m really tired of Ri and Bey as much as I enjoy them I’m tired of them at the same time. I need options
Exactly.
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This is why an artist as “talented” as Lady Gaga is failing to duplicate her commercial success, today, in the streaming era as she simply isn’t successful across streaming platforms.
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In this industry you have to know how to adapt to what is popular to stay relevant. If you aren’t a “mainstream” based artist then it’s fine not to do so. If you are, well…
Really nice write. My friends and I share very similar views to much of what you guys wrote. Firstly, I couldn’t agree more that we really need other BIG superstars. As much as I love Rihanna, Beyoncé, Ye, and Drake…I really feel like we need new fresh talent. There is room for it and there are certainly talent out there.
Secondly, I respect David’s view on Rihanna Anti album. I agree that I would love to see her continue the artistic route Anti took us but with more commercial success. Don’t get me wrong, I am extremely proud of the anti era and how Rihanna totally turned it around but I still feel she is in her prime and I want more music, NOW!
Thirdly, Dc3. I am on the fence with this. apart of me want them there to be a reunion. This group holds such a big place in my heart and memories and a part of me don’t want that to be ruin. I feel like if they do reunite, the pressure to perform will be there regardless. And I just don’t want to see them struggle. But then again anything involving beyonce will be a success regardless. So who knows.
Last thought, I don’t see music video shows like TRL and 106 and park ever coming back. No one watches tv and people don’t consume music videos the same anymore. No one wants to wait 1hr for there fav video the play like we use to. Its all about immediate consumption today. You want to go straight to the product.
I kinda agree with the DC part. Beyoncé now is more to making indie music compare to DC with their fun catchy pop songs. Furthermore, Beyoncé refuse to do interviews and promote anymore. This is not weird for Bey, but it really is for DC. And Bey in DC was very playful and behave like a normal girl but now she is more mysterious and quiet and more like A Queen.
not interested in a DC reunion unless its the 3 plus the original two. kelly and michelle alone aren’t buzzworthy enough
the era of the superstar is over ..beyonce is the last one…however, i would like to see tinashe have some hit songs and albums
i’d like to see real r and b singing come back…not just the sing/talk style over trap beats.
i’d like to see chris brown get his shiat together and come back with a strong work ethic and great songs and dancing
Agreed. I forgot to put that in my comment. I want a great R&B album. Bring back REAL r&b, not this moody, trap infused, foolishness. Trey Songz should be releasing soon, so I’ll give that a chance, but chile, power to you for still thinking about him, but as far as I can see, it looks like Chris is done.
How is beyonce the last superstar when we still have Riri. Keep dreaming
I like rihanna but the industry doesnt revere her in the same way they did the icons of the 80s/90’s. the biggest era of superstars.
If she isn’t then beyonce is not either.
I want Jay Z to give me another album for the billionth time. I want Drake and Taylor Swift to kick rocks. I used to have hopes for Tinashe, but she has yet to define who she is and what lane she occupies in the industry. We could use some variation, I agree, but Tinashe simply reminds me of a bunch of other artists, which is not a good thing. She needs to have her own identity that’s distinct and she just, doesn’t. Also, lately she’s been giving me so many Fka Twigs teaazzz and I’m not here for it. Speaking of Twigs, imma need her to release some new music. Hm, What else…
Destiny’s Child reunion is NOT EVER going to happen. Michelle holds them back. Beyonce is all about being perfect, getting better and better and she won’t with Michelle tripping and stumbling all over the place. And they can’t do a reunion without her so they NEVER WILL!
Yeah Michelle definitely isn’t the problem. She definitely add a unique texture to the the group. She absolutely slayed her solo performance during the destiny fulfilled tour. They just aren’t doing a tour because they’re past that. Most groups don’t go solo, reunite, go solo, reunite,’go solo reunite…. it just doesn’t happen that way
michelle was always my fav!
I couldn’t imagine a DC’s album with BEYONCÉ’ s and Lemonade’s types of songs.
That’s b*******. Michelle is great and I wish people would stop picking on her. I agree with Cough Cough.
out of the three, Michelle is not the one with nearly two decades of experience in the bizz and still giving shaky vocals and flat notes live… *sips tea* I’m still all for the reunion but if K&M are not performing the harmonies to B’s lead live then I’d be PISSED! I wanna say I wouldn’t give them my koins but I know I’d be lying cause I would but I wanna get the full experience.
X❤️T?I❤️N?A
Well, I wish Rih and Bey could release a Greatest Hits album, hopefully include some unreleased tracks. Britney, Xtina and P!nk have released theirs. When will both of you? And also, I wish Xtina can make a comeback this year. Last but not least, please visit Asia, Beyoncé!
Social media has ruined the chances of having a new mega star. Anyone or anything can go viral these days, and anyone with a mediocre voice or trap beat can get a hit single. Celebrities are way too accessible now. It works for some, but fails for most.
I’d love to see a DC reunion this year!! I don’t need a whole album or new music, but a tour with all five girls would be amazing! I think they’re cooking something up… ?
@PAT.
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What? ???.
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Rihanna is the “Best Selling Digital Artist of All-Time” and is the “Most Certified Artist of the New Millenium” in the Unites States. She has sold 110M+ singles in the Unites States alone alone along with 100M+ singles WW as well as almost 40M+ albums WW. Overall, she has sold over 200M+ records and, in terms of certified units, puts her second place (behind Madonna) as the “Best Selling Female Artist of All-Time”. If we are to include SPS/TEA then she is at 260M+ records sold WW.
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No other artist since 2000 has sold more cumulative records than Rihanna. Furthermore, she is arguably the second biggest female hit maker of all time behind Madonna and, by the end of the decade, will be the only artist who debuted in the last 25 years (after Mariah Carey) to be in the Top 10 of the biggest Hot 100 artists of all time.
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She’s one of the most iconic pop stars of our generation and is highly influential across the industry – she literally has several clones trailing behind her who are building their careers on her sound and style. She also has a bar age of awards to her name, 8 GRAMMY AWARDS and is the only female artist behind Beyonce to have the most GRAMMY nominations for a female act this millenia.
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And that’s the surface of it. SHE IS A SUPERSTAR!!!!!!!
It seems like it’s too soon to tell. When we talk about superstardom, in the way that Pat described, we aren’t particularly referring to records. People don’t remember chart positions, they remember moments, events, and experiences. I made this point on the tour post. Rihanna is young and trendy and the industry has this really nasty habit of disposing of popstars when they are no longer either of the two. Pat’s point of reverence for the stars is extremely valid. Rihanna has no where near the amount of regard and renown that those whom we consider “superstars” have. The clear test of her superstardom will be evident when her name and talent can transcend her popularity. In other words, how long will people remember Rihanna after she’s no longer young and trendy?
Why on earth are people still regarding Rihanna as “young and trendy” at 28 year’s old when she had her first hit at the age of 17?
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As of June 2017, Rihanna will have been in the music industry for 12 years. Her debut single in the summer of 2005 charted at #2 behind “We Belong Together. In February 2016, Rihanna score her 14th number one single.
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Her position in the music arena has been cemented.
young and trendy, love how you talk about a career of years as if its been 15 minutes, and you talk about moments like rihanna doesn’t create ones simply by putting on a dress or that her live performances dont cause a stir!
and lets be real as an artist you are truly remembered for one thing and one thing only, the music and countless hits and records broken her name will be popping up long after she is gone
She IS still young and trendy? She’s 28. I’m not talking about time. I’m talking about age. To clarify, how well will you sell at 35 like Britney or Beyonce? How relevant will you be at 47 like Jlo? How many people will be willing to pay to see you at 137 like Madonna? How many years of hiatus can you take off before you’re forgotten? How well will you compete with a popstar years your junior decades into your career? It’s possible that, as I stated below, that the stars of the past should be referred to as something else as resolution, but as far as what I HAVE brought up, you are insisting that it isn’t true when Rihanna’s track record has proven none of the sort. How will she accomplish any of the questions I have posed above when she doesn’t dominate the actual peers she has now? When she took a three year hiatus and released music to a lukewarm reception? When she arguably releases the most music out of ALL of her counterparts but doesn’t have a significant amount of material acquisitions in terms of wealth, awards, and yes, records to fit the proportion? I understand all of the records that you have highlighted, but they’ve done nothing to refute any of the claims I’ve made. That being said, when it comes to her being on par with the stars of the 80s and 90s, my claim remains the same. It’s too soon to tell.
i laugh everytime tries to bring up that “respect” thing to try and discredit her achievements, like is in the top 4 of the biggest female artists in the industry, no its adele, bey, rih and taylor and maybe katy right now. how is she not respected? what proof when every producer and lyricist wants to work with her, her albums loved by critics.
lets not even mention the records broken and records sold, awards won and achievements made…
then we have her owning the fashion industry,
having movie/tv directors seek her out for movie roles…
the countless barriers broken.
Yeah, you didn’t read what I said and you clearly did not grasp the content of the last two sentences in my argument. There is a distinction between popstars of the moment and those that have achieved virtual immortal fame and recognition. The latter was being examined and by that logic, Taylor and Adele don’t meet the criteria either. I have no doubt that Adele will not be here in 10 years. I’m not referring to the success that every popstar accomplish in their heyday because that’s nothing but faddish. So perhaps we should refer to the superstars of the 80s and 90s as a different term because it is undebatable that they don’t belong in the same categories as your contemporary stars, like Rihanna and Taylor. Also, I don’t think I used the word, “respect”. If you don’t know what regard and renown means, you should look them up. Hint* It doesn’t have to do with respect…
renown
rɪˈnaʊn/Submit
noun
the condition of being known or talked about by many people; fame.
mmmh…scratching head! 12 years in the industry never once falling off, after 4 years of a break she came back with what many are calling her best album to date, first person of color to be the face of dior(barrier), first person of color to perform at the cma(barrier), first woman to win shoe of the year(barrier)…
3 icon awards at age 28!
second highest selling female artist ever!
highest selling female of color ever!
do you even know what you are talking about, that is just the ice-tip of her impact on the entertainment industry so far!
the industry is at her feet! and hit after hit she cements her legacy. her songs climbing up charts and radio with little to no push from her side, that the amount of power she wields.
she is the sole reason puma is doing fashion week!
her diamond ball had the biggest names show up to support her foundation simply based of the high regards they hold her in
The Rihanna obsession is just sad at this point. The album was called Anti for a reason, the same reason this very basic blog was dissing her previous albums for being too commercial. Now they want a return? It’s 2016 most certified album, about to be 3X platinum next week. The longest charting album and single of her career. I wouldn’t take advice from a blogger that site goes offline every other week,moving along.
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The days of heavy promo is long gone and dead. The money simply isn’t there unless you’re selling Adele or Taylor numbers. I know it’s annoying bringing them up, but those are the only two artists that sell enough units to justify millions on promo videos and so on. The surprise release is played out now but announced albums within a month is fine and working great for J Cole, Bruno and so on.
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I’m ready for the next wave of artist mainly R&B. We need some fresh air, leave the flops that been failing for over a decade in the past, they just don’t have it.
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Back to Rihanna, Love On The Brain will push Anti another season. S** With Me can push for urban radio. A re-release would be great with about 3 more singles from it. The album still a streaming force, it was the most streamed female album last week. I can even see Never Ending being the final single and that would leave 2018 a great year to drop a new album. But we all know Rihanna does what she wants. ?
Only think I’m looking forward to are these Rihleases bates, valerian, and oceans! Also I’m pretty sure Rih will be releasing soon. Hence the list of registered songs that surfaced not to long ago. There is a rumor of an Anti part 2. Maybe a Rihrelease with a b side tracklist. I really feel like this album can be promoted for the remainder of this year with a double package release.
This is Rihanna’s best album in my opinion and I hope she continues in this direction. In my opinion it’s one of her most successful albums. She has nominations everywhere and streams for days. She also pocketed a lot of money from this and whether people like it or not, she is still charting and has people talking.
Yep! See the hive we’re so focused on your rank. In thee end the bigger picture is that she still pocketed heavily from this era. Sponsored tour and album. Within promoting this album, she became the face of Dior, started several lucrative fashion lines, filmed, and still had playtime. She never stopped the momentum. She is booking some really great gigs. Solely on her just being her. Not some packaged deal. Her era wasn’t built off the premise of media propaganda. She didn’t need to use black lives matter to get people to feed into a evidently crappy single. That was swallowed by the charts. Still she rised. On the charts and billboard achievements. Yes I agree, her tour may have only collected 40 million. But that’s 40 million of her coins. Still well for an album that was sabotaged upon arrival. Hey sign me up! If I was paid to give an album away and tour I would have too. Despite the delivery of her album; here we are a year later with songs still charting with minimal to no promotion. Big ups’
She actually made more than 40mil from her tour. Many of the dates are not yet reported.
I agree with most of the write up. Definitely need new fresh faces in the industry. Tired of the same ol same ol. & there needs to be an revamped version of music shows. Not a music countdown because we can watch online, But a place where artists can go to promote & perform.
I would love to see a HUGE selling album other than Adele’s…it could be a new or seasoned artist…I’m sure Ed Sheeran will sell great, but I want to see HUGE, like 20 million…it would be fun to analyze as to why it’s connecting commercially in a streaming era…and yes, new artists that can actually stand beside the ones we all know and love…a true talent *Aretha voice*
I hate the way this site throw shades at Rihanna constantly and constantly putting her against Bey. Anti was an amazing album and ate beloved by critics and fans. Also, it’s one of the most successful album of the year. With Bey and all her hype, granted she did an amazing number with her tour but still can’t push albums to Adele’s or Taylor’s status SMH.
Why isn’t Rihanna for all the hype you’re PUSHING about her doing adele or t.s numbers??
Pop artist T.S has sold 37 million albums in 10 years 0 breaks in between her eras.
RnB artist Beyonce has sold 35 million albums in 13 years with 6 albums . With actual breaks between each era.
It took Taylor 5 album to push any kind of numbers outside of the U.S because up until that point Dangerously in love non US number had outsold all 4 T.S non US numbers combined.
Why is it you navy members always have to mention or compare Beyonce to stale pop artist afraid of doing anything different musically.
Stale? Lol! Doing anything differently! I hope your not considering bey as an artist firstly. And I hope your not considering her someone who pushes the envelope! We all know she is aa unoriginal as 5 gum. Stop dead in your tracks! Rihanna has more creativity in her pinky.
They’re WHITE with clean images that suburban soccor mom approved who buy their album for their middle school carpool drop-off. It’s that simple!
Why can’t you just Rihanna shine without trying to shade Beyoncé, I’m a Beyoncé stan but I won’t discredit Rih, you complain about people pitting them against each other yet you try to shade one for the other. You should grow up you know.
*let
Beyonce has never and will never be a threat to Rihanna, they make different music, they serve different audiences… While Beyonce serves the ghetto hoodrats,gay queens without jobs and all together classless women, Rihanna’s audience are mostly made up of rich white people, rich and middle class black and prominent gay men.
Beyonce will always sell because the world is never short of losers, and failures who live vicariously through her achievements.
And the ghetto hoodrats,gay queens without jobs and all together classless women where able to give Beyoncé the top grossing tour of 2016 alongsides the best selling female album of 2016. Go choke on that glass of hatred,slit your throat or jump off a cliff.
Jobless people always have an ample amount of time on their hands
I wouldn’t mind a full R&B Destiny’s Child album that would be iconic. They should even consider bringing the other girls back MAYBE. I loved DC’s first 2 albums the most but either way I’m here for it
They all have good ideas, I’m not necessarily interested in some of them but good ideas nonetheless.
Xtina better deliver!!
AM SO DONE WITH HER ..
She’s lazy af!!!
b!tchhhh,
you’re better than all these basic h***
you can do it. but you better come hard for your throne
promote promote promote… anyways. bye.
Xtina barely has a seat on the voice… she’s done and isn’t gonna happen again. I’m not saying she isn’t talented but no one is checking for her. She tried to “comeback” a few times already even with the exposure of the voice and still flopped and that was when the voice was popular.
Lol after y’all bash rihanna for being “generic pop” she changed it now you want her to go back? Y’all desperate af for shade. we get it y’all don’t like rihanna and is upset that a “non-singing” “vocally challenged” “generic pop star” is on the radio more than your fav, sells better clothing than your fav, has an actual personality etc. the list goes on and I see why you are upset
DC????????????
I’m on the fence with this DC reunion! This truly is the perfect time for it (with the 20th anniversary coming up), but I personally don’t want multiple joint ventures going on with Bey! In some ways new DC music makes me curious, but at the same time, I believe Beyonce (as an artist/performer) moved on beyond the group! They’ve all outgrown some things! If it’s the inevitable and Bey’s guaranteed to deliver an album forming some kind of union, it must be the DC reunion OR a Bey/Jay Z duet release! Not both! In 2018, I want Bey back to doing Bey! I just love Bey’s passion and willingness to outdo herself and after this break following ‘Lemonade’, I’d love to see where Bey goes artistically on her solo journey! It’s thrilling to see all the progression and risk involved with every new era!
The state of commercial R&B is sad! These worthy artists don’t get the push or the budget! They don’t have a platform! There’s politics and chart manipulation to contend with! Even charts that you’d expect to compliment each other don’t (ex: Adult R&B/R&B Hip Hop)! It’s too many obstacles (see: ageism)! The R&B/Hip Hop charts are actually flooded with mainstream Pop songs these days! It’s all hindering the success of true R&B! This is why we need Urban music television to comeback in a major way that’s relevant and entertaining!
As far the next superstar! … I just think we’ve seen so many talents that just came in the door at the wrong time! Tinashe, Tiffany Evans, Sevyn Streeter and Teyana Taylor really have their work cut out for them! I see the determination in a few hard-working artists, but it’s very difficult to be music’s next crossover superstar in 2017! If Ameriie, Chris Brown, Ciara, Nicole Scherzinger, Danity Kane, Jordin Sparks, Mario and TPain (who’ve all had a head start before today’s talent and the tragic 2010’s came along) didn’t quite hit the mark, it’s going to be an uphill struggle for artists in the game today! It’s not a winning game for the less established!
Cool
i wish for a toni braxton album with massive promo in 2017 i want her to have a massive comeback