5 Surprising Facts About Rihanna’s “Anti”

Released on January 28, 2016,Rihanna’s genre-defying Anti flipped expectations of what pop music could be and marked a pivotal moment in her career. With its bold artistic risks, introspective themes, and masterful production, Anti has plenty of lesser-known details that make this album extraordinary. Here are five facts about Anti that you might not know.

• The Tame Impala Connection:
  Rihanna’s “Same Ol’ Mistakes” is a faithful reimagining of Tame Impala’s “New Person, Same Old Mistakes” from their Currents album. Instead of transforming the track, Rihanna kept its dreamy psychedelic essence intact, choosing to enhance rather than alter. This decision shows her respect for the original while adding her unmistakable vocal signature. Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker openly praised her take, calling it a perfect fit for her voice and artistic style.
• Whiskey and Vulnerability:
  The ballad “Higher” was born out of a late-night studio session fueled by whiskey. Rihanna herself referred to the track as “a drunk voicemail,” and the rawness of her delivery is palpable. Recorded in the early hours of the morning, the song captures a kind of emotional honesty that feels both unpolished and deeply human. It’s a standout moment of intimacy on an album filled with experimental production.
• A Record-Breaking Hit:
  “Work,” the lead single from Anti, became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. With its hypnotic dancehall rhythm and minimalist production, the track dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks. It helped Rihanna achieve her 14th number-one hit, surpassing Michael Jackson in the process. The song’s success reaffirmed Rihanna’s ability to effortlessly blend Caribbean influences with global pop appeal.
• A Braille-Infused Cover:
  The Anti album cover, designed by Roy Nachum, is as layered as the music it represents. Featuring a childhood photo of Rihanna with a crown covering her eyes, the artwork also includes a poem in Braille. The inclusion of Braille reflects themes of perception and the idea of being misunderstood, a recurring motif in both the album’s lyrics and Rihanna’s career. It’s a visual statement that invites deeper interpretation.
• Genre-Defying Eclecticism:
  One of Anti’s greatest strengths is its refusal to be boxed into a single genre. The album effortlessly weaves together elements of dancehall, doo-wop, trap, and psychedelic soul. Tracks like “Love on the Brain” nod to 1950s balladry, while songs like “Needed Me” lean into moody, contemporary trap. This diversity not only showcases Rihanna’s vocal range but also her willingness to challenge mainstream expectations.