In a move that’s set to send fans into a frenzy, Rihanna is reportedly gearing up for an explosive musical return – including a brand-new album – after almost 10 years of focusing on her growing family and building one of the most successful beauty and fashion empires in history.

Sources close to the superstar have revealed exclusively that the 37-year-old Barbadian beauty is deep in the studio, crafting what could be her ninth studio album, tentatively dubbed ‘R9’ by eager fans. The news comes hot on the heels of the 10th anniversary of her critically acclaimed 2016 masterpiece Anti, which has only grown in legend as one of the most influential albums of the modern era.

“Rihanna is raring to go and cannot wait to get back on the road,” an insider spilled to Daily Mail. “She had to cancel her shows planned at the London Stadium last summer because she was expecting her daughter. But the cancellation couldn’t have worked more in her favour. This month she will celebrate the tenth anniversary of Anti, which coincides with a decade since she last toured, so it feels massive to her and her team.”

And it’s not just live shows fans can look forward to – whispers suggest new music is very much in the works to accompany the tour.

From Barbados to Billionaire Status: Rihanna’s Incredible Journey

Born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in Saint Michael, Barbados, the singer burst onto the scene in 2005 with her debut single Pon de Replay and never looked back. Over the next decade, she delivered hit after hit – from Umbrella and We Found Love to Diamonds and Work – racking up more than 250 million records sold worldwide and nine Grammy Awards.

But after Anti dropped in January 2016, Rihanna made a bold pivot. Instead of rushing into another album cycle, she poured her energy into Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty – brands that revolutionized the industry with their inclusive sizing, shade ranges, and empowering messaging. Fenty Beauty alone is valued at billions, while Savage X Fenty has become a go-to for lingerie that celebrates all body types.

“Music was the thing that got the attention,” Rihanna once said at a Fenty event in Barbados. “But God had other plans for me and I was able to create in ways… that were very sincere and genuine or organic and authentic to the things that I love.”

Her 2023 Super Bowl halftime show – a jaw-dropping performance while pregnant with her second child – reminded the world of her unmatched stage presence.

Family First: Motherhood to Three Beautiful Children

Since 2022, Rihanna’s life has revolved around her family with partner A$AP Rocky. The couple welcomed son RZA in May 2022, followed by Riot in August 2023, and their daughter – affectionately nicknamed Rocki – in September 2025.

Rihanna has been candid about embracing motherhood. In a recent Instagram comment, she hinted at possibly wanting a fourth child, replying to a fan’s dilemma about career vs. pregnancy with: “Wait! So I’m not crazy then? Bet!”

Fans flooded the comments with support – and cheeky pleas for new music. “Girl the only thing you need to be popping out is that album PLZZZZZZ,” one wrote. Another added: “Need to be pregnant with an album sis.”

The family of five is often spotted out in Los Angeles, with Rihanna sharing rare glimpses of their life together.

The Business Mogul: Fenty’s Unstoppable Rise

While fans waited (im)patiently for new tunes, Rihanna built an empire. Fenty Beauty launched in 2017 with 40 foundation shades – a game-changer in an industry criticized for limited inclusivity. Savage X Fenty followed in 2018, blending lingerie with body positivity.

Both brands have made her one of the world’s youngest self-made billionaires, according to Forbes. “She’s been really focused on her makeup, clothing and lingerie lines,” sources said in recent reports.

Yet music has always been her first love. “I feel like I’ve finally cracked it, girl!” she teased in a 2025 interview about her upcoming project. “This kind of album… it’s not going to be commercial or radio digestible. It’s going to be where my artistry deserves to be right now.”

Insiders say she’s been in the studio on and off for years, experimenting with reggae, hip-hop, and everything in between.

The Comeback Tour: Stadiums, New Music and Massive Expectations

Plans for a 2026 tour reportedly began in August 2025, with UK stadium dates – including rescheduled London Stadium shows – high on the agenda. Sources say the tour will be “massive” and “sell-out” events, celebrating a decade since her last tour.

“She’s had a few stints in the studio since her last album, but she’s been really focused on her makeup, clothing and lingerie lines,” one source noted. But now, with her third child born, the timing feels right.

Fans are buzzing. “We need new Rihanna music ASAP,” one Instagram post declared. Others speculate on collaborations – perhaps with producers like Alesso or Diplo, or even fresh faces like Ayra Starr.

Rihanna has previously teased that her next album will be “unexpected” and “not anything that anybody expects.” She dismissed old reggae rumors, insisting: “Way off!”

What Fans Are Saying – And Why the Wait Was Worth It

The internet exploded with excitement. “Not me subtly hoping your only big 2026 decision would be which state you’re going to start the tour,” one fan joked.

Others praised her for prioritizing family: “She’s a mom now, she deserves to take her time.” But the hunger for new music is palpable – Anti remains a cultural touchstone, with tracks like Love on the Brain and Needed Me still dominating playlists.

Rihanna has always marched to her own beat. “After waiting eight years, you might as well just wait some more,” she quipped in a recent interview. But with tour plans solidifying and album whispers growing louder, 2026 could finally be the year fans get what they’ve been craving.

As one insider summed up: “This feels massive to her and her team.”

Whether it’s a full-blown album drop or a surprise single to kick off the tour, one thing is certain – when Rihanna returns, the world will be watching.