Rihanna’s “Diamonds” Earns Diamond Certification: A Historic Milestone in Music
Nearly 3,000 days have passed since Rihanna last released a new album, but her legacy continues to shine brighter than ever. Her 2012 hit “Diamonds” has officially achieved diamond certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), solidifying its place among music’s greatest achievements. This recognition makes “Diamonds” her third diamond-certified single, a testament to her enduring influence and popularity.
A Third Diamond Milestone
The announcement was made by Roc Nation on X (formerly Twitter), celebrating Rihanna’s incredible milestone. “Diamonds” now joins her other iconic tracks:
“Love the Way You Lie”
- – Her 2010 collaboration with Eminem, certified diamond on May 9, 2013.
“We Found Love”
- – The 2011 global smash with Calvin Harris, certified diamond on April 27, 2023.
This rare achievement cements Rihanna as one of the few artists in history to have three diamond-certified singles, a feat that highlights her unparalleled success and widespread appeal.
The Journey of “Diamonds”
“Diamonds,” released in 2012 as the lead single from Rihanna’s seventh studio album, Unapologetic, was an instant success. Written by Sia, Benny Blanco, StarGate, and produced by Blanco and StarGate, the song brought a new emotional depth to Rihanna’s repertoire, showcasing her vocal strength and versatility.
The song quickly climbed the charts, achieving several remarkable feats:
Billboard Hot 100: Rihanna’s 12th No. 1 hit, reigning for three weeks.
Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs: Held the top spot for an impressive 14 weeks.
Rhythmic Airplay Chart: Dominated for ten weeks.
Dance Club Songs Chart: Reigned for one week.
The album Unapologetic itself was a critical and commercial success, earning a nomination for Best Urban Contemporary Album at the 2014 Grammy Awards. With its bold themes and hit singles, it further solidified Rihanna’s status as a global superstar.
The Power of “Diamonds”
Beyond its commercial success, “Diamonds” is celebrated for its timeless message of resilience and self-worth. The song’s lyrics, “Shine bright like a diamond,” became a universal anthem, inspiring listeners to embrace their inner strength.
The accompanying music video, directed by Anthony Mandler, added to its allure, featuring breathtaking visuals and a raw, emotional portrayal of Rihanna’s journey. To date, the video has garnered billions of views on YouTube, a testament to its lasting impact.
Rihanna’s Continued Reign Despite Hiatus
While Rihanna has been focusing on ventures outside of music—building her billion-dollar Fenty Beauty empire and starring in films—her influence in the music industry remains unshaken. Fans have eagerly awaited new music, but milestones like this remind the world of her enduring relevance.
Despite nearly a decade without a new album, Rihanna’s music continues to resonate with old and new fans alike. Songs like “Diamonds” have become cultural touchstones, proving the staying power of her artistry.
What’s Next for Rihanna?
With three diamond-certified singles, Rihanna has joined an elite group of artists whose work transcends time. Fans worldwide hope that this milestone might inspire her to return to the studio and create more unforgettable hits.
As Rihanna’s legacy continues to grow, “Diamonds” shines as a beacon of her brilliance, reminding us why she remains one of the most iconic artists of our generation.
What are your favorite Rihanna songs, and how do you feel about “Diamonds” reaching diamond status? Let us know in the comments!
