Is Rihanna Finally Teasing "R9"?

Image via Fred Duval / Shutterstock

Rihanna has the internet buzzing after being spotted entering a New York City recording studio early Saturday morning. Clad in a chic tan coat with fur embellishments, workout gear, and a Louis Vuitton handbag, the “Diamonds” hitmaker’s rare studio appearance has reignited hopes of her long-awaited ninth studio album, affectionately dubbed "R9" by fans.

Since the release of Anti in 2016, Rihanna has expanded her empire with Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty while balancing her role as a mother to sons RZA and Riot, whom she shares with partner A$AP Rocky. However, her studio sighting has fans split between excitement and scepticism.

While some Navy members are already celebrating a potential album announcement — “R9 IS COMING,” one fan declared — others aren’t so sure. Speculation ranges from voiceovers for her Fenty ads to recording music for her role as Smurfette in the upcoming Smurfs animated movie.

Rihanna herself has admitted to taking her time with music. “I actually want to go back and listen to stuff with new ears,” she told Entertainment Tonight in mid-2024, adding that her perspective has evolved since becoming a mom.

Whether it’s an album or another project, one thing is certain: Rihanna’s moves never go unnoticed.