Rihanna Fuels Retirement Speculation with Provocative T-Shirt Message
3 min read
Ulices Ramales / BACKGRID
Rihanna’s fans are once again grappling with the possibility that the music icon might be stepping away from the industry. The 36-year-old “Diamonds” singer was recently spotted in New York City wearing a T-shirt that read, “I’m retired. This is as dressed up as I get,” sparking intense speculation. Accompanied by her husband, A$AP Rocky, Rihanna’ choice of attire has left fans wondering about the future of her music career.
On Thursday, Rihanna was seen in New York City with A$AP Rocky, sporting a graphic tee that boldly declared her retirement. She paired the vintage Peacock Papers T-shirt with an ankle-length navy skirt, neon-green Bottega Veneta purse, vintage Dior sunglasses, and red sneakers, creating a relaxed yet stylish look. This public appearance has only fueled rumors that the singer might be taking a break from her musical endeavors, especially as she prepares for her third child. While there is no official confirmation of her pregnancy, her deliberate efforts to cover her stomach have added to the speculation.
Rihanna steps out with an “I’m Retired” shirt. https://t.co/01uXbFzp30
— Pop Base (@PopBase) June 7, 2024
Rih anna has not released an album since 2016’s “Anti,” focusing instead on expanding her beauty empire and recently announcing plans to launch her own hairline. Her T-shirt seemed to address the ongoing clamor for new music directly. As photos of her outing went viral, social media exploded with reactions. One fan commented, “It’s giving expect no album,” while another said, “This shirt is pop star 101 activity!”
Despite the provocative statement on her T-shirt, Rihanna has never officially announced her retirement from music. Fans, however, had plenty to say on social media. One user on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, “Rihanna was spotted in public wearing a shirt saying ‘I’m Retired’ it’s actually over 🥲🥲🥲.” Another fan expressed frustration, tweeting, “Since u so retired we not buying no Fenty products no more @rihanna ✌🏽.”
The whole t-shirt: pic.twitter.com/ogPOmVP89w
— JORGE 𝐍ϻ (@ChunRihStan) June 7, 2024
A paparazzi who encountered Rihanna shared a playful interaction with her, tweeting, “Rihanna being playful today with me rocking an ‘I’m retired’ shirt. I complimented her on @fentyhair, and @badgalriri said thank you. She also said, ‘Cesar, you looking skinny. You on Ozempic?’ 🤦🏾 lol. I was like noooo haha. Classic moment.”
Despite the rumors, it seems unlikely that Rihanna is retiring. She has been hinting at new music for several weeks. In April, she confirmed to Extra that a new album is in the works, saying, “It’s gonna be amazing. It has to be — that is the only reason it’s not out yet. There should be a show of growth, right?” She emphasized that she wants to have fun with her music and show where she is at creatively.
oh we never gettin an album 💀
— The Tesla Hoe (@TheTeslaHoe) June 7, 2024
“I’m retired” NEW SINGLE OF HER NEW ALBUM COMING SOON OMG
— echo🪞 (@ECHOESmirrors) June 7, 2024
However, the release date for her much-anticipated ninth studio album remains unclear. Fans, who have eagerly awaited new music since “Anti,” continue to express their hopes and frustrations online. One user tweeted, “Rihanna literally said f–k yall, I’m retired 😭 never getting an album from a retired queen.” Another implored, “Not Rihanna being spotted wearing a ‘I’m retired’ shirt.. GIRL IF YOU DON’T GET IN THE BOOTH!!”
While her shirt sparked a wave of speculation, Rihanna’s own words suggest that she is far from finished with music. The Grammy-winning artist has assured fans that when her new album does drop, it will be worth the wait.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
