The Transformation Of Rihanna From 17 To 33

Proving that her "Good Girl Gone Bad" rebellion wasn't just a phase, Rihanna followed up the success of the album with the 2008 goth hit "Disturbia." The song was written by her then-boyfriend Chris Brown, and the lyrics delve into mental anguish — an unconventional subject matter for a mainstream pop track. As producer LA Reid told MTV News, the track was the "first time" Rihanna had approached him with a song that she wanted to put out. "That was her taking control," he said. "She understands what hits are, and she knows what she wants to say."

Aesthetically, Rihanna's style similarly reflected a young woman who was suddenly in charge of her life and career. On the red carpet, she flourished in designer couture that wasn't run-of-the-mill teenybopper fare, but which made interesting statements with odd cuts, shapes, and concepts that announced Rihanna as a true artist with a keen eye for expression. She was a sensation.

Just as she appeared to be on top of everything, Brown was charged with assaulting Rihanna in 2009 (per Guardian). Speaking to Vanity Fair in 2015, Rihanna said that the way the media fixated on the assault made her feel "punished over and over." For the next decade she'd do everything in her power to push her best looks, sounds, and business acumen to the forefront of her narrative instead.

If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic abuse, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233. You can also find more information, resources, and support at their website.

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