Rihanna’s Rated R (2009) marks a darker, edgier turn, blending rock, hip-hop, and R&B with themes of empowerment and resilience. Produced by names like Ne-Yo and Tricky Stewart, it includes hits such as “Russian Roulette” and “Rude Boy,” earning critical acclaim for its bold sound and emotional depth, debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard 200.