A$AP Rocky said that Rihanna is currently in the studio working on new music [1, 2].
The revelation is significant because the singer has not released a full-length studio album in 10 years [1]. Fans have spent a decade speculating about a follow-up to her 2016 project, *Anti* [1].
Rocky made the comments during an appearance on The Jason Lee Show on Aug. 5, 2024 [1, 2]. During the interview, the rapper confirmed that the singer is actively recording. "She in the studio right now," Rocky said [1].
He said that the work is genuine and not a joke. "Yeah, I said it. Sorry, babe. Like, bro, she working. She cooking, no funny s--t," Rocky said [1].
The comments have fueled widespread rumors regarding a new album, which fans have informally dubbed "R9" [1, 2]. While Rihanna, 37, has not officially announced a release date, Rocky's statements provide the first direct confirmation of her return to the recording process [2].
Following the interview, Rocky expressed some concern over revealing the information. "Damn, I’ma get in trouble for this," Rocky said [2].
Despite the lack of a formal press release from the singer's team, the confirmation from her partner has reignited global interest in her musical output. The singer has focused largely on her business ventures in recent years, leaving the timing of her musical return uncertain until now [1, 2].
“"She in the studio right now."”
The confirmation of Rihanna's return to the studio suggests a shift in her professional priorities after a long hiatus from the music industry. Given the decade-long gap since *Anti*, a new album would represent one of the most anticipated returns in modern pop music, potentially impacting streaming trends and industry revenue.
