Rihanna Writes Emotional Letter to Fans on 20th Anniversary of Debut Album

On Friday, Rihanna celebrated her career with an ode to 20 years of music. Her debut album, Music of the Sun, was released on August 29, 2005, so this was a very special anniversary. In an Instagram post, Rihanna thanked all of her fans, recounting the huge jump she made as a teenager into the industry.

“20 years ago, i left my country, my culture, my food, and family to embark on a journey that started with the release of my very first body of music!” she wrote in the caption. “So many of you were a part of my life and career since the very beginning, and some of you have joined the adventure along the way. I’m forever grateful to all of you. Each of you played a very crucial role in where this journey has taken me thus far!”

Rihanna went on to thank her fans specifically, expressing how she never would have gotten anywhere without them.

“I just wanted to take this moment to say thank you!” the Fenty Beauty founder wrote. “Thank you for the greatest first 20 years ever! 20 years of the most loyal, die-hard fans that don’t play about me whatsoever, 20 years of hard work and hardworking teams around me, 20 years of lessons, 20 years of unforgettable experiences and accomplishments, 20 years of my family being my number one support system, and to all the people who said yes to me and gave me a chance before it was “cool” to (Execs, DJ’s, writers, producers, dancers, choreographers, directors, fashion designers, photographers, glam, journalists, brands, mentors, etc etc) 20 years worth of thanks to you!! I thank God, He’s been very generous to me and the Glory belongs to Him!”

The gushing caption was set to a montage of Rihanna in her various music videos over the years, naming her accomplishments in awards, streams, and record sales.