Rihanna Becomes Barbados National Hero: From Selling Belt to Winning 9 Grammys

After 396 years, the sun of the British monarchy's rule on the Caribbean island of Barbados has set. The world's newest republic, celebrating an independent republic, has declared pop star Rihanna as the National Hero of Barbados.

Rihanna is Barbados' most famous citizen and in 2018 she was appointed an official ambassador for culture and youth. Internationally its music, RnB.

Born as Robin Rihanna Fenty in Bridgetown, Barbados, Rihanna spent her childhood with a drunk father and a mother who worked hard to support the family. There was a time when young Rihanna had to sell hats and belts with her father.

At the age of 14, Rihanna formed a girl band called Contrast, along with her friends. The group auditioned for music producer Evan Richards, who was impressed. Then Rihanna met with rapper Jay Z, who signed her.Rihanna's debut album was "Music of the Sun" (2005), a Caribbean dance-pop album. It sold more than 2 million copies. The song from this album - Pon de Replay - became an instant global hit.