Rihanna continues to make history as “Only Girl (In the World)” surpasses 1 billion views on YouTube, while Queen’s iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody” becomes the first song from the 70s to reach 2 billion views. Both of these hits prove that music can transcend eras, generations, and genres, remaining forever alive.
Η Rihanna, without releasing a new album in almost ten years, is still one of the most influential figures in the global music scene. Her iconic song Only Girl (In the World), directed by Anthony Mandler, recently surpassed one billion views on YouTube — a milestone that confirms that its power is not limited by time or trends.
The video, which transports the viewer to colorful landscapes and dreamy images, perfectly reflects the title of the song. Rihanna appears as if she is truly the only girl in the world, singing amidst vast meadows of flowers and bright colors that seem to be taken from a fantastic reality. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from the album Loud and won her a Grammy for “Best Dance/Electronic Recording” in 2011.
Read also: Rihanna and A$AP Rocky shine at the Gotham Awards and talk about their family
With this distinction, the singer now reaches 13 videos that have surpassed one billion views, either as a solo artist or through collaborations with other famous creators. This success is not just a statistic; it is proof of the enormous impact that Rihanna has on modern music culture, but also on fashion, aesthetics and the way in which pop culture is expressed today.
She has managed to evolve from a rising pop icon to a female symbol of independence and authenticity. With the Fenty brand, she has connected music with fashion and female empowerment, confirming that her career is not only defined by her songs but also by the way she influences social narratives around diversity and self-confidence.
At the same time, Queen continues to prove that their work is beyond any time limit. The Bohemian Rhapsody, the 1975 masterpiece, has surpassed 2 billion views on YouTube, once again making history. It is the oldest song to ever reach this milestone on the platform.
The music video, directed by Bruce Gowers, is considered the first truly complete “music clip” in history. It features the four members of the band in iconic shots with shadows and intense lighting, while Freddie Mercury’s voice dominates over the piano, creating a theatrical, almost mystical atmosphere. The six-minute song combines rock, opera and ballad, with lyrics that remain enigmatic even today.
In the clip, Brian May delivers one of the most recognizable guitar moments in rock history, while the polyphony and dramatic climax of the chorus are immortal. The vocals of “Galileo” and “Beelzebub” continue to haunt each new generation of listeners, showing why Queen remains unsurpassed.
Read also: Queen: They are planning a “digital comeback” with a hologram show in the style of ABBA
This success proves that Queen's music, despite the years that have passed, continues to inspire, move and define the artistic identity of entire generations. It is no coincidence that the song experienced a new flourishing after the release of the film of the same name. Bohemian Rhapsody in 2018, bringing the greatness of the band back to the fore.
Comparing these two hits reveals something deeper: music has no expiration date. From the explosive energy and contemporary brilliance of Rihanna to the unsurpassed artistic legacy of Queen, the creations that touch people's hearts continue to travel, regardless of the decade in which they were born.
Rihanna, through her irresistible presence and inexhaustible talent, manages to hold the title of “the only girl in the world” even today. And through her wonderful, dreamy portrayal in the video for Only Girl (In the World), proves that her art still has the power to fill the world with light and emotion.
She has managed to create an identity that transcends musical boundaries, with each of her successes becoming a point of reference. Her music is not just sound; it is images, emotions and moments that remain etched in the memory.
In a world where hits come and go, Rihanna remains at the top, proving that authenticity and passion never go out of style. Her song is not just another hit; it's a cultural imprint that connects the past, present, and future of pop music.
She herself has said that her music was never just about dancing or having fun – it was a way to share emotions and bring people together. And that's exactly what she continues to do, with every viewing of the video reminding us why Rihanna is and will remain unique.
The Only Girl (In the World) may have been released 15 years ago, but it remains one of the most vivid and timeless examples of Rihanna's artistic identity – an artist who continues to inspire, evolve, and forever remain at the top.
Her success is not just numbers or views; it is proof that her music, like her presence, knows no bounds.
