What makes Can't Remember to Forget You by Rihanna notable?

The single debuted at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a commercial success internationally. It garnered significant media attention not only for its catchy hook but also for the notable collaboration between Rihanna and Shakira, two prominent figures in pop music, which further solidified their influence in contemporary music. By 2014, Rihanna was already a global superstar with several chart-topping albums. 'Can't Remember to Forget You' served as a lead single for her eighth studio album, marking a continuation of her successful partnership with major producers like Shakira. This collaboration highlighted her ability to fuse different genres while maintaining her distinct style.

How many songs are on Can't Remember to Forget You?

Can't Remember to Forget You has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Can't Remember to Forget You

Rihanna · 2014

3 min · 1 track · contemporary R&B

A vibrant blend of reggae-infused pop and sultry R&B, showcasing a playful chemistry between the artists.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Can’t Remember to Forget You — This track exemplifies the album's thematic exploration of love and memory while showcasing a seamless blend of pop and dancehall influences. The dynamic interplay between Rihanna's and Shakira's vocals creates an infectious energy that defines the song.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong production and vocal interplay but lacks depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

The track features a prominent reggae rhythm that underpins the verses, while the chorus shifts to a more pop-oriented melody.
Rihanna and Shakira alternate vocal lines, creating a dynamic interplay that emphasizes their chemistry throughout the song.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The single continued Rihanna's established success and showcased her evolving sound.
Themes: summer flings· reggae-infused pop· dance floor memories
Career context: By 2014, Rihanna was already a global superstar with several chart-topping albums. 'Can't Remember to Forget You' served as a lead single for her eighth studio album, marking a continuation of her successful partnership with major producers like Shakira. This collaboration highlighted her ability to fuse different genres while maintaining her distinct style.
Stylistic neighbors: Beyoncé· Dua Lipa· SZA