What makes Fly by Rihanna notable?

'Fly' reached the top of the charts, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and solidifying Nicki Minaj's rising influence in music. The song's themes of empowerment resonated widely, leading to its use in various motivational contexts and public events. By the time 'Fly' was released in 2011, Rihanna was already a global superstar with five Grammy Awards under her belt. This collaboration with Nicki Minaj marked a notable moment in her career as it showcased her ability to cross genres while further solidifying her presence in the hip-hop realm.

How many songs are on Fly?

Fly has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Fly

Rihanna · 2011

3 min · 1 track · contemporary R&B

An empowering anthem blending pop and hip-hop with soaring melodies and assertive lyrics that inspire resilience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Fly — This track serves as an anthem of empowerment, featuring strong vocal performances and a catchy hook that elevates its message of resilience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The song combines strong vocal performances with an empowering message, making it memorable and impactful.

What we noticed

The song features a dynamic interplay between Rihanna's powerful vocals and Nicki Minaj's rapid-fire verses, creating a contrast in delivery.
The chorus is characterized by soaring melodies that build in intensity, emphasizing the theme of empowerment.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 — Collaboration with Nicki Minaj marked a significant moment in Rihanna's career.
Moods: Uplifting· Energetic
Career context: By the time 'Fly' was released in 2011, Rihanna was already a global superstar with five Grammy Awards under her belt. This collaboration with Nicki Minaj marked a notable moment in her career as it showcased her ability to cross genres while further solidifying her presence in the hip-hop realm.
Stylistic neighbors: Beyoncé· Dua Lipa· SZA

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Fly

The chorus emphasizes breaking free from constraints and soaring above challenges, giving listeners a sense of liberation.

The repetitive call to rise and overcome invites listeners to internalize the song's empowering message, making it both an anthem and a personal mantra.