As we trek into the last leg of February, it’s worth noting there’s something pretty significant happening in that time frame. If you guessed that it’s the beginning of the most fabulous season to ever exist, Pisces season, then you’re close. It happens to mark the birthday of the most fabulous Pisces to ever exist: Rihanna. Our favorite bad gal will be bringing in her 34th birthday on Feb. 20 and what can we say? We’re a little emotional. Not because birthdays can be sentimental, but because of how awesome it has been to witness Rihanna’s world domination, all before turning 40. From being one of the reigning queens of the music industry to dominating the beauty industry, Rihanna is and has always been the moment. The it girl, even.

With our reigning queen of all things savage bringing her own little bundle of joy into the world, this birthday is extra special; we’re happy to reminisce on eight times Rihanna encouraged us to tap into our inner savage.

1. When she channeled Josephine Baker at the 2014 CFDA Fashion Awards.

Only Rihanna could show up to an awards show looking just as glamorous as the iconic Josephine Baker. It makes complete sense considering they’re both icons.

2. When she said what she said.

We’re not sure if Rihanna and Nene Leakes are actual friends, but after this moment, they might be. Our girl made it clear that she'd perform what she wants.

3. When she helped a fan come out of the closet.

No, those aren’t onions because we’re crying right along with you. Kudos to Rih for helping one of her beloved fans with something so many queer people struggle with.

4. When she accepted the Michael Jackson Vanguard Award at the 2016 VMAs.

A medley of all Rihanna songs? Pre-pandemic, at that?! We’ll take it! We love to see Rihanna getting her well-deserved flowers while she’s still among us.

5. When she stood up for Black lives.

Black lives have always mattered and it’s so refreshing to see that Rihanna has always championed that. We stan a queen who is pro-Black.

6. When she was named Harvard University’s Humanitarian of the Year.

Rihanna may be one of the most glamorous women in the world, but she also has one of the biggest hearts in the world, as well. So much so, that Harvard saw fit to honor her.

7. When she inspired non-Black people to stand up for Black issues.

Oftentimes, non-Black people evade accountability for appropriating our culture while sitting idle amid anti-Blackness. We’re so happy Rihanna called that trash behavior out.

8. When she changed the game of the cosmetic industry.

One would think that the beauty industry would already be inclusive with different shades reflecting the diversity of people in the world. Unfortunately, they are not, and Rihanna changed the entire game when she launched Fenty Beauty, a brand that reflects all people.

Say what you want about Miss Fenty, one has to admit that her influence is universal and will continue to be well into the future. The courage to be herself, unapologetically, is a lesson that we can all take heed of.

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