After a long absence from the center stage, Rihanna made a comeback and set the internet on fire. The global music sensation’s return was highly anticipated after the news of her Super Bowl halftime performance was announced. Keeping in mind the pre-existing hype around halftime performances, fans eagerly anticipated her show. However, in true RiRi fashion, her comeback didn’t just include the biggest game of the NFL season. It included the Oscars.
Yes, a night where every big name in Hollywood is gathered under one roof is annually anticipated by fans across the globe. And this year, RiRi was all set to make her mark on Hollywood’s biggest night. And the singer, who is expecting her second child, made sure that the world was reminded of her iconic vocals. So, what did she do?
Rihanna has taken over the Oscar stage by fire
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When Rihanna took the stage at State Farm Stadium, expectations were set high. However, despite the 9x Grammy winner performing some of her biggest hits, the lingering taste of disappointment from fans was evident. Keeping in mind the showmanship from previous halftime performances, many were expecting a show that surpassed others on the theatrical front.
Although RiRi made ample use of a floating platform, her performance came off ‘tame’ with regard to theatrics and its overall appeal. But the singer received backlash for more than just her supposedly bland and lip-synced show. Some viewers took issue with the singer’s generous use of explicit language and provocative dance moves, resulting in complaints about the FCC. However, at present, the tide has shifted.
Rihanna performs “Lift Me Up” at the #Oscars. https://t.co/ndiKiHfmID pic.twitter.com/cyESzOZnmm
— Variety (@Variety) March 13, 2023
Rihanna graced the Oscars with a hauntingly beautiful rendition of her song ‘Lift Me Up’ from the movie ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.’ The track earned the superstar her first Oscar Nomination.
Taking to the stage, RiRi’s powerful vocals permeated the air, drawing in reactions from fans across the globe. And their reactions offered greater adulation compared to the Super Bowl halftime show. Here’s what they had to say.
Fans can’t help but move to tears
While Rihanna’s Super Bowl performance was a mixed bag of her hits, her Oscar rendition highlighted her vocal abilities with just one song. Some fans were moved to tears after watching RiRi’s performance.
Absolutely breathtaking. Love 💕 love. Brought me to tears. Listen to the lyrics. Lift me up!!❤️❤️❤️
— Cynthia Love (@Cynthia39540993) March 13, 2023
Didnt expect to cry watching the oscars but here we are
— AngelWingsYT💙💛 🔜 #C2E2 (@AngelWingsYTube) March 13, 2023
I cried hearing it in the movie, And I cried now, because it's a very powerful song as I miss Chadwick Bozeman and I miss someone in my personal life. Love you Rihanna Fendi.
— saradearone (@Saradearone) March 13, 2023
Got me all teary what a beautiful performance she is such a great soul and shows thru her voice
— Ivan Bold (@King_theBest) March 13, 2023
Other fans applauded the singer by saying:
This was a stellar performance. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
— Harper Miller (@authorharpmill) March 13, 2023
I felt it to my core…beautifully done
— Ira (@ira_oji) March 13, 2023
One user exclaimed
She’s a legend ❤️
— Steph (@menacetoanthony) March 13, 2023
This fan stated
Goosebumps all over again 🥲
— 𝒢ℯ𝓃ℯ𝓋𝒾ℯ𝓋ℯ ᴬᴹᴬᴷᴬ🎖️🇳🇬 (@Chimziterem_) March 13, 2023
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One user demanded
She better win for that song and the performance
— Rajul (@mefabme) March 13, 2023
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The overwhelming positivity surrounding Rihanna’s Oscar performance is in sharp contrast with her Super Bowl show. But, keeping in mind the nature of the events RiRi performed at, it’s not difficult to understand where fans’ disappointment was stemming from. However, the singer has managed to put criticism in the past. The reactions to her Oscar performance prove that RiRi has made her return and there’s no way for her to go but up.
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