Love on the Brain

Rihanna's "Love on the Brain" stands as a standout moment from her 2016 album Anti, blending vintage doo-wop and soul with a modern pop sensibility. Released as the fourth single on September 27, 2016, through Westbury Road and Roc Nation, the song was penned by Joseph Angel and producer Fred Ball. Its production, rich with guitar arpeggio, organ, and syncopated strings, creates a 1950s- and 1960s-inspired soundscape. The lyrics explore the painful push-and-pull of a toxic relationship, a theme that resonated widely. The track became a commercial success, peaking at number five on the US Billboard Hot 100. That placement gave Rihanna her 22nd top-five single, breaking a tie with Elvis Presley for the fifth-most top-five hits in chart history. It also became her 30th top-ten single, tying her with Madonna and The Beatles. The song earned a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America, with similar accolades in France and Poland. Rihanna performed "Love on the Brain" on her Anti World Tour and at major award shows, including the 2016 Billboard Music Awards and MTV Video Music Awards. Its enduring appeal has led to covers by artists like Kelly Clarkson, MGK, Ava Max, and Little Mix. [edit]