Music of the Sun

August 29, 2005 marked the arrival of Music of the Sun, the debut studio album by Barbadian singer Rihanna. The project emerged after producers Carl Sturken and Evan Rogers discovered her at age 16 in Barbados and sent their demos to Jay-Z. The Def Jam CEO signed her immediately after hearing "Pon de Replay." This record blends dance-pop and R&B with distinct Caribbean flavors like reggae, soca, and Latin pop.

Jay-Z executive produced the entire project while other collaborators included Poke & Tone and Stargate. Guest features appear on tracks like "Rush" with Kardinal Offishall and "There's a Thug in My Life" by J-Status. Vybz Kartel joins the remix of the lead single. Critics offered mixed reactions upon release, praising her vocal potential but noting the production felt derivative compared to her later work. [edit]