Rihanna has seemingly amazed her fans by ending her long musical hiatus. The multitalented star has eight studio albums to her name and countless awards, including nine Grammy wins. However, despite her popularity in the music scene, she hasn’t released an album since 2016 and her last single was part of the soundtrack for the 2022 blockbuster Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. 

But it seems all that is set to change with claims that she and her long-time partner, A$AP Rocky, have been attending secret sessions at the Red Bus Recording Studio in London. 

The couple, who were friends before dating in 2020, share two sons, RZA, two, and Riot, 13 months, and are said to be collaborating on a tribute song for their late friend Fatman Scoop. 

Born Isaac Freeman III, the American rapper, hype man and radio personality tragically died last month after collapsing on stage mid-way through a performance in Hamden Town Center Park, Connecticut. 

Footage of the disturbing medical event circulated online, showing the star climbing onto a stage platform before falling over. Emergency staff then rushed over to perform CPR as fans watched on in horror. 

Devastatingly, the 53-year-old star, who was friends with Rihanna and Rocky, could not be saved and was pronounced later that day. 

His cause of death has not yet been revealed to the public.

Now a source has claimed that the musicians are teaming up with other friends of the late star to pay tribute to him. 

Speaking to The Sun, a source said the Umbrella singer was close with the rapper as they had collaborated throughout their careers. 

Their most recent interaction reportedly occurred when Scoop recorded the unreleased single, Happy Hood, for Rocky’s album, Don’t Be Dumb.

‘After his death, Rihanna was offered the chance to put some vocals on it,’ the source said. 

‘She spent the start of this week holed up in Red Bus Recording Studios in London.’ They added: ‘It was a super low-key visit, and she was there for a day or two until the early hours.’

Rocky previously told Zane Lowe on his Apple 1 Music show, The Zane Lowe Show, that it’s a single featuring some very special guests. 

‘I literally tried to figure out how to get my favourite rappers,’ he said. 

‘So I got a track with Fatman Scoop, Flavor Flav, Slick Rick, Morrissey, and Busta Rhymes all on one.’ He added: ‘It’s kind of nuts. We call that one Hood Happy. That’s coming soon.’

The track was initially meant to be released on August 30, the same day Scoop died.

It has since been postponed until later this year so the rapper can reproduce it with new vocals, reportedly from Rihanna and other stars. 

Rihanna’s Return to Music

Rihanna’s decision to return to the music scene comes after a long hiatus since the release of her last album, Anti, in 2016. The singer has been focusing on her entrepreneurial endeavors, including her successful beauty and fashion brands, Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty. However, it seems that she is now ready to reignite her musical career, much to the delight of her fans.

A Touching Tribute to a Legend

Fatman Scoop’s death shocked the music industry and his fans worldwide. His infectious energy and unique personality left an indelible mark on the rap and hip-hop scene. The tribute song by Rihanna and A$AP Rocky, along with other prominent musicians, is a fitting tribute to the late rapper’s legacy.

More Than Just a Collaboration

The collaboration between Rihanna and A$AP Rocky extends beyond a musical project. It showcases the power of music as a medium to express grief, pay homage to loved ones, and create a shared sense of remembrance. The tribute song to Fatman Scoop is more than just a track; it’s a heartfelt expression of respect and admiration for a musical icon.

A New Era for Rihanna

While the tribute song serves as a poignant homage, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter in Rihanna’s musical journey. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of her ninth album, which promises to be a captivating testament to her artistic evolution and enduring influence. The news of her musical comeback, coupled with the upcoming tribute to Fatman Scoop, signifies a significant moment in both Rihanna’s career and the music industry as a whole.

Looking Ahead

With Rihanna back in the studio and a tribute song for Fatman Scoop in the pipeline, the music scene is poised for exciting times. The upcoming releases are a testament to the power of music, its ability to transcend loss, and its enduring capacity to connect artists and fans on a profound level.