Rihanna Explains ‘I’m Retired’ T-Shirt, Talks “Starting Over” on Anticipated Album [Video]

Despite rumors swirling about her retirement (partially fueled after she wore an “I’m retired” tee), Rihanna confirmed that she’s far from done.

Catching up with ET’s Kevin Frazier at her Fenty Hair launch event, Rihanna shared exciting updates about her highly anticipated album, dubbed R9 by fans.

Rih Rih had her Navy in shambles last week after she was spotted rocking a t-shirt that read, “I’m Retired.” Addressing the madness, Rihanna laughed it off, saying, “People got triggered with that retired word. They were like, ‘We’re never getting an album now.’ No one read the other line, it was something about, ‘This is as dressed up as I get.’”

However, fans can breathe easy, as Rihanna revealed she’s been actively working in the studio. “I think that music, for me, is a new discovery,” she explained. “I’m rediscovering things. I have been working on the album for so long that I kinda put all that stuff aside and now I’m prepared to go back in the studio. I’m gonna start—give me a second!”

Rihanna’s creative process involves revisiting previously recorded songs while also crafting new ones. “Yeah, I’m starting over,” she said. “But I don’t want to neglect the songs that I have, so I actually want to go back and listen to stuff with new ears, with my new perspective and then see what applies and what I’m still in love with.”

Although Rihanna hasn’t released an album since 2016’s Anti, her music continues to thrive. Recently, her 2012 single “Diamonds” was RIAA certified Diamond. Reflecting on the song’s success, Rihanna said, “Wow, I remember where we made it from the jump. It was in London, and I also remember performing ‘Diamonds’ on tour. Performing it with all the lights… everyone puts their phone out at that very moment. And it’s connected to my grandma. I literally think of her every single time I perform that.”