When it comes to iconic songs and unforgettable moments in pop music, Rihanna’s “What’s My Name?” stands out as a defining track that captured hearts worldwide. Released during a pivotal time in Rihanna’s career, this song not only showcased her unique vocal style but also solidified her position as a global superstar.
The track’s vibrant blend of reggae-infused pop and R&B rhythms brought a fresh sound to the music scene, making it an instant hit. But when exactly was “What’s My Name?” released, and what made its timing so impactful?
Understanding the release date helps us appreciate the cultural context and the momentum Rihanna was building at that time.
Knowing the release date is more than just a trivia fact; it allows us to explore the song’s journey from studio to charts and its reception among fans and critics alike. It’s fascinating to see how this track contributed to the success of Rihanna’s album and influenced the music industry during the late 2000s.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer curious about Rihanna’s discography, the story behind “What’s My Name?” release offers insight into the artistry and strategy that shaped one of the decade’s biggest hits.
Let’s delve into the details of this remarkable song, its release timeline, and its enduring legacy.
The Official Release Date of “What’s My Name?”
The official release date of Rihanna’s “What’s My Name?” marks a significant moment in her career timeline. This single was introduced to the public at a time when Rihanna was rapidly ascending to global stardom, making the date crucial in understanding her rise.
“What’s My Name?” was officially released on October 25, 2007. This release came as the second single from her third studio album, Good Girl Gone Bad, which was pivotal in transforming Rihanna’s image and sound.
The timing positioned the song perfectly for the upcoming holiday season, allowing it to gain widespread radio play and chart success.
Releasing the song in late October also gave it ample runway to climb the charts in the subsequent months. This strategy helped maintain momentum following the success of her earlier single, “Umbrella,” which had dominated the charts earlier that year.
- Release Date: October 25, 2007
- Album: Good Girl Gone Bad
- Single Number: Second single from the album
- Genre: Reggae-infused pop and R&B
“’What’s My Name?’ was a defining moment—showcasing Rihanna’s versatility and appeal across genres.” – Music Industry Analyst
Background and Production of the Song
Before “What’s My Name?” hit the airwaves, its creation involved a collaboration of talented producers and songwriters. The track’s production history reveals how the song’s unique sound was meticulously crafted to resonate with a broad audience.
The song was written by several composers including Shawn Carter, better known as Jay-Z, who also featured as a guest rapper on the track. Production was handled by the renowned duo Stargate, who were instrumental in shaping the polished yet vibrant sound Rihanna became known for during this era.
The fusion of reggae beats with pop and R&B elements was a deliberate choice to differentiate the song from typical mainstream releases. This blend aligned perfectly with Rihanna’s Caribbean roots, lending authenticity and depth to the track’s vibe.
- Writers: Shawn Carter (Jay-Z), Mikkel S. Eriksen, Tor Erik Hermansen, Ester Dean
- Producers: Stargate
- Featured Artist: Jay-Z
- Musical Style: Reggae-pop fusion
The Collaborative Impact
The collaboration with Jay-Z not only added star power but also bridged the gap between hip-hop and pop audiences. His verse complemented Rihanna’s smooth vocals, creating a dynamic interplay that appealed to diverse listeners.
Stargate’s production emphasized catchy melodies and rhythmic beats that were dancefloor-ready yet radio-friendly. Their expertise helped Rihanna evolve from a rising star to a chart-topping artist with a distinctive sound.
This combination of talents was a formula for success, contributing significantly to the song’s widespread acclaim and chart performance.
Chart Performance and Commercial Success
Following its release, “What’s My Name?” quickly climbed music charts worldwide, reflecting its commercial impact and the strong connection it made with listeners. The song’s chart performance is a testament to its popularity and the effective marketing strategies behind it.
In the United States, the song reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, marking another milestone for Rihanna as she continued to dominate the charts. It also achieved top ten positions in numerous countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
The song’s success was not limited to chart positions but extended to sales and certifications. It received multiple platinum certifications for high digital sales and streaming figures, underscoring its lasting appeal.
| Country | Peak Chart Position | Certification |
| United States | 1 (Billboard Hot 100) | 3x Platinum |
| United Kingdom | 4 (UK Singles Chart) | Platinum |
| Canada | 2 (Canadian Hot 100) | Platinum |
| Australia | 6 (ARIA Charts) | Gold |
“The song’s immediate chart-topping success reflected Rihanna’s ability to connect across genres and demographics.” – Billboard Magazine
The Music Video Release and Visual Impact
The music video for “What’s My Name?” was released shortly after the single, adding a visual dimension that enhanced the song’s popularity. It played a significant role in promoting the track and showcasing Rihanna’s evolving image.
Directed by Melina Matsoukas, the video captured a sensual and fun atmosphere, featuring vibrant scenes set in urban and tropical locations. Rihanna’s charismatic presence and stylish wardrobe choices helped cement her status as a fashion and music icon.
The video’s release was strategically timed to maintain the song’s momentum and provide fans with a compelling visual experience that complemented the track’s energy.
- Director: Melina Matsoukas
- Release Date: November 2007
- Visual Themes: Urban nightlife, tropical aesthetics
- Fashion Highlights: Bold, trendy outfits reflecting Rihanna’s style evolution
Reception and Influence
The video received heavy rotation on music channels like MTV and VH1, helping the song reach wider audiences. Critics praised the visual for its creativity and Rihanna’s confident performance.
Its influence extended beyond music, impacting fashion trends and inspiring other artists to blend cultural elements in their videos. The success of the video contributed significantly to the overall legacy of “What’s My Name?” as a multi-dimensional hit.
Live Performances and Cultural Impact
Live performances of “What’s My Name?” further amplified the song’s reach and cultural footprint. Rihanna delivered memorable renditions at award shows and concerts that showcased her vocal prowess and stage presence.
One notable performance took place at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, where Rihanna’s energy and charisma captivated viewers. These live moments helped solidify the song’s place in pop culture and demonstrated Rihanna’s ability to command a stage.
Beyond live shows, the song influenced fashion, language, and music trends, becoming an anthem for confidence and playful romance.
- 2008 MTV Video Music Awards performance
- Included in multiple world tour setlists
- Inspired numerous covers and remixes
- Featured in films and TV shows, enhancing its cultural reach
“Performing ‘What’s My Name?’ live, Rihanna connects with the audience in a way that transcends the studio recording.” – Concert Review, Rolling Stone
How “What’s My Name?” Fits into Rihanna’s Career Timeline
The release of “What’s My Name?” was a milestone that fit strategically within Rihanna’s career trajectory. It followed the massive success of “Umbrella” and helped transition her image from teen pop star to a more mature, versatile artist.
This track was part of the album Good Girl Gone Bad, which marked a turning point in Rihanna’s sound and public persona. The album embraced edgier, more confident themes and included collaborations that broadened her appeal.
The song’s success helped pave the way for future hits, influencing the direction Rihanna would take in subsequent albums and projects.
| Album | Key Singles | Career Impact |
| Good Girl Gone Bad (2007) | “Umbrella”, “What’s My Name?”, “Shut Up and Drive” | Established Rihanna as a global superstar |
| Rated R (2009) | “Russian Roulette”, “Rude Boy” | Showcased a darker, more experimental side |
| Loud (2010) | “Only Girl”, “What’s My Name?” continued popularity | Solidified mainstream dominance |
Legacy and Influence of “What’s My Name?”
The legacy of “What’s My Name?” extends beyond its initial release and chart success. It remains one of Rihanna’s signature songs and continues to influence artists and fans alike.
The song’s unique blend of genres and catchy hook made it a template for many pop and R&B songs that followed. Its influence can be seen in how artists approach collaboration and genre fusion today.
Moreover, “What’s My Name?” contributed to Rihanna’s reputation as a trendsetter not just in music but in fashion and culture, inspiring countless tributes and references.
- Continues to be streamed millions of times annually
- Referenced in pop culture and media
- Inspired subsequent collaborations blending genres
- Highlighted Rihanna’s role in shaping modern pop music
“’What’s My Name?’ is more than a hit; it’s a cultural milestone that defines an era of music innovation.” – Music Historian
Where to Explore More About Names and Origins
Diving into the story of “What’s My Name?” naturally sparks curiosity about the significance of names in different contexts. Whether it’s a song title, a band name, or even how places get their names, understanding these origins enriches our appreciation of culture and history.
For those interested in the fascinating stories behind names, there are many resources available that explore naming customs and histories. Learning about how names are chosen, changed, or popularized can provide valuable insights into identity and societal trends.
Exploring such topics can be both entertaining and educational, offering a deeper connection to the names that shape our world.
- Origins of place names like How Did Phoenix Get Its Name? Uncover the Fascinating Story
- Exploring band names in How Did Korn Get Their Name? The NSFW Origin Explained
- Understanding personal name changes with Can You Change Your Name in FFXIV? Easy Steps Explained
These stories provide a broader context to the importance of names and titles, much like how “What’s My Name?” carries significance beyond just being a song title.
Ultimately, the journey into the release date and impact of Rihanna’s “What’s My Name?” reveals a rich tapestry of creativity, timing, and cultural influence that defines a key moment in music history.
