Adele honors Rihanna. The vocal powerhouse paid tribute to her pop counterpart as part TIME’s annual 100 Most Influential People 2018.
“I actually can’t remember the first time I met Rihanna; I was probably numb from the shock it,” writes Adele. “She is one year older than me, but I feel like she’s been around forever. The progression her superstardom feels steady, well deserved and extremely natural.”
After mentioning 2005’s “Pon De Replay,” the British superstar singles out 2007’s “Umbrella” as a milestone moment. “It crossed her over to every platform and into everyone’s lives,” she added. “It felt like she had truly arrived, and she hasn’t slowed down since.”
Adele also went on to celebrate Bad Gal’s role as a rule breaker and innovator. “She has designed and conquered an entire lane her own,” she wrote. “The innovative and groundbreaking world Rihanna that no one else will ever be safe in and get away with copying. She makes her own rules and bends ours.”
Most notably, Adele honored Rihanna for being a gracious star who “doesn’t give a fuck.” “Whenever I’ve met her, she’s been the most gracious, loyal and funny goball an icon,” she continued. “She glows like when someone’s taken a picture with a flash and you’re dazed for a few minutes after. But it’s also very clear in that glow that she genuinely doesn’t give a fuck; she’s fearless and full all the right kind attitude to be everything that she is and will be forever.”
Cardi B is also a member this year’s TIME 100. Taraji P. Henson wrote about her for the mag. “Now she’s the biggest thing in music,” said the Golden Globe-winning actress. “And even with all those eyeballs watching, she’s still unapologetically herself. Cardi B’s here to stay, baby, and I’m happy to be a witness.”
Other TIME 100 honorees this year also include Jennifer Lopez, Tiffany Haddish, Issa Rae, Ryan Coogler, and Lena Waithe.