So many years and Rihanna kept the same friends…
Childhood Friendship is often underrated, considering the tremendous impact it has on our well being. Early-childhood friendship is something that is frequently overlooked as a positive developmental influence. We don’t always realize how attached young children are to their friends.
Do you know that Rihanna a.k.a Riri has kept her childhood pals; Sonita Alexander and Melissa Forde, so close to her even up to now?
The Barbados singing sensation explains that as a kid, she moved at ages 5, 8 and 11 but each time, she had to leave behind dear friends who had become a big part of my life. She, however, fusses that her parents helped her stay connected, encouraging the star singer to continue these relationships into adulthood.
READ ALSO; Rihanna reveals she forgave Chris Brown, says she will always love him
Guess what? She heed to the parents’ advice!
So many years and Rihanna kept the same friends. Sonita Alexander who is now a doctor in Barbados and whom Riri says keeps her humble. Melissa Forde her closest friend who is also her photographer which has made her world famous and a multi-millionaire.
The trio met when they were around 11 and Riri still kept them close to this day in spite of the world fame and wealth. It is said it was Melissa who introduced 16 yr old Riri to record producer Evan Rogers who was staying at the hotel they were working at while on vacation in Barbados.
They sang for Evan as a group but he was amazed by Riri. Apparently, Evan sent Jay Z the Riri demo Pon de Replay and Jay Z immediately flew her to NYC to his office in 2005.
Jay Z signed her to a 6 album record deal the same day after hearing her sing, he refused to let her leave the building until she signed and the rest is history.
Below is a top pic of them when they were around 15 and bottom pic of them in 2021 when they were 33 and Riri was made a National hero of Barbados.
Enock Mugabi aka iWitness is a Journalist, Seasoned Writer and Music Analyst with a passion for sports.
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