Teairra Mari: The Girl Who Was Almost Rihanna

Many of you might know Teairra Mari from Love and Hip Hop. But did you know before that, she was poised to become the next big thing in Pop & R&B? Teairra was signed to Roc Nation and Def Jam as a teenager. She had support from the likes of Jay-Z and L.A. Reid. But it all changed one day when Beyonce told L.A. Reid that Teairra's labelmate, a 17-year-old Rihanna, was the one to watch. After low album sales, Teairra was dropped from Def Jam. Though she continued to sing and release music, her career definitely hasn't reached the heights that seemed likely back in 2005. Now, she's most known for her stint on Love and Hip Hop, and her battles with people like Ray-J, Hazel E, and 50 Cent.
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SOURCES:
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www.imdb.com/name/nm2017325/bio
www.vibe.com/music/music-news...
www.vh1.com/news/xnye9h/teair...
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www.complex.com/music/2015/09...
allhiphop.com/alternatives/te...
www.billboard.com/music/music...
love-hip-hop.fandom.com/wiki/...
madamenoire.com/1041814/teair...
www.enstarz.com/articles/1335...
www.vh1.com/news/innguo/teair...
www.tmz.com/2018/05/17/teairr...
hiphopdx.com/news/id.69933/ti...
pagesix.com/2019/06/23/love-h...
allhiphop.com/news/teairra-ma...

[@machkaya4108]

Teairra lacked three things: consistency, humility and likability. Rihanna NEVER quit or faltered until she secured all her bags and popularity

[@machkaya4108]

@@kittensmitten3287 Very true. I'm Ugandan. The motherland. I loved my Carribean friends at university because they also understood that success was the only option. Cheers to that 🥂

[@johnathanlewis3155]

Thats NOT TRUE! Jay Z gave up on her because Rihannas career took off. Thats because Beyonce told LA Reid to watch out for Rihanna and THEN La Reid started putting more money into Rihanna and less into Teairra because there can “only be so many Black girls at the top” but helluva Yt women. She was done dirty and even tried to keep going but ppl didn’t listen to it. She didnt have the money or the backing any more. She did have “Sponsor” with Soulja Boy and that was a hit. I feel bad for her

[@rue3725]

@@johnathanlewis3155 actually Tierra didn't want to try pop. Rihanna was willing to switch up her sound. Same thing with Christina millian.

[@rue3725]

@@kittensmitten3287 Actually her island fan base didn't like that Rihanna turned pop and when she did rated R they thought she was a devil worshipper. Her white fan base and pop fans were responsible for her mainstream success. Hence why she incorporated her island sound with her new edgy pop sound. Yall weren't buying her first two island inspired albums and she was almost dropped from her label.

[@mariarodgers5387]

@@machkaya4108 only thing you mfs can't to is succeed in your own country.

[@rogerwalker2892]

As a barbadian who actually grew up literally 5 minutes from where Rihanna did and who admires what my island girl has gone on to accomplish and become, i never did quite understand why def jam couldn't just push both of them as opposed to pitting them against each other.

[@naomi.cannibal]

That’s my whole point! They acted like they had to choose one when they had the time manpower and money to support both

[@brittmar538]

@@kittensmitten3287 lol how do YOU know he was sleeping around? Cause of he said/she said?

[@sagittariusbeauty]

@@kittensmitten3287 Any proof that Beyonce did this or what?

[@brendastroud261]

@@southside-hornbaby5325 you are so right. They stay lying on Rihanna and hate to admit she actually has one of the most unique voices in music hence her 14#1’s and the longest charting album of a black female artist in history not to mention 2nd best selling global artist

[@miapia7229]

@@kittensmitten3287 Beyoncé is a Virgo ♍️, why am I not surprised at this? She was f**king Jay, and thought she had power. Beyoncé over looked Rih, and thought rihanna wouldn’t be the star that she is now.

[@OHSOTRENDY777]

Rihanna deserves all her success. Teairra is a very strong woman. She endured a lot of betrayal, humiliation and failure. A lot of people let her down. That was why she had so much anger in the show. It’s a wonder she’s still standing. All that trauma, I would be in a nut house.

[@naomi.cannibal]

me too, honestly

[@TravelWithKea]

Facts! Ray J and Princess Bs AND 50 Cent is blasting her and you know 50 ain’t got no filter. This woman is very strong, I wonder if she was black listed for some reason behind the scenes a quid pro type sitch.

[@bongirud]

So true.

[@jovonte11]

She’s still standing! They’ve taken her through the mud…but she still pushing!

[@cris_here]

No she doesn't.

[@fireponyyy]

I feel bad for Teairra. I’m sure it was extremely painful to mourn the loss of what could have been, the life she almost had. The shift her life took was probably very hard to accept and navigate back then. Especially with her mom falling ill and the general struggles of the teenage to young adult transition. To then watch her colleagues rise without her. It’s naturally difficult for most people to deal with. That is a hard hand to be dealt, without comparing it to anybody or anything. I would be angry and heartbroken as well.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Completely agree, I would be traumatized

[@wowso4]

Maybe she didn't want to sell her soul, the music industry is really dark it has nothing to do with talent. Rihanna was probably willing to do anything and was easier to control.

[@vergespierre4271]

@@wowso4 spot on

[@92You.]

Agreed

[@ThornyRoseV]

Nah she clearly is a narcissist. My life was ruined at 17 when I got a severe neurological disorder. I accepted it. I certainly will not be toxic and put other people in danger by driving drunk. There is no excuse for that.

[@cindicrose5128]

Let’s be honest. Rihanna’s determination and work ethic made her who she is. And coming from Barbados, what she’s accomplished is damn near a miracle. Not to mention, she’s constantly reinventing her sound and herself. T.Marie had a great voice but she was not unique or very like-able. Lots of people have talent. At the end of the day having purpose, consistency, the ability to learn and evolve, and incredible work ethic will trump basic talent. Period.

[@chenanigans]

Yea being honest Tierra is boring. My fave track and song of all time is an EDM song and it's by...Rihanna. That's what catapulted her into stardom. Her versatility, and flexibility. I'm not big into music at all anymore but I can't ever act like Rihanna didn't lure me in with her incredible ability to body every genre. She had her rock singles, her reggae, her hip hop, her pop, and even EDM and more. That girl said what's a box??? And she put her all her blood sweat and tiddies in each era lol. Literally cuz we've all seen ol girl tiddies lol. Anyway. Yea she didn't come to lose that's for sure. You can pretty as the day is long but you also gotta werk!!!

[@rashidakamara3775]

Exactly

[@TheSMILive-fk3sp]

Agreed.

[@shontagearlds4982]

Facts🙌

[@vibe2g4l45]

@@chenanigans Love this comment. Btw is your fave song We Found Love?

[@roberthightower1724]

A lot of y’all don’t know that it took a while for LA Reid and Def Jam to truly believe in Rihanna until her Loud era. She had to fight for a lot of her songs to become singles (which became no.1 hits) had to pay for her OWN music videos, fashion, hair, etc. for a while. Rihanna’s journey to the top was not a silver spoon as some people may think. She believed in herself when a lot of people didn’t. Rihanna had the determination and work ethic; sometimes that is what takes to reach that “next level”.

[@kingd7369]

She wouldn't have been signed at all if it weren't for Beyonce telling LA to sign her.

[@KingTheJim]

This is pure bullshit loool

[@imxel2193]

Not loud era it was the good girl gone bad era that pushed her to stardom. Umbrella is a hit to THIS DAY

[@paristhrone2546]

@@kingd7369 it was god. You love to downgrade peoples wins. She’s talented and better than you

[@kingd7369]

@@paristhrone2546 it was Beyonce. LA Reid has said it in interviews many times.

[@ambrusin4889]

This was devastating, for a person who had worked, made the connections for years and years, they just forget about her. Anyone would be depressed, anyone.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Yes this would be traumatizing

[@babygurljessie08]

Depressed, angry, confused, hurt, you name it. I know some may feel like she was unlikeable, but in hearing parts of her story, I get it and her. I always wanted her to win

[@erikm8372]

Thank you for this. I lost my job of twelve years, on top of other BS; COVID happened etc, had to move miles away… and ppl tell me to get happier and shit. Rude. As you say, someone works hard and makes connections, years and years. And then thrown out like waste basically. Or so I feel. Anyone would be depressed! I feel that!

[@ambrusin4889]

@@erikm8372 oh shit, I feel for you, I really do, must be rough as hell now. Day at a time, take it day at a time..and you are absolutely entitled to feel depressed , tired, anything. I hope better times will reach you soon!

[@wabuyirichard9439]

Land of dreams they say, what they leave out is the dreams can be snatched out right as fast as they hand them to you

[@miss20something33]

The fact that Rihanna was almost dropped off her label after her second album cuz it didn't sell well just blows my mind everytime, like who would've thought she would become the person we know n love today? got me thinking about all the artists we don't know that were dropped out in their beginning and the potential they had.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Exactly. And the fact that she was never dropped and went on to become huge- makes you wonder what Teairra could have done had she never been dropped

[@KRSonbe]

Actually, that wasn't true. Their were rumors that she was going to get dropped after the FIRST album due to "lukewarm sales", but Def Jam kept her around due to the two hit singles "Pon De Replay" (which peaked at #2 on the charts) and "If It's Lovin That You Want". The 2nd album did even better as it sold 7 million copies worldwide so Def Jam gave her a 3rd album instead of dropping her.

[@jasminehill6312]

I feel empathy for Teairra. It must be a major blow to her self-esteem and self-confidence to be on track to be on top and them dropped.

[@naomi.cannibal]

completely agree, I would be devastated

[@alvinsavage7701]

That’s life though. You may to start over. That music industry shady as hell. We hear about it all the time

[@ambrusin4889]

Must have been awful, absolutely awful..

[@ambrusin4889]

@@alvinsavage7701 but she worked so hard, so hard you all don`t even know.. much more than Rihanna, at the time, Rihanna was biracial, it was som. to do with it.

[@tsjoey25]

@@ambrusin4889 Rihanna’s father is biracial not her

[@dahtcrazychiik]

Unpopular opinion: Teirra would have not been Rihanna, they had same start but that doesn’t mean they’d have a similar career. It’s definitely more than just the support of the label, we must remember the politics of the music industry.

[@alexandrahendrick4352]

True. I think some people have an it factor, and Rihana has that. But both gorgeous and talented. Rihana may have better work ethics and drive, and that it factor.

[@along58]

I think Tierra is more talented than Rihanna but she’s her own worst enemy

[@keyshawnjohnson1313]

And the fans we have to care and nobody ever cared for teirra😂

[@kymberlipomerants5520]

@@saundra282 well she is in great company with the volatile nature, and those libations contributed to it all.

[@kymberlipomerants5520]

@@along58 I think that they are BOTH equally talented, just different situations.

[@tanare2552]

The music industry is brutal. Hands down.

[@naomi.cannibal]

💯

[@newname3021]

For certain people…. Then you have “artists” like Selena Gomez who don’t write their songs and can’t sing yet is famous and gets their songs on billboard. The industry is ugly but it is very hard on WOC

[@jenc925]

I do feel bad for Teairra Marie. She was so close to having her dreams come true in the music industry. It's easy for a 3rd party to criticize her but that person was never in her shoes. I'm sure Teairra wishes she could change things but unfortunately she can't. I hope she can be happy and love herself.

[@CHPInc-fg5mo]

The thing about Rihanna is this: she's not a raw musical prodigy (Alicia, Beyonce, Taylor) and she also wasn't a trained and groomed machine (Britney, Miley, Bieber) but she had the drive and will to not stop no matter what. She even paid her own money for videos and almost went broke. She's a star in the modern age for a reason. Her fashion, attitude and beauty made her a household name, the music was honestly second to her persona. Madonna was the same.

[@Black0bsidian]

Agree!!!

[@coolida23511]

She's overrated.

[@jilliancymone]

@@coolida23511 she is not overrated

[@monchelmitchell]

Agreed by now she is peaked, now she's a billionaire and mother. She's no longer needed in music. Because her drive & focus won't be there. For her to come back fenty beauty has to fail or rocky has to leave her

[@emmanuellaalali743]

@@monchelmitchell so for her to come back fenty has to fail ???

[@Juspeachy13]

I remember when Tierra Marie, Rihanna and Neyo all came out at the same time. They definitely pushed Tierra Marie’s music more back then. But I think that Rihanna’s success come from the fact that she just had a stronger work ethic. Some people are like that. They never make excuses. They never complain. They just push through, and secretly write down everything they want to accomplish. Rihanna had more drive.

[@MrEOM41]

She has better producers

[@Juspeachy13]

@@MrEOM41 I completely agree.

[@Juspeachy13]

@@user-ls2se6ze6x She chose better songs and took control of her own image. She also did significant humanitarian work outside of singing. She exercised more control over her fate, in my opinion. I never said she was a better singer lol.

[@vibe2g4l45]

@@user-ls2se6ze6x you don’t become a multi platinum selling artist, music and fashion icon, philanthropist, billionaire business mogul by sitting on your ass all day. Rihanna had to work her ass off to get to where she is today. Of course she had help along the way she has a great team behind her but you are NOT going to disrespect and discredit her, Rihanna deserves every bit of success that came her way whether you like her or not. Ignorant haters like you need to get a life and do something instead of spreading negativity on the internet.

[@vibe2g4l45]

@@user-ls2se6ze6x I literally said that she had help along the way and she has a great team around her can you not read?? This doesn’t mean that she didn’t work hard to get to where she is now. Plenty of artists in the past have had huge machines behind them yet still failed in the end. Dunno why you felt the need to discredit her are you that bored and miserable?

[@kidzeus2433]

I’m from the Caribbean myself (Jamaica) so I am not surprised that Rihanna became successful... When you’re from the Caribbean you don’t have that much opportunity so you have nothing to lose and Rihanna knows this because she had it rough growing up and that’s why she gave it her all.

[@imonlyjustsaying4395]

Being from another country ..you just have an actually drive and motivation than those..that are from here ...

[@kidzeus2433]

@@imonlyjustsaying4395 My point exactly... People from 1st world countries have it so easy so they get complacent... Immigrants are the reason as to why America is so wealthy right now.

[@PrincessAuguste]

Exactly

[@tiag298]

You other are highly delusional and mis educated about African Americans. But always speaking incorrectly, says alot.

[@tyrellellison]

I honestly respect what you said. I just believe it just wasn't her time. Because coming up in Detroit....let me tell you it's not easy at all.

[@norijean3279]

Beyonce saw no threat in Rihanna, who seemed like a simple girl from Barbados, so she let Jay Z promote her. Rihanna made the most of that chance, and elevated herself to the level Beyonce would never expect. Teairra was more of Jay Z's type, so Beyonce didn't want her around. That's why she was dropped so suddenly.

[@mitchelleonyango2809]

I really agree to that, Beyonce saw a threat in Teairra

[@jamaicanbkslimaz]

@@mitchelleonyango2809 she said NO threat.

[@classicstorm]

@@jamaicanbkslimaz In Rihanna read it again...

[@LEA-yr7bb]

Absolutely. Rihanna’s voice was annoying asf back then. I use to love Tierra she was so pretty and had a beautiful voice

[@handsomemahlambi]

Did she personally tell you this Maybe she actually saw her potential Is it too hard to believe that a female could possibly see something great in another female???? Does it always have to be catty??? The white media pins them against each other bc they were already getting rid of the R&B sound and wanted the ladies to fight it out so they don’t get to the level they currently at, and they arrived there bc they did not take the bait like fans did and did not involve themselves in media affairs These 2 ladies are very different in style and sound, maybe Beyoncé saw someone who can carve their own name without copying her Maybe everything is not a competition to be on top but these ladies are tearing down barriers put in the industry for Black women

[@aliamichelle_]

What is meant for you can not be stolen. Rihanna earned every bit of what she has. The stars ✨ usually work in your favor. Its up to you to stay in sync

[@naomi.cannibal]

A word 👌🏾

[@truthdude8849]

Yes it can be stolen

[@jerrynospringer2516]

Girl

[@kenya9549]

🙌🙌🙌100%

[@kerrihayes1338]

Whew 🔥

[@rue3725]

Rihanna blew up because she went pop and wasn't afraid to switch her sound. Most African American female artists stick to the same genetic urban music. Rihanna was versatile.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Yes Rihanna has never been afraid to switch it up and it served her very well

[@JadedMuse2]

She's very diverse in her music... keeps switching it up. 💯

[@panchooceano7717]

I mean it's easy to do that when she sings exactly like the demos her label prepares for her 💀 no new vocal arragment, no nothing, you can check our S&M and What's My Name Demos from Ester Dean 😭

[@deepthroatthemskittles7213]

@@panchooceano7717 lies. Of course there are going to be songs where she won't change cause some maybe don't need changing but there other demos like consideration for example sza solo version sounds completely different from rihanna's.

[@21stcenturylady15]

I thought the same thing!

[@briannaburton7933]

Rihanna didn't steal anything she worked hard for it. It's not Rihanna's fault she has talent and commitment to her craft and she has grown SO MUCH since then.

[@leahvictoria7447]

Not only that but I remember they over played Tierra when I was a kid while Rihanna’s songs were different every time they were on the radio. Pon De Replay, SOS, We Ride. Not only that but I was so captivated by Rihanna’s beauty. I’ve never seen anyone like Rihanna before, and because she has rare beauty traits is why she was as big as she is. Don’t get me wrong Tierra is beautiful and as talented, but she looked like everyone else back then. Rihanna didn’t.

[@Giselle_Glam594]

Nope! Bey was hatin on Teairra

[@Jordan-kj8xu]

Facts !

[@deshon1499]

@Ms.Jackson yall really think Bey is some jealous person.. when u hear nothing but her being supportive to women.. Rihanna had something different .. Beyonce has too much talent to be jealous.. she killed Ashanti's career while Ashanti was on top.. let's be real

[@fizzyfuzz5878]

Rihanna just has IT. The look, the charisma. She has it all.

[@NaeNae23]

No-one can almost be Rhianna Tia can only be Tia. Our destiny is what we make it. How many times was Kanye rejected as a rapper before he got his shot? Perseverance, tenacity, rwsilence to rejection, vision and drive will always get you to your destination.

[@mandybae2524]

Truth

[@shawnsmith4518]

Precisely… No one can almost be who someone else already is. That’s typical thinking.

[@itinavarait]

Who gave her the nickname Tia lol

[@lonagwegwe]

Thank you 🙏

[@deenad3562]

Actually, your destiny is your destiny. Some ppl get there with no work at all. 💫

[@miaaahhh9166]

I actually feel so bad for her she didn’t deserve to have things go downhill like this that’s so sad 😭

[@empathicstarseed8860]

I agree. People in the comments keep trashing her for no reason

[@Rayaann]

@@empathicstarseed8860 yeah she definitely deserves empathy. People are saying "Rhianna had it" that's why she was dropped but i blame beyonce and the cruel behavior they displayed after practically ditching her over a phone call.

[@empathicstarseed8860]

@Soft Aesthetics ok. No one is literally putting her in the trash🤦🏾‍♀️, but they are talking ish 😒.

[@giftyfarcarthy9644]

I think she ain’t on Rihanna level cuz she ain’t wanna sell her soul and riri did 💁🏾‍♀️

[@jamangel]

Right

[@tylerkochman1007]

To be honest, Rihanna was not even destined for Rihanna level stardom. She managed to (through savvy, charisma, luck, hard work, and other factors) far outperform what success she was set up for

[@TheZieglerm]

Thank you for sharing Teairra's story, hopeful she is able to find some stability and peace. We need the story on Amerie and Beyonce!

[@naomi.cannibal]

I posted it!! Maybe like a month or so ago

[@TheZieglerm]

@@naomi.cannibal thank you! I'm a new follower so I hadn't checked (apologies). Loving your channel and thank you for your hard work!

[@chrystim892]

No we don’t.

[@SwissPRODMashups]

I honestly feel like Teairra would have never gotten half of Rihanna's success, even if her label had promoted her more. Rihanna has that special tone in her voice that makes her recognizable among thousands. People often criticized her lack of involvement when it comes to writing her own songs. I didn't care about that. I was just blown away by her incredible musical ear and how she would always choose and build the right song for her. Back in 2006 Umbrella ended up on the table of so many major artists who didn't believe in the song's potential. As soon as the drum loop kicked in Rihanna knew the song would be huge. I think that musical ear is definitely the main reason she got so many hits over the years. But above all, she had always been a businesswoman. She knew how to sell her brand and what the general public was expecting from a pop star. It is no surprise to see how well her lingerie and beauty brands are doing.

[@destinixshakur]

I agree

[@Native_tay]

I can agree with this. Rihanna always knew how to choose. Weather it be a song to sing, a fabric to incorporate or the next make up product. She always knew what business decisions to make to differentiate her brand in saturated markets

[@Orokamono_ymiru]

Rihanna wasn’t always like this lol. Especially when she first came out. Rih Rih had to fight A LOT, to make sure she had her chance. I’m happy for her success and it’s well deserved. But Teairra could have been successful too if she was more dedicated/open minded about her music, and if she was backed up by big named artist and producers. Like how Jay and Beyoncé did for Rihanna. And it seems like they just gave up on her, and she gave up on herself. In the music industry it’s really who you know and how much drive you have. I do hope she gets her life together. This is actually sad asf

[@daealexalaurel3588]

it's so weird how every singer has to have at least some involvement in their songs (via writing or producing) like not every singer has to be music producers or song writers. same with dancing. like people really gave dua lipa shit for her dancing. i've noticed that this tend to be more directed towards women. it seems to me thar women singers have be a triple threat or something. the men could just barely hold a note live and be praised, while a woman could just breathe wrong and just get roasted.

[@selalewis9189]

I completely agree with you. I remember the day I first heard "Pon De Replay," and I immediately liked her voice. It was so distinctive.

[@lakhemvane]

It's always so astonishing to me how the industry can only push one artist at a time...

[@umichgal1]

lack mentality is a bitch.

[@bryanlinares6600]

We’ll money… duh

[@KC-dx6en]

More Weird and unfair than anything. This is why Im PRO Independency !!!

[@puisanosane]

Rihanna said consistency and determination and never looked back... she went to America and secured all possible bags. I LOVE HER SO MUCH

[@beautifulyoung23]

I always felt that Bey co-signed Riri because Teairra was someone who was in the lane that she (Beyonce) was in at that time. Teairra had the great vocals and was able to dance. Riri was less of a talent vocally and dancing wise in my opinion and was in a different lane sonically. But I do think Rihanna was more hungry, and eager to do her best. Like the saying goes, hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work!

[@naomi.cannibal]

I agree w this

[@fullonlove-2237]

I so agree with the Beyonce part. Teaira could've rivaled her. However I do think she might be a little lazy

[@Giselle_Glam594]

Facts! Tee Tee was coming 4 that crown & bey got highly insecure & also jay loves them young & beautiful, thats how he got bey! Riri was competition 2 nobody back then

[@Giselle_Glam594]

@@fullonlove-2237 Tee Tee should've kept going & made them all look stupid! She already had beyonce hating on her! rihanna is a billionaire, bey still isn't 😂

[@ShaneCM]

They gave Rihanna better songs and producers. She’s not really a writer or producer meaning someone has to make the decision who gets what songs. They always wanted to promote Rihanna more even if they lie about it.

[@tonimichelle8401]

I feel empathy for Teairra's experiences. No one lives a life completely free of self-sabotage, but this girl was also beat up by life. I hope she finds longlasting healing.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Yes I hat she went through must be very hard to heal from

[@EllisonIra]

What did she go through?

[@covegirl06]

@@EllisonIra nothing but the same thing that happens to every other artist in music business. Labels drop you once they see you not generating the amount of sales they anticipated. Some of these artists just don’t have the drive or determination. Cause why are you a singer on Love & Hip Hop and doing everything BUT trying to promote your new music 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@covegirl06]

@@xMUNECAx That’s the music industry for ya tho. Just about every music artist on a record label has thee exact same story. Her story isn’t unique at all. And Let’s stop downplaying Tierras looks. Young Tierra was GORGEOUS! Apparently LA Reid thought so as well because he initially liked Tierra over Rihanna.. Nothing particularly stood out about Tierras musical sound or persona. I think Beyoncé saw it before he did. I think LA Reid would’ve STILL ended up dropping her eventually. And Cardi B was a whole minstrel show out here. She looked a hot ass mess before getting her teeth fixed and style upgraded! Even with her light skin, no one looked at her and thought she was beautiful lol. But what Cardi DID have was a personality that stood out. What Cardi DID have was consistent determination to prove people wrong. And say what you want about her, Cardi actually has bops 🤷🏽‍♀️. Can we say the same about Tierra? Even K.Michell (a dark skin woman) was able to use L&HH to elevate her music career. Tierra just never had hit songs. I don’t know if it’s because her vocal style just doesn’t do a song justice, or they always write crappy songs for her or what. But none of her songs are catchy or memorable to me 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@covegirl06]

@@xMUNECAx K.Michelle was on L&HH when VSOP came out, and that song got plenty of radio play, so I’m not sure what you’re talking about. I honestly had never heard of a K.Michelle til I saw her on L&HH. Point is, she was putting out music WHILE on the show. I brought up Tierras looks because I kept coming across comments saying Tierra career flatlined because she wasn’t light skin or exotic looking enough. I thought you were implying the same thing. Apologies. There’s different types of singers. Some that have ok singing voices (Tierra), some that can SANG lol (Whitney Houston) and some that can’t sing at all but has catchy songs and a distinguishable voice that helps them stand out (Rihanna). Tierra was on Def Jam record label when she first came out. Who the hell was writing her songs back then because even with her being on a major record label, all of her songs still sounded hella mediocre and forgettable. You may be a fan of Cardi B ratchet ness (I’m not either), but the point is, you gotta have SOMETHING that makes people gravitate to you. Be it catchy songs that people can sing and dance to, impeccable stage presence, an engaging fun personality that people can relate to, a unique sense of fashion and style. SOMETHING. Tierra, unfortunately, didn’t possess any of those qualities. And maybe you should watch the TV show UnSung lol. Full of wonder hit wonders with similar stories to Tierra Marie.

[@BKME19]

No one was almost anyone. Society likes who they like and labels push out who they push out. What’s meant to be will be.

[@cancervisionary1509]

What’s meant to be.. will be.. yes: but the truth of the matter is Teaiira’s first album out performed Rihanna’s. She was actually being groomed to be their new headline star… but she subsequently was dropped from the label on her prom night… and they then turned focused on Rihanna. This move had nothing to do with fans… it was political, it was business… and it ended up being a smart business move. But nevertheless the expectation.. was that Teairra be the star… based on #s alone.

[@prettynerd4779]

No, its about who gets the marketing push real talk... They pushed Beyonce over Letoya when Letoya was way more popular and preferred. Beyonce over Kelly too. You cannot convince me EVER that jhene aiko is more talented than Jasmine Sullivan, Amerie , etc.. NOPE..Most of these women ( except Beyonce) are Auto tune singers.. they dont have real talent...Rihanna got that marketing push.. Amerie, Teirra Mari, and Rihanna came out at the same time and truth Amerie was the most talented but I have a feeling she wasnt willing to " get down" like some of the other girls were. You would be surprised at how they use and abuse these young girls.

[@Shae_3]

“labels push out who they push out.” Ummm…..you answered and contradicted yourself. That’s not a what’s meant to be will be because labels have a lot to do with it

[@dawb86]

@@prettynerd4779 I appreciate you bringing up Amerie, another one who many felt got this treatment. I've been saying it for years now; the industry likes for there to always be two Black "it" R&B girls at a time. Everyone else is treated just slightly above also-ran. I don't know if you're old enough to remember the whole India.Arie controversy where they kept nominating her for all these awards and giving them not to other artists but SPECIFICALLY to Alicia Keys when both their debut albums came out in 2001. See, Aaliyah's third and final album came out that year too. All great records but Aaliyah was clearly about to be the other "it" girl in R&B and would have probably taken half of those wins. After her tragic passing, they just started throwing all the awards to Alicia. THEN Ashanti came out. Ashanti and Alicia were the genres top two until Beyonce, who'd been groomed for solo stardom from the start, dropped her first album without the group. Around the time Alicia got with Swizz and the Chris Brown/Rihanna controversy happened, the next transferral of power occurred. It's pretty much been a stronghold for Beyonce/Rihanna ever since other than times when they took leaves of absence or when Bey was having children. In the meantime, we've watched the likes of everyone from Elle Varner, Keri Hilson, Dawn Richard, Amerie, Tinashe, Jazmine Sullivan, Keyshia Cole, K. Michelle and more not get as much attention in an effort to keep everyone focused on the two great "shining stars" that are Bey and Rih...

[@carriesims9325]

Because of Fraudulent ACTIVITY behind the scenes. That's the point

[@Danny-ii6jn]

Rihanna is a good example of how far the look and the personality can take you because it took quite some time for her to be as good as she is now.

[@quinn7779]

If personality and looks was all it takes then everyone with personality and looks would be Rihanna. And they’re not. So.

[@ambrusin4889]

@@quinn7779 many could be, if given the chance.

[@quinn7779]

@@ambrusin4889 so Rihanna’s the only one who got the chance for the past 20 years since her debut ? Oh.

[@ambrusin4889]

@@quinn7779 nah, not the only one, but talking about this situation here, there were not many at the time, never has been many, considering how incredible singers black community have, I think there should be much more room for singers, performers, who are black. Average black person sings and uses her or his voice like a champion ,damn, many are in the level of trained opera singers, I know a few, ( just go to nearest church and listen to the the great gospel singers, like, wow, and I am not even religious, but those singers there.. ) some of them are better than many white or any other famous singers, but if your skin is very dark, too dark, it is almost game over right there, just because of that, colourism too. Profession to be a singer should be choose by skill, which this community has, not by color. Of course I also understand that everything is business and it is about matter of a supply and a demand, and america is , the population in there are mostly white, so..whatever makes them money the most..

[@quinn7779]

@@ambrusin4889 You're just trying to find loopholes to reduce Rihanna to personality and looks and its not working. That's unfortunate for you. You have now gone on a separate tangent. Rihanna has the talent and creativity to be where she is today. If she was just personality and looks then thats what she would be. She wouldnt be global phenomenon

[@simpleplanfan011]

Rihanna fought and clawed her way to the top. No one can be destined for that career unless they truly work hard.

[@huldahseikon3946]

Amerie was one of my favorite artists. I'm shocked she didn't make it too far either, but now we know why.

[@BlasianGoddessTM77]

@Himynameis Aren’t you a Karen huh? 😳

[@aniyahazami140]

@@jujubee6030 i don’t really think anything shady was going on. everyone already knew beyoncé from destiny’s child in the 90’s then she solidified herself as being a great entertainer along with having great and powerful vocals during the dangerously in love era. and this is coming from one of the biggest amerie fans. they did amerie dirty but you cannot downplay beyoncé’s talents because she’s more popular😭.

[@preciousgem84]

@@jujubee6030 Uh oh the 🐝🐝🐝 hive coming for you, but you spoke the truth. Half of the commenters said they grew up during the early 2000s, so they don't know that the music biz is shady and in order to be successful like L.A. Reid, Beyonce, and Jay-Z, they all are pretty much known for shady business practices. Beyonce is known for stealing Amerie's sound, the proof is in the pudding. Amerie's debut album came out before Beyonce's debut solo album, Beyonce used that Washington D.C. sound in a few of her songs which Amerie used first because Amerie was from D.C.

[@theone-gs9be]

@@preciousgem84 lies and more lie's

[@piaaadah]

Wait this is Amerie? Ohhhh

[@Scaryaries]

This is why I am rooting for Normani she has too much talent to let it go to waste and it’s not fair that people way more mediocre are being promoted more and getting Grammys. She really needs to hire a better marketing team asap.

[@cierracarr771]

This!!

[@beewest5704]

Normani needs another team. They are not making the best decisions for her. Where is her album?

[@AnAdorableWombat]

Norman can dance. That is it. She is a basic singer and too mediocre. She is a cute girl but she doesn't make herself stand out. Her songs are generic.

[@naomi.cannibal]

She’s very talented but I agree she is going to have to find her sound if she wants to make it. Too many girls are putting out generic pop and she needs to and has the potential to stand out

[@siejeakimebell2369]

@@AnAdorableWombat She has no Star power at all

[@VikkiTG]

I love Teairras voice I would have loved to see both of them make it honestly… I’m a huge Rihanna fan but I think Teairra is very talented and I would have liked to see more of her…

[@MizAlexandria]

Rihanna was in her own lane from the beginning. Timing was on her side as well because of the reggae pop vibes was poppin. She brought an authentic sound, great energy and of course beautiful. As she grew her music evolved the way she navigated both the music and business side is a testament to her work ethic and drive.

[@kenzo7513]

but she aint no reggae artist.copy some??/😅😅

[@AmajeOfficial]

Rihanna’s destiny was already paved in stone. She knew what she wanted, was not confused. She has so much support from her Family and everyone believed in her because she believed in herself. Tearra meant to go the path she went down because of her own fate. Can’t blame anyone for that. Look at the empire Rihanna has built, that speaks for itself. People around the world simply Loves Rihanna.

[@empressme8681]

You had me then lost me… smh Disappointement by Name

[@babou5694]

Okayyyy💯💯💯. It’s always someone not putting the work in blaming someone else for their short coming. Tierra need to get some several seats smh . It’s 2022 her ass already too late.

[@jamaicanbkslimaz]

@@empressme8681 can’t spell?

[@Giselle_Glam594]

Nope! Beyonce was hatin on Teairra

[@Giselle_Glam594]

@@babou5694 why was beyonce hatin on her????

[@MrMoviemaverick]

I think there is probably more than meets the eye with Teairra Mari's story. The entertainment industry is so shady and obviously took advantage of a woman with clear mental health and drinking issues. I definitely wish her the best and hope she finds good people around her to get her to find some the right help she so desperately needs and nurture her god given talent rather than exploit/encourage her. Great video btw! Rooting for her to still win!

[@naomi.cannibal]

I agree. There’s probably so much other stuff behind the scenes that we’ll never know the truth about

[@KrissyGFromtheD]

@@naomi.cannibal And if TM ever gets the courage to share the WHOLE story the industry will find a way to make her appear crazy and delusional 😢

[@leandrasolomon5009]

Yeah lets give her some encourgement

[@MrMoviemaverick]

@@KrissyGFromtheD FACTS!

[@MissCellanious1]

Um I think she got those issues because she was taken advantage of and didnt having the advantage Rihanna had

[@Adovian_]

Rihanna arguably was the start of modern artists being valued for their looks and "aura" BEFORE their talent. She once publicly said the bad girl image is an act. By then she had label/public support so it was a WRAP

[@MickeyAndMore]

It wasn’t an “act” that makes it sound fake she was expressing herself

[@cressapellom4205]

@@MickeyAndMore seemed like an act to me, she made a whole 360 in turned into this "BAD GAL", ITS ALL AN ACT.

[@marra4174]

Labels do that all the time. Why you think Saweetie went so hard on being the “icy girl” after she went viral? It’s all an image. When you’re mainstream, you look and act how they want you to. It’s the same reason Nicki Minaj had that pop era back in 2010.

[@jamangel]

RIGHT

[@jamangel]

@@MickeyAndMore it was fake lmao

[@realtalkwithrissamonroe2054]

I met the two at an invite launch in New York at the start of both of their careers. It’s easy to see how Rihanna took off like a rocket. She literally was a star on sight. Her and Ne-Yo. Both were professional and drew you In. She wins the heart of every soon-to-be fan. T-Marie was…….. let’s just say the Diva no one wants to meet again. Very arrogant and snotty

[@deejayfikes]

I've heard this before.

[@Shynestarlight2013]

And that’s why she never made it she thought she was all that 😢

[@Thisisbrobe]

Word! I honestly think Rihanna’s personality is a key part of her success.

[@Kevin-rg3yc]

Teairra isn’t the only one who has dealt with this, the music industry is full of aspiring musicians who have everything to be superstars but there’s always 10 more people behind you who have the same potential as you but can execute it differently and the underlying politics can be attach to this as well many executives using their internalized bigotry beliefs through many artists and the general public having those same beliefs as well. It’s really unfortunate but I do hope terrari finds peace in her life and I’m happy to hear she doesn’t have or have jealously or angrier to Rihanna bc if it was me (knowing how much of a jealous and envious person I am) the word bitter would be the understatement I would have if I was in her shoes

[@naomi.cannibal]

I would be bitter as shit. Like truly Teairra is a better person that I could have ever been and she deserves a lot of credit for that. I would love her to take on a more chill R&B sound now if she’s going to keep music, I feel like it would suit her well

[@deenad3562]

@@naomi.cannibal chill sound, yesss!! 😎

[@daradiant1]

Not according to this publist that I know personally. Teairra problem was she wanted to follow behind dudes instead of focusing on her career. That's real reason why she got dropped.

[@sunflowerrose]

@@daradiant1 I heard that she fought a lot and that's why she got dropped. That she was a troubled child

[@angeltren345]

Not too many people would say that they are a jealous and envious person, that would show bitterness, towards another person's success. It takes a lot of courage, for you to say this. It shows humility. However, one should consider that you don't know what they have done, to get there. A famous rapper once said it's not about your talent, it's about playing the game. Ask yourself, would you sign your name in blood and is it worth it, in the end.

[@eloquent3pimp]

rihanna was versatile!!!!! thats what she has over many artists. nobody can come close to her ability to do pop rnb reggae etc

[@21stcenturylady15]

That’s the honest truth.

[@mandybae2524]

Facts! She was versatile AF! Unlike tierra Mari

[@bruhvibes5941]

She was consistent and knew how to change genres without being alienating. Rihanna made a good Pop/R&B album (Good Girl Gone Bad) and changed to EDM Electropop very well with Loud and Talk that Talk. Her discography is as smooth as Taylor Swifts in my opinion.

[@RoseGoldRonE]

I remember seeing them on mtv together, interviewing before any of their music came out and you could tell Rihanna was different. Tiarra didn’t steal her career, Rihanna just had a natural comfort on camera that Tiarra didn’t and Rihanna’s music was better. I missed that pun…

[@sophieloves7092]

I'm glad u changed the title, much more fitting. A very well put together video!! I love Rhianna and I didn't know most of what u dug up 👏👏 Nice job!

[@rainealogan6068]

Rihanna has always been the all around Girl. Rihanna beauty, Regae music, Culture music ,R&B , Pop. I believe the industry wanted to not be stuck in the box. They wanted elevation, Fresh Air. And Rihanna was and is that Artist Today.

[@sunnydelight5255]

Nope they wanted her in the box when she cut her hair for umbrella La Reid admitted he was upset and nervous.

[@PassportBrothasWearingWeave]

@@sunnydelight5255 smh wow that’s crazy

[@myballsitchsomethingfierce6319]

@@sunnydelight5255Artist sell an image and lifestyle change your hair and you change the image some have done this and lost careers.

[@pndgetsmewetter]

@@sunnydelight5255 and it’s crazy because cutting her hair was the best thing she could have done. Rihanna said she always wanted to make music that’s not all innocent and sweet but her label didn’t want that when she first came out

[@briannalee1998]

Rihanna has the most beautiful eyes! Always loved her distinct voice and style, but Teairra is a very underrated talent who definitely deserved better.

[@ashnaseanchloe4140]

Teairra is wayyyy prettier please

[@Frazierc1990]

@@ashnaseanchloe4140 I think so too

[@vibe2g4l45]

@@ashnaseanchloe4140 I disagree

[@erikaamir82]

I think Teairra is prettier too

[@ogechukwuosuagwu9908]

Finally someone sees the truth! And y'all know damn well that y'all don't really think Tierra is prettier. You're just trying to downplay the effect that colorism has in the industry. Even Bey isn't exempt.

[@y2klove581]

For me Rhianna has that same vibe as like the current it girls of today (lily rose depp, Alexa Demi, Jennie kim) they just have that confidence that draws attention like it seems natural and it makes me want to gain so much confidence

[@mayadabest]

Rihanna did not steal Teairra's career. I will never forget that era. I remember when I used, to watch Bet and MTV and see Rihanna's Pon de Replay and If It's loving That You Want. Getting, played ONLY at 2 am. I used to be like damn who is this girl she's so talented, they should play her music she's dope. Meanwhile, Teairra's " Make Her Feel" was being played 24/7 on the radio and television. Rihanna worked hard to get where she's at today stop playing with HER!

[@kurkdurks6123]

Rihanna is Rihanna, nobody is like her. She earned her way to the top and has stolen nothing from anyone 🤣 apart from our hearts.

[@kiwichill4820]

She sold her soul to get to the top

[@themindhelp9584]

You cheesy mf🤣🤣🤣 made me laugh and shit🤣🤣

[@milanihall8698]

@@xMUNECAx Rihanna has always had a strong work ethic. Stop playing with her

[@cressapellom4205]

@@milanihall8698 Chile please...

[@jakyilahrivera700]

@@xMUNECAx girl stfu that’s not what happend Tierra didn’t take it seriously so j zay pushed Rihanna

[@odilejones9129]

Let’s be honest it was Rihanna’s beauty that set her apart to the label. Absolutely it was combined with her work ethic and drive. But also Rihanna is next level gorgeous even at 16 and those early clips you showed o them performing together you can’t take your eyes off her So if you’re a label person you’re thinking “this is a person who we’d have no problem getting brand deals for which equals more visibility and more money for us.” Even if she wasn’t a performer she easily could have been a model. AND Rihanna has ambition. That’s what Beyoncé picked up on. Not even just her looks when Rihanna performs she makes sure eyes are on her. Remember when she was releasing an album a year in the mid 2010s? Rihanna works hard even with Fenty she goes above and beyond. You combine her looks with that mentality it’s sorted.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Rihanna is extremely hardworking, and not just as a musician but in general. Because we’ve seen her carry that same drive to her other businesses and succeed at them too

[@odilejones9129]

@@naomi.cannibal exactly that’s why I said it may be her looks that gave her an advantage but her work ethic kept her there. Also I watched the full performance of lose my breath they all did after I watched this. Rihanna stands out in that by a clear mile. Tiara and Amerie are good but they seem a bit nervous? Rihanna has confidence and charisma. She’s attacking the choreography with attitude and style. It’s not about having the best voice it’s about having stage presence and she has that in spades.

[@alkvirjkinta2987]

Her looks as if the other girl wasn't gorgeous, i definitely know beauty plays a part, yet, that's 100% not what makes Rihanna, Rihanna. She had big dreamers since a child, and went after them at a very young age by believing in her abilities, there's even a video of her speaking to existence that she will become one of the biggest artist or something like that, the girl manifested her dreams that even if no one saw her beauty, she would still be where she is.

[@sbrooks904]

She was not looked at as next level gorgeous when she came out.

[@sunnydelight5255]

@@paulagriffithpaulag2 She didn’t get better she chose better

[@ha6464]

This one memory I randomly have just sums up Tierra Marie for me and I completely get why she bombed and someone as cool, unique, and talented as Rihanna is now an icon. I remember being like 10 years old, watching TV in Canada. They had this big event where Jay Z came to Toronto and they interviewed him live. He came on, sat on one side of the couch. He introduced Rihanna and she sat on the other side. He introduced Tierra Marie and she came on the stage and squeezed awkwardly onto the edge side next to him, instead of sitting in the middle like a normal person. And she spent the rest of interview trying to be cold to Rihanna. Lol.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Why does even the mental image just seem a little cringy lmao

[@DudeEM]

I saw that Destiny’s Child Tribute performance only just after Rhianna released “Pon de Replay.” You can’t take your eyes off her. She was a rapidly rising star without making too much of an effort. To be be an entertainment industry Titan, talent is not enough. Star quality and a magnetic personality have to blend themselves in as well.

[@JasmineAvril]

Grew up in this era and listen to both (Teirra’s album still slaps). I don’t think Teirra’s attitude would have allowed her to have what Rihanna has today. Also, Rihanna was more POP from the start meaning there was no need for her to cross over, Teirra was hip hop/R&B.

[@fancydrew1250]

It wouldn't be too far fetched to say that this very situation is why Teirra's attitude is so eff'd up in the first place!! Failure changes some people and in the worst of ways!!

[@corcor1122]

Pop? Her first two albums were almost completely reggae, dance hall and calypso inspired. She didn't even release a pop single until S.O.S, which still could be argued as being new wave due to it heavily sampling Tainted Love by Depeche Mode. Rihanna's roots have always been Carribean music, not Pop.

[@JasmineAvril]

@@corcor1122 I agree with the SOUND, but that doesn’t negate that she was a pop artist from the beginning. Pon de Replay was on every station, not just the hip hop, reggae or pop stations.

[@jadajackson9163]

Fancy Drew i sorta agree with you what a smack in the face to get that type of call on prom day a day u will never forget and it probably replay in her mind from time to time.

[@samoanbiscuit8795]

@@jadajackson9163 Rihanna dropped out of school and got her GED. Her first single went to #2, her second to #36, then she went back into the studio to record her second album. Teairra Mari was still going to high school and going to prom instead of promoting her singles. Her first single went to #35, her her second and third failed to chart on the Hot 100. Is this really the person who “could’ve had Rihanna’s career?” I don’t think so. Talent aside (I think she is talented), she didn’t have the drive or the tenacity, and it showed. Rihanna is a huge star now, but people thought she was a flash in the pan until Loud. Even GGGB album era people thought each hit single was a fluke and her last hit, until the next one. She was seen as the lesser in her relationship with Chris Brown, just check the BET awards where they performed at the same awards show. They made such a big deal out of him compared to her. Look at them now. Sure he gets work, but he’s clearly not on her level commercially.

[@esss3722]

I fell in love with Rihanna the beast with Unfaithful!!! She worked hard AF to get where she is. Her voice is unique, her catalog is insane. Shes relatable and very likable! She also was very hands on with many aspects of her career all of that matters a great deal

[@kenzo7513]

unique? she an autotune princess . her voice wasnt real. TF u talking bout unique. i glad she got the caribbean flag flying but she cant sing. she had to work for it and life tends to reward those who push thru.

[@esss3722]

@@kenzo7513 Move around with that bitter bs! Its MY opinion f**k what you think. UNIQUE like I said ✌🏽

[@jeshurunhazelton7789]

Wat they say I can't see it

[@elegantempress1395]

How is she relatable? Because she curses and acts “savage” 🥴

[@nikitakumi3697]

Sorry but are you aware Rihanna literally cyberbullyed her fan for no reason on Twitter, uses child labour for her Fenty beauty and has never written any of her songs for you to say she works hard? Pple just dont know this

[@Gabriellaella23]

I used to LOVE her song Sponsor. I loved her voice and listened to it all the time. I wondered what happened to her and then she ended up on LHH. Wish her career was bigger because she did have talent.

[@alisamariaangelsanddemons4309]

Since I’ve been a kid music, singing, and dancing is like air to me can’t live without it. I honestly thought I knew all the artists and what was going on with the main artist back in 2000s but I didn’t really know this whole story so thanks for posting this!

[@naomi.cannibal]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@moniwilderness1936]

Rihanna was and is the star! Nobody can steal your career! TM was caught up in drama that took her focus! Rihanna had the entire Caribbean behind her so she automatically had foot over T.

[@sunnydelight5255]

Lol Rihanna never had the Caribbean behind her. I’m in the Caribbean and never ever heard a Rih song blasting until Work. Y’all have to stop with all these strange conclusions. Most Caribbean people do not like pop music. Some do many don’t. Barbadians we’re not checking for Rihanna for years in the beginning.

[@wameezy]

Teairra mari’s album did ok in the first week but it didn’t end up even going Gold. Rihanna had the upper hand because Pon De Replay went #2 hot 100 so Def Jam knew she was profitable to them. Teairra Mari got dropped because she wasn’t profiting the label .

[@nicholachambers3274]

@@sunnydelight5255 yuh too lie

[@unanuevapecula]

@@nicholachambers3274 He dam lie

[@issag2138]

Nah as a Jamaican, that “pon di replay”did get her notice in Jamaica and we were behind her too. She had most Caribbean behind her for sure.

[@jules2419]

As someone who “grew up” with these 2 it all comes down to the music: Rihanna has always had hit singles and I remember me and my friends did not like the 2nd single, “No daddy” By Teairra

[@yamomsfavorite7793]

That’s ffaaccttsss!!! “No daddy” was trash and didn’t make sense and I remember Rihanna 1st album actually being good she was the underdog but people fucked with her album where tierra album wasn’t that good

[@malcolmblacctheicon]

I like no daddy that beat is everything

[@gabrielle916]

The only popular song i can remember is Feel Good from T Marie

[@jules2419]

@@gabrielle916 same here! That song is dope!

[@locturallylocs9097]

I loved no daddy but maybe that's because i have daddy issues 🥴😂

[@kebac3941]

Really well done. Thank you for the breakdown

[@naomi.cannibal]

thank you ♥️

[@82nonnie]

I hate how everyone ganged up on her about the 50 cent lawsuit, what he did was completely wrong smh

[@naomi.cannibal]

100%

[@gabrielhazzard7206]

Rihanna had an it and x factor though. There was something beyond her beauty, work ethic, style and unique tone...there was a magnetic allure to her..

[@royaltyblue1429]

Them eyes. I can guarantee it was her eyes that made her career.

[@UnreleasedUnderratedRnBgrooves]

Before both of them it was Nicole Wray, the First Lady of Roc. She was signed in ‘03, and didn’t depart with Jay Z’s camp till 2005 when Teairra AND Rihanna were introduced.

[@delisalondon]

She didn’t steal anything. Rihanna was overlooked but had this natural oomph that caught the eye of Beyoncé. If you watch the performance of Lose My Breath, Rih killed it. TM messed up a couple steps. She earned her success bc she was different. The underdog became the superstar and I love that for her.

[@lucialorenzana1554]

You can see the determination in Rihanna and the natural ability to emote in her own way. It just comes across more effortless and genuine.

[@danielwhitley7751]

Great video! I feel like another reason Teairra’s album didn’t do as well because of the choice of songs. “Make Her Feel Good” was a prominent song for her, and if they had kept her in that direction, I feel she would have thrived a lot more. She could have been in the lane of Ashanti and have a successful R&B album. Later on, she could’ve switched it up and test the waters of pop music. It was the lack of market appeal, and growing up, I only heard MHFG on R&B/Hip-Hop radio stations, I never heard it on pop radio, whereas with Rihanna, she was played on both.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Yes! MHFG has a very specific market. I feel like she would have eventually gotten to the more mainstream R&B pop the way artists usually do had Roc Nation not dropped her so quickly. Even after leaving the label her music had a lot of mainstream potential but sadly not a lot of money or promotion behind it

[@danielwhitley7751]

@@naomi.cannibal It honestly sucks that her dreams were crushed so quickly, but I admire that she still had the determination to keep going, despite all the things that took place. And honestly, the Teairra Mari and Rihanna story sounds very similar to what happened with Olivia and Alicia Keys when they were signed to J Records back in 2000/2001. Clive Davis saw potential in both ladies, but more had been invested into Alicia’s career. They tried to market Olivia as the “bad girl” of R&B, with heavy cursing on her records as well as pushing a sexy, hardcore image, whereas Alicia was more down to earth and seen as the girl next door that played the piano.

[@Strawberryfearsforever]

It was the second single "No Daddy" that really killed her career. I still love the album. Nothing was gonna stop the magic that is Rihanna regardless.

[@cressapellom4205]

@@Strawberryfearsforever what magic? She's not a good singer or dancer, and she was hella boring when she first came out. She must've sucked enough dicks to last.

[@GigglesDaDevil]

Her and the two original members of Destiny’s Child will always have a soft spot with me because of the way they were treated and the success they had to watch their peers (foes)have

[@MeHoyMinoy-cv3ps]

Just like every industry, not everyone can win

[@insfieldtrip]

A really well made video! Thank you!

[@naomi.cannibal]

Thank you♥️

[@AshontheLine]

Great video! Loved it! Bravo 👏🏽

[@jonellefigueroa3604]

Her attitude and unwanted drama killed her career. She's like a lose cannon. Just watching her on those reality show made me realize why the industry pushed her out. I always wondered because she was so talented even better than her other peers.

[@TheFearlessBabe]

Maybe she’s like that because life made her that way.

[@jasminegreene8159]

The drama reality shows were wayyyy after. She was innocent in the beginning.

[@roxyflower76]

Girl if u think thats an excuse to be unruly or an out of control drunk then u sure as fuck gonna have a hard time in life wit that mentality

[@kiwichill4820]

Girl no. Tierra was like that bc how the industry did her. She didn’t sell her soul like Rihanna but ultimately made Rihanna more famous

[@Orokamono_ymiru]

You don’t know her personally, but have the time and muscle memory to type this trash about her? 😂 chile you Adults are weird and have no life. And love and Hip Hop Hollywood happened YEARS after all of this so that’s irrelevant. Teairra was a Teenager when she started, a whole child. Stop speaking on peoples shortcomings and flaws. You ain’t perfect either boo.

[@Yeaster]

I think having a strong work ethic and good attitude is why Rihanna went further in music. It also helped that Rihanna was pop-leaning from the very beginning, which allowed her to release songs that more “pure” R&B acts wouldn’t touch. SOS and Umbrella made sense coming from Rihanna. Going from Make Her Feel Good to SOS wouldn’t have worked for T

[@kiwichill4820]

No it’s bc she sold her soul.

[@nephthysz]

@@kiwichill4820 she literally didn't tho💀

[@kiwichill4820]

@@nephthysz facts and evidence said it not me lol

[@chantalpie7499]

I can’t wait for Rihanna’s documentary. A lot of these ppl we think were behind her and putting in work for her wasn’t. It was her. Cipha was fighting for her at that time with Evan Rogers.

[@neffatilionnile]

Caribbean womens drive and work ethic is unmatched . ( we push past situations I’ve seen break people I thought were hella strong)

[@tinacarter116]

I wish Teairra Mari all of the healing & future success, she’s so beautiful & talented. I’m glad to see Rihanna doing well because she worked hard for it. There’s room for both of these Queens to be successful & blessed. ✨✨👑

[@tmichelle9669]

Teairra’s first album is so underrated. I still listen to it. I didn’t like Rihanna when she first came out because I thought Teairra had the better voice and music.

[@naomi.cannibal]

The album isn’t bad!! But I think the sound wasn’t for everyone and after the shine of it being brand new wore off it didn’t get a lot of promo

[@snofes12]

Yup I keep telling everyone nobody really checked for Rihanna untill she changed up her styled for gggb album , the nice Caribbean girl thing wasn't working

[@Butterflies515]

My fav song is phone booth

[@notyours143forlife2]

@@snofes12 speak for yourself she stayed on the pop charts pon de replay . Loving that you want . SOS . Ride . That song with Neyo that song with maroon 5 ppl wouldn’t STOP playing that Daam unfaithful song .. please you’re just a bandwagon

[@BreeziiyBenjii6]

she def needed a video for phone booth and new shit

[@deamonghod]

thank you for this👍🏾👍🏾never knew about this back story. great deep dive.. Subbed and looking forward to more 👍🏾👍🏾❤️

[@naomi.cannibal]

Thanks for watching!!

[@funnimy8450]

I’ve binged a few of your videos and I love how impartial and real you are

[@naomi.cannibal]

I genuinely appreciate that, thank you!

[@MoviesYouveScene]

I loved teairra Mari. I still have songs I bump from her album . She had soooo much potential and I’m heartbroken to see where she landed (love and hip hop)

[@pompeiisurvivor2502]

Can't imagine anyone almost being Rihanna. And I'm a fellow Detroiter who went to the same high school as Teairra Marie. I think Teairra is amazing and deserved much better support, but Good Girl Gone Bad was stupendous, and Rihanna's albums only got better and better.

[@SongSingsSoprano]

You were probably jealous seeing Teairra starting to come up. And happy to see her fail.

[@pompeiisurvivor2502]

@@SongSingsSoprano You're way off. I didn't know her. I went to DSA when Aaliyah was attending, many years prior, and I didn't find out that Teairra Marie was even from my city until some time after being a fan of her videos. Nice job, jumping to conclusions, Super Mario.

[@beanmoo]

@@SongSingsSoprano idk why you would say that lol they didn’t even sound bitter

[@pompeiisurvivor2502]

@@beanmoo Thank you. I was like, "Huh??" Lol

[@crystallott5735]

@@pompeiisurvivor2502 Super Mario 😭

[@benm3382]

Loved this video, keep them coming!

[@naomi.cannibal]

Will do!

[@NatalieFromCA]

This is actually a pretty sad story.. she couldn’t catch a break! Even tho Rei is my favorite, there has always definitely room for both of them! I hope that Teira is able to get the help she needs to battle her demons and hopefully she will eventually get another shot as a performer!! She is extremely talented and she could definitely make big moves!! 🙏💜

[@Pascal270988]

Teairra Mari deserves all the love. She's so beautiful, talented and likable! I still get soo pumped when I hear 'Sponsor' with her and Soulja Boy 🙂 Still rooting for you T!

[@TamaraGarrettAlpha]

That is the song 💯

[@LaRonSantiagoMusic]

Yes I love that song..wish it would blew up

[@jameelaworldwide]

I love that song

[@TheSMILive-fk3sp]

It's interesting to observe the comments but I want to point out something that I observed. I must admit this is the first time I'm hearing about Teairra Mari but I think one of the reasons Rihanna was able to reach the heights that she has was that she appears to be very emotionally intelligent and she doesn't make excuses. What happened with Rihanna and ChrisB could have destroyed her career but she seemed to rise from it. At the time she could have said that it's because of the domestic abuse she saw from her parents that she's a victim and given up. But what did she do? She took those lemons and made lemonade. She took responsibility and worked on herself and her craft - and over time, she was able to get back on track. The other thing that made Rihanna successful was that she had a vision from a young age. I remember watching an interview of her standing in the street and sharing her dreams of not just succeeding in music but also her interest in beauty and fashion. I think she was like 16 or 17 years old in that interview. Now I saw how she deliberately pursued this bit by bit and now we have Fenty Beauty and her fashion labels. This video said that Teairra Mari had another record deal. There was no competition then. So what happened then? I don't think it's entirely what happens to you but how you respond to it.

[@laddyvanity]

Nobody talks about her resilience after the domestic violence incident. Good point

[@TheSMILive-fk3sp]

@@laddyvanity I'm not sure if you read everything but that's exactly what I meant that she took lemons and made lemonade. You can't accomplish that without resilience.

[@laddyvanity]

@@TheSMILive-fk3sp I did. I agreed with everything you said. I was saying society doesn’t talk about her resilience too much and you made a great point

[@itsyaaveragegirl]

@Chauney_Lynn what look? Rihanna is just taller. Based on looks Teairra should have been a star. Her height, she was petite and still had breast and a booty, her skin was flawless and she wasn’t dark skin. What look Teairra didn’t have? The truth is Teairras music was just okay. Yes she sings better but her music was whatever to me.

[@itsyaaveragegirl]

@Chauney_Lynn I would still disagree. Teairra has the look more than RiRi did. I believe it’s Teairra attitude and how she carried herself that was her downfall.

[@xg8329]

Rihanna is a hardworking, focused, decent, respectable, mannerly, humble, down-to-earth person who does not forget her roots....Top that if U can!!!

[@nikitakumi3697]

Shes not hardworking, she never wrote her music

[@martajajackson1836]

"It's clear that they were singing the song and the song was not SINGING THEM." BEAUTIFULLY STATED 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🔥🔥🔥

[@naomi.cannibal]

🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾

[@nataliemanis203]

Rhiannas music is super underrated IMO. She’s always been creative, mixing r&b, reggae, dance, pop, and rock together into something that was uniquely her own. Not to mention she’s a great dancer and one of the most beautiful women to ever live. No shade but Rhianna was gonna be that girl and wasn’t a damn person going to stop her no matter where she got signed.

[@DesignzRUs1]

Can y’all STOP calling everyone underrated? I heard Rihanna is a billionaire now and she’s a global superstar. She’s been on every magazine cover and has had many hits…what’s underrated about that?! It’s just annoying, especially when I see hungry, rising artists who ARE actually underrated and don’t have the money to fund their passion projects. Gtfoh with that nonsense.

[@brandonthemyth6331]

Rhianna is OVERRATED

[@whotfisliyah]

rihanna is anything but underrated

[@Dragoncurse4]

Do you even know what underrated means? 😂

[@pigeon51]

She is a terrible dancer, not much of a singer either 😂 she's popular though. A savvy business woman.

[@santiago6251]

in ten years we'll be talking about how almost normani was doja cat

[@naomi.cannibal]

Nahhh bc at least Teairra put out a debut album

[@thom_sav7555]

@@naomi.cannibal bloop!

[@FXbySpecialK]

I got one Azaelia Banks

[@gam9918]

Crazy, great video.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Thanks!

[@DarkPathways]

One of the biggest things that sets them apart was that RiRi was able to infiltrate several different music genres in her albums where Tea stayed with the R&B. Which was fine, but early to mid 2000's we were seeing a lot of latin/reggae music (Frankie J, Daddy Yankee, Kat Deluna, Beanie Man to name a few) and Ri added her own island girl spin too. Tea was hella talented no questions there, but she was lacking real creativity and not really keeping up with the music changes happening then and honestly probably management too. Consistency also being another. They were both KIDS when they got into the industry and how the way they dropped Tea (OVER THE PHONE) was really messed up. There was plenty of seats at the table. I think if they had given Tea a different sound she'd be killing it right now. But, the universe had other plans. They are both very talented no doubt, but Ri was humble and kept it pushing.

[@xg8329]

T-Marie cannot compare to Rihanna... just cannot! RiRi is much more versatile... Anyone can honestly believe that T-Marie can do all that RiRi has done if given the chance?? NO WAY!

[@Kluermoi]

You’ve done an amazing job on this video❤️❤️❤️

[@naomi.cannibal]

Thank you ♥️

[@BeautyLoves88]

☹️😡😳 the way la reid was describing rihanna’s “startling 17-yr old beauty” & “laser eyes….” ewwww 🤢🤮 reminds me of how timbaland would call aaliyah “baby girl” & admitted a few years ago he was “in love w her” (ALSO a teenager when they met) smh….don’t get me STARTED on jay-z….ugh. & we call this “acceptable” because “they’re not toddlers; the girls are ‘grown enough’”….whatever sick thought process that is 🤢😮‍💨 LORD HELP US!! 🙏🏽

[@naomi.cannibal]

STOP I’m posting a video about this next week

[@nitafyne]

Right!

[@ggoodvibes23]

LA Reid is also labeled a sexual predator in the On The Record documentary (The one Oprah backed out of that included Russell Simmons)

[@KRSonbe]

Not everything is pedophilia. LA Reid made a nice compliment which was obvious about Rihanna. She and Teairra were always beautiful girls and talented. Neither Reid nor Jay-Z made any sexual comments or advances toward either ladies, so let's not make it into anything it wasn't, please.

[@BeautyLoves88]

@@naomi.cannibal PLEASE do!

[@aisheldavelaar2182]

When something is meant for you, nobody can't take it 🙏🥰 # Rihanna!

[@gigibella77]

Yes we want the other video 👍

[@AmberAshli]

I definitely remember this and no one saw Rihanna coming...Teairra was definitely the one to watch...funny how life goes!

[@vIbEsWiThMeDuSa]

You can’t steal anything if it’s already yours this was meant for her.

[@arliciacato5958]

Nobody can take what is meant for you.

[@snickerdoodle212]

💯 exactly!!

[@jayc5756]

Great Video breakdown. I gotta subscribe.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Glad you enjoyed!!

[@jayc5756]

@@naomi.cannibal I enjoyed this. But I went to your 1st video 9 months ago. You glorifying Azealia Banks ma. People can like who they like, Whatever. I hardly dislike much ppl. But her...I Really Can't Stand her. And I Still for the life of me can't understand how Any Self Respecting Black Person Still like her based on All the crazy hateful racist shit she has said about us and others over the years. Idk. So yeah, I'm good on that ma. But I appreciate this video though. Another 1 about billionaires seemed interesting...but the audio was off on 1 ear, so I said I might watch that lady on without headphones. Then I scrolled all the way down...thats where I found that Azealia video. But Whatever. Do ya thang ma.

[@Baby-nw7be]

This is so true, I heard of this before a while ago.

[@colleenharrison1638]

im glad i watched this all the way through, i appreciate how non-biased you were about her story, very accurate about her behavior in Love and Hip Hop.

[@naomi.cannibal]

Thank you! I knew her more from love and hiphop and somehow didn’t connect that she was the same person from all those years ago. Seeing how her life played out her behavior makes a lot of sense but I still wish better for her

[@colleenharrison1638]

@@naomi.cannibal agreed 💯💯💯

[@geminiqueen3754]

It wasn't meant to happen for Teairra Mari. There are many artists who blew up after being dropped: Alicia Keys and Ne-Yo by Columbia, Eve by Dr. Dre, and TI by LA Reid to name a few. Why didn't her record sell when she had backing? It just wasn't meant to be for her.

[@kgrace9360]

So sad, & I still say that Teairra is still 1 of the most beautiful women! That girl is absolutely gorgeous! May God bless her & keep her from evil.