Loud is the fifth studio album by Barbadian recording artist Rihanna. It was first released on November 12, 2010. Recording sessions began in February 2010 and continued over a period of six months, concluding in August 2010. The album's lead single "Only Girl (In the World)" was released on September 10, 2010 as a digital download. "What's My Name?" is confirmed for release as the second single, while Rihanna has stated that current plans will see "S&M" released as the third single.
In June 2010, it was revealed that Rihanna was planning to release her fifth studio album soon. Singers, songwriters and producers Taio Cruz, Alex da Kid, Sean Garrett, Ne-Yo, Rico Love, Timbaland, Shontelle, David Guetta, and Drake worked on the album. "I'm gonna miss the Rated R era too, but nothing compares to the album I just made," Rihanna said, adding, "I made sure not to let you down with my music. You guys are always defending me, so now you’ve got some great songs to justify it. I didn’t want to go backward and remake Good Girl Gone Bad. I wanted the next step in the evolution of Rihanna, and it’s perfect for us". In early September 2010, she announced that the album would be called, Loud saying that "get Loud everybody, get crazy, get excited, because I'm pumped. I'm just gonna be me, because that's what you guys love the most, and that's what makes me feel best. Just being normal, normal for me is Loud! Sassy, fun, flirty, energetic." While Rihanna was on set filming for the movie Battleship, she explained in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, "Loud is, the word, the name of the album definitely reflects the attitude of it, it’s really sassy and flirty and it grabs your attention and that’s why I enjoy it. It takes you through a really really interesting ride. So colorful the album.” The artwork of the album was revealed on September 28, 2010.
