We Found Love (feat. Calvin Harris)

The song 'We Found Love', performed by Rihanna and produced by Calvin Harris, is the debut single from the 2011 album 'Talk That Talk'. Originally, the song was recorded by Leona Lewis, but Harris opted to release the track in RiRi's voice after taking part in the Barbadian tour. The music video accompanying the song was directed by Melina Matsoukas and portrays the singer and her partner in a toxic relationship, where passion and drug use speak louder than their well-being. Fans speculate that the actor opposite Rihanna was chosen because he resembled Chris Brown, RiRi's then-boyfriend, who also had a troubled relationship with the singer.

The lyrics begin with the image of 'yellow diamonds in the light', a metaphor that can represent moments of brightness and hope amid darkness since yellow symbolizes renewal. On the other hand, if we take the music video into account, these diamonds could also be drugs, such as ecstasy pills. The idea of standing side by side and of shadows crossing mine suggests a deep connection between two people, even in a bleak environment. This connection can seem more intense than it really is due to the use of narcotics ('what it takes to come alive') and we notice that the singer gradually realizes this, as in the pre-chorus: 'It's the way I'm feeling, I just can't deny, but I've gotta let it go'.

The chorus 'We found love in a hopeless place' emphasizes the central idea of the song: the discovery of love in an environment or situation that seems hopeless and hopeless. This phrase can be interpreted in many ways, including relationships that flourish in personal, social or emotional adversity. The repetition of the verse reinforces the intensity and importance of this discovery, almost like a mantra of resilience and hope that motivates the two lovers.

Meanwhile, the second stanza brings the image of 'shine a light through an open door'. When a relationship ends, we say that a door closes. Here, however, Rihanna says that the door is still open, which means that the couple is still together, even though they are living through toxic situations. This 'light that shines' is hope, meaning that there is still an opportunity for RiRi to get out of this relationship that is getting worse and worse for her. This internal struggle is also present in the following verse 'turn away 'cause I need you more': it expresses the singer's conflict between moving on and the need to be with the person she loves.

Musically, the song combines elements of dance-pop with Calvin Harris' characteristic electronic beat, creating a euphoric atmosphere that contrasts with the theme of love and hopelessness. The collaboration between Rihanna and Harris was a resounding success, marking the song as one of the biggest hits of the 2010s. RiRi, known for her versatility and ability to move between different musical genres, delivers a vocal performance that captures the internal conflict portrayed throughout the lyrics.