SimplyAbuDhabi XII

R ihanna’s recent trip to Abu Dhabi regrettably gained more notoriety for her ill advised, impromptu photo shoot at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, than for her performance. Newspapers across the world splashed her misdemeanour (and sultry photos) across the front pages. Against the backdrop of the graceful alabaster white sanctuary, the young singer posed for photos in restricted areas of the mosque wearing a black jumpsuit and hijab before being politely asked to leave. Tut Tut Ri Ri. It’s not the first time Rihanna has hit the headlines for reasons other than her music. Her tempestuous relationship with Chris Brown earnt her many column inches, indignantly drawing attention away from her stellar career. The Barbadian artist, actress and fashion designer – boasting many strings to her bow – began her career through a chance meeting with record producer Evan Rogers in 2003. She recorded demo tapes under his guidance, sending them to record labels until she was signed by Jay Z’s Def Jam Recordings, auditioning in front of Mr Beyonce himself. RoughDiamond