Rihanna has opened up about her plans to release a new album after rumours erupted that she has retired.
The 36-year-old singer, make-up brand owner and actress sparked alarm among fans this week when she stepped out wearing a t-shirt with the words "I'm retired" emblazoned on it.
Now the star has clarified the slogan t-shirt was a joke - but admits she's gone back to the drawing board for her ninth studio album.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, the star said, "Music, for me, is a new discovery. I'm rediscovering things. I have been working on the album for so long that I put all that stuff aside, and now I'm prepared to go back in the studio."
She continued, "So, I'm now prepared. I'm gonna start. So, you know, give me a second. Yes, I'm starting over, but I don't wanna neglect the songs that I have. I wanna listen to stuff with new ears, with my new perspective, and then see what still applies and what I'm still in love with."
It has been eight long years since Rihanna last unleashed an album - with Anti topping charts back in January 2016.
Fans had hoped that the singer would release new music last year when she performed at the Super Bowl, however, she instead performed a storming rendition of classic her hits.
During her chat with ET, Rihanna also reacted to a question as to whether she wants more children with partner A$AP Rocky, saying, "You know what, I hope so. I do... I'm not pregnant, if that's what you're asking."
