Friends Place Birthday Greeting in Barbados Local Paper for Rihanna

© Inez Lewis/PR Photos

Rihanna turned 21 years old on Friday, February 20 and some of her close friends helped her marking her big day by placing a birthday greeting in one local Barbados paper, called the Nation News. The message, according to US Weekly, read, "Happy 21 Birthday to Robyn Rihanna Fenty. Amidst all the negativity about Ri Ri. God will continue to bless her. That's why you are so great, Ri Ri. From Sharon, Shane, Kim and Rashane. We love you."

Earlier last week, E! Online's Marc Malkin claimed in a report that Rihanna's record label canceled plans to throw her a birthday party which was supposed to be held in N.Y.C. The cancellation was triggered by her becoming the victim of physical assault by her singer boyfriend Chris Brown on February 8.

Marc reported at that time that the Barbadian singer's music label had been putting together ideas for the birthday party for about a month. The feast, planned for about 200 guests, was to have had a carnival theme with various "sideshow" attractions. The deal wasn't finalized, but it was planned to take place at Gotham Hall, a source said.

Rihanna herself has been seen appearing in L.A. on Thursday night, February 19, the same day TMZ leaked a photo, showing her bruised face post Chris Brown's alleged attack. She, in the meantime, has also spoken for the very first time about the incident, saying she's fine and thanking fans for their support during the difficult time.