“Disturbia” has arrived and it is probably one of the most visually stunning videos Rihanna has released (and lately she’s done several goodies). This time around, she flirts with freaks, beasts and creepy crawlies — all the while looking like the hottest horror movie vixen to ever exist (no easy feat!)!

The dark concept might not be anything new (I was reminded of old Marilyn Manson and Nine Inch Nails videos), but it’s certainly been a long time since such a mainstream artist had the nerve to go with such a macabre clip — so kudos to Rihanna and especially the director. “Disturbia” is going to make headlines.

here’s an interesting tidbit. rihanna’s “umbrella” could have taken a very different form if it had been recorded by the artist who initially expressed interest — britney spears. (can you imagine her doing the “ella ella” part?? oh dear!).

whether you love or hate rihanna’s take, it’s difficult to deny that it’s a fairly effective pop song. and ms. spears has done well with undeniably catchy singles like “toxic” and “baby one more time” — songs that honestly even could have been hits had they been recorded by a cheeky sea lion. if she had snagged “umbrella,” it could have relaunched her career. d’oh.

i suppose it’s safe to say britney’s a bit jealous. i know i would be! we shall see if her confirmed comeback single “gimme more” is the next “umbrella.” i’m actually rooting for her, but it looks like the cards are stacked against her.

nothing beats a low-budget drag queen spoof, and lady-dude britney houston takes the crown with her revamp of rihanna’s ubiquitous “umbrella” video. ms. houston calls herself the pop parody princess of youtube, and after watching this clip, i must say i agree. i have two favorite parts: when she’s vacuuming in the maid’s outfit and when she’s curled up in rather uncomfortable positions in that ineffective nude suit.

if you like what you see here, you must watch her rendition of lil’ mama’s “lip gloss.” i love that the people leaving comments are debating whether or not britney houston is a tranny. not that lil’ mama is the most feminine pop star on the planet.

somebody’s on a roll! rihanna’s latest album good girl gone bad has already produced two big hits with “umbrella” and “shut up and drive.” the latest track to heat up is “don’t stop the music,” a dance number with an undeniable techno beat. it was actually released simultaneously with “shut up and drive,” but due to its’ pulsating rhythm it dominated the clubs instead of pop radio. the video, which i’ve posted for you here, plays up that dancefloor appeal.

it’s not clear what’s next for rihanna, as there are several potential singles from the album including “breakin’ dishes.” i heard her collaboration with ne-yo, “hate that i love you,” is on the horizon.

for no apparent reason, i didn’t immediately fall in love with rihanna’s current chart topper, “umbrella.” now that the song is ubiquitous and i’ve heard it several times, i finally realized that it is undeniably brilliant.

the video only sweetens the deal, really. rihanna looks amazing and the visuals suit it perfectly. she’s going to have her work cut out for her when she tries to top this one. ooh, and did you see her perform this song on the mtv movie awards? damn!