Pop sounded different before and after she debuted. Whilst she wasn't solely responsible, she played a huge part in the dance surge from 2009 to 2011 and her success with RedOne made him the go-to producer. Then of course we have her visuals and theatrics which obviously kicked things up a few notches, including her peers taking some leaves out of her book.
I'm not sure what notable influence the Rihanna brand has had.