Rihanna kicks off world tour

Rihanna kicked off her world tour in New York on Friday night (08Mar13) amid reports she is planning a year-long break from the music industry after the trek.

The Umbrella hitmaker took to the stage at Buffalo's First Niagra Center for the first show of her Diamonds World Tour an hour late, at 10pm local time, but thrilled fans with a hits-packed set.

She performed tracks including Rude Boy, We Found Love, Only Girl (In the World) and Don't Stop The Music, and thanked fans for attending the gig.

Rihanna declared, "You guys are all rock stars. There is only one first show, you all have a special place in my heart."

The singer took to her Twitter.com page after the concert to add, "Buffalo I will never forget how you made me feel tonight!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!! 1 (one) love always. Diamonds World Tour we (are) just getting started!!!"

Rihanna's gig comes as TV/radio presenter Ryan Seacrest claimed the superstar is plotting a 12-month hiatus after the tour ends in Finland in July (13).

Speaking on his radio show, he said, "She's been in this go mode for a while. Seven hit records in seven years. Sold-out tours, but sources say after this tour wraps, she plans to take up to a year off to unwind."