Photo Credit:ASAP Rocky/Instagram
In a deeply personal series of recent interviews, Grammy-nominated rapper A$AP Rocky revealed how becoming a father to sons RZA, 2, and Riot Rose, 14 months, has transformed his perspective on life, family, and creativity. The 35-year-old artist, born Rakim Mayers in Harlem, spoke candidly about navigating parenthood alongside his partner Rihanna, 36, while remaining dedicated to his musical evolution.
"That shit changed my swag," Rocky admitted in his October 2024 W Magazine cover story, shot intimately by Rihanna herself. "I'm such a dad now - it's hilarious. The sacrifices we make to put out something substantial..." The rapper described adapting to a new routine, often missing his children's waking hours due to late studio sessions for his upcoming album "Don't Be Dumb."
Rocky and Rihanna's relationship, which began officially around 2019 after a seven-year friendship, has grown into a true partnership. "I knew from when we were younger. We both did, I think," Rocky reflected on their connection, which was partly strengthened by their shared Caribbean heritage. Rocky's late father, Adrian Mayers, hailed from Barbados like Rihanna - a connection that resonated deeply with the rapper. "All those years that I missed in Barbados, I just started making up for it, getting more in tune with that side of my culture."
The couple has developed a natural division of parentalresponsibilities. "We both have our niches, our things that we do that we're good at," Rocky explained. "She could never be a great dad, because she's a great mom. And I could never be a great mom, because I'm the greatest dad in the whole wide world."
As for their sons' personalities, Rocky observed distinct traits emerging: "I think RZA is going to keep to himself. He's an introvert," while "Riot's an extrovert - he's just like his mom." Despite their differences, the siblings are already forming a bond, with "Riot looking up to RZA" as Rocky proudly noted.
Lessons from his own upbringing inform Rocky's parenting philosophy. His father taught him the importance of trusting oneself and breaking rules thoughtfully. Now, Rocky aims to pass on "a little bit of humility - and cockiness when it's time. Freedom is key, so I really want to support my boys and hope to be receptive to whoever and whatever they want to be in life."
This new chapter coincides with Rocky's continued evolution as an artist. His forthcoming album "Don't Be Dumb" promises to blend diverse influences, from indie and classical to vintage Memphis hip-hop. While not explicitly focused on fatherhood, the album naturally incorporates themes of "adapting to changes and having a work-family balance," as Rocky described.
Rocky emphasized the paramount importance of family support, particularly from his partner. "If I didn't have the support of our parents, I don't know what we would be doing," he reflected, highlighting the crucial role of their extended family network as they navigate parenthood in the spotlight.
