A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, graces the cover of W Magazine with photography by none other than Rihanna, Rocky’s partner and the mother of their two Kids, Rza, 2, and Riot, 1.
In the exclusive interview, the 35-year-old rapper opens up about a range of topics, including his highly anticipated upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb, fatherhood , and his relationship with Rihanna.
Reflecting on fatherhood, Rocky didn’t hold back. “I’m such a dad, it’s [really] hilarious. I haven’t been in the gym in weeks. I come home, my kids are already in bed, asleep. I leave, they still asleep. But the sacrifices we make to put out something substantial…,” he shared.
When asked how he knew Rihanna was “the one” to be the mother of his children, Rocky responded without hesitation.
“I knew from when we were younger. We both did, I think. So it was only right when we got older. We just kind of reconnected.”
The pair first met in 2012, stayed friends, and reconnected around 2019 or 2020, and the rest is history. Their first son, Rza, arrived in 2022, followed by Riot in 2023.
Rocky spoke lovingly about his boys, noting their distinct personalities. “I think Rza is going to keep to himself. He’s an introvert,” he said, comparing his eldest to himself. “Riot’s an extrovert—he’s just like his mom.”
He continued, “Rza is more so like his dad, like me. And he’s my twin. He got his mom’s forehead, but he got everything else from me. I love my boy’s big forehead! I loved it on his mother. Listen to ‘Jukebox Joints.’ ”
Despite Rza’s more reserved nature, Rocky says the bond between the brothers is growing. “Riot looks up to Rza. I think Rza’s warming up to Riot.”
But amid the demands of fatherhood, career, and life, it’s Rihanna’s support that keeps him grounded. “She knows when to hold it down. I think we both have our niches, our things that we do that we’re good at. She could never be a great dad, because she’s a great mom.”
With a grin, he added, “And I could never be a great mom, because I’m the greatest dad in the whole wide world.”
