Rihanna's Cautious Path to Love with A$AP Rocky

Rihanna (Getty Images)

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are one of the most adored celebrity couples, now sharing two young sons, RZA and Riot. Yet, this relationship didn’t bloom overnight. Recently, Rihanna opened up in an interview about why she initially approached her relationship with the rapper with caution and the journey they’ve shared since first meeting in 2012.

“We saw fashion the same. We saw creative the same,” she shared. From the start, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky had a lot in common. Both being involved in the fashion and music scenes, they often found themselves in similar circles.

“And past that, when we grew up, we ended up supporting each other’s brands and products and creative all the time. I would wear his stuff, he would show up to my launches,” Rihanna added, highlighting the support they’ve given each other over the years. 

Despite their close connection, it wasn’t until the end of 2019 that their relationship took a romantic turn. Rihanna noted that they had both seen each other in various relationships over the years, adding, “We’ve seen each other outside of relationships.” This familiarity with each other’s pasts added a layer of understanding between them.

Rihanna & A$AP Rocky (Gilbert Flores for Variety)

When they finally did consider dating, it was with full awareness of the potential risks. As Rihanna put it, “We knew what we’re capable of, and the trouble that we could bring to each other’s lives. We can make or break each other’s hearts.” 

With this in mind, the two approached their new relationship with caution, understanding that their strong friendship could either grow into something beautiful or lead to heartbreak.

In November 2020, people began to confirm Rihanna and A$AP’s relationship. By then, they had embraced a unique journey through the COVID-19 pandemic, which Rihanna credited with accelerating their relationship. The pandemic brought them closer and allowed them to explore the idea of family together.

“COVID sped up our relationship, which I felt like God knew we needed because we were going to start a family,” she said. “Had it not been for COVID, we would’ve taken a lot more time to get comfortable with each other.”

This period allowed them to understand each other more deeply, paving the way for them to welcome their first son, RZA, in May 2022.

Reflecting on her relationship, Rihanna expressed her appreciation for A$AP Rocky’s belief in her as a mother. She mentioned that in her previous relationships, she often felt like her efforts weren’t enough.

“So when someone sees you completely, and believes in you, and thinks you’re worthy of being the mother of their kids, it’s a great feeling,” she said. “I knew he would be a great dad.”

A$AP Rocky and Rihanna.Photo:Anthony Harvey/Shutterstock

For Rihanna, this shared belief in each other’s parenting abilities has brought them even closer. This sentiment was further validated when they welcomed their second son, Riot, in August 2023. The couple now enjoys the support and companionship they bring to each other as they raise their children together.

Rihanna shared a thoughtful metaphor for their relationship. “I just let whatever was supposed to happen, happen,” she said. “It was just, ‘This is a flower. It’s either going to die or blossom. But I’m going to let it decide itself.’” This approach seems to have worked for them, allowing their relationship to unfold naturally.

As Rihanna and A$AP Rocky continue their journey, they remain an example of how friendship can form the foundation of a lasting and meaningful relationship. The caution with which they approached their romance has blossomed into a family that they are both proud of.