“We’ve Been Waiting 20 Years, Rap God”: Rihanna Reveals Eminem as Godfather of Her Third Child

In a surprising and electrifying announcement that has sent shockwaves through the music world, Rihanna has revealed that rap legend Eminem will be the godfather of her third child. The news, coupled with the jaw-dropping reveal of her child’s name, has sparked widespread excitement and nostalgia, particularly among fans who have followed the duo’s iconic collaboration over the past two decades. The phrase “We’ve been waiting 20 years, Rap God” has been trending across social media, referencing Eminem’s 2013 hit and the long-standing musical partnership between the two artists. This article delves into the significance of this announcement, the history of Rihanna and Eminem’s relationship, and the cultural impact of their bond.

A Bond Forged in Music

Rihanna and Eminem’s relationship dates back to 2009 when they first collaborated on the song Love the Way You Lie, a chart-topping hit from Eminem’s album Recovery. The song, which explored themes of love, pain, and toxic relationships, resonated with millions worldwide, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Rihanna’s haunting vocals paired with Eminem’s raw, emotive lyricism created a perfect synergy that captivated audiences. The track’s success led to a sequel, Love the Way You Lie (Part II), featured on Rihanna’s album Loud in 2010.

Their collaboration didn’t stop there. In 2013, the duo teamed up again for The Monster from Eminem’s The Marshall Mathers LP 2. The song, which blended pop and hip-hop elements, further solidified their chemistry and showcased their ability to create music that transcends genres. Fans have long celebrated the duo’s collaborations, with many considering their joint work some of the most memorable of the 2000s and 2010s. The phrase “We’ve been waiting 20 years, Rap God” circulating online nods to Eminem’s 2013 track Rap God, a lyrical masterpiece that cemented his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time, and reflects fans’ excitement about this new chapter in their personal and professional relationship.

Rihanna’s Announcement: Eminem as Godfather

On August 7, 2025, Rihanna took to Instagram Live to share the news that she and her partner, A$AP Rocky, had welcomed their third child. While the announcement of a new addition to their family was exciting in itself, it was Rihanna’s revelation about the godfather that stole the spotlight. “I couldn’t think of anyone better to be the godfather to our baby than Marshall,” Rihanna said, referring to Eminem by his real name, Marshall Mathers. “He’s been a friend, a collaborator, and someone who’s always been real with me. I know he’ll bring that same energy to our child’s life.”

The announcement has sparked a wave of reactions from fans and celebrities alike. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with posts celebrating the news. One user wrote, “Rihanna picking Eminem as godfather is ICONIC. From Love the Way You Lie to family, this is full circle!” Another commented, “20 years of bangers, and now Eminem’s the godfather? Rap God indeed!” The sentiment reflects the deep connection fans feel to the duo’s shared history and the unexpected yet heartwarming evolution of their bond.

The Name That Stunned the World

Perhaps the most surprising part of Rihanna’s announcement was the name of her third child: Lyric Reign Fenty. The name, which pays homage to both music and Rihanna’s regal persona, has been described as bold, unique, and perfectly fitting for the child of two music powerhouses. The choice of “Lyric” is particularly poignant given Rihanna and Eminem’s history of creating lyrical masterpieces together. Fans speculate that the name may also be a subtle nod to Eminem’s influence, as his intricate wordplay and storytelling have long been a hallmark of his career.

The name “Reign” adds another layer of intrigue, evoking themes of power, legacy, and royalty—qualities that Rihanna has embodied throughout her career. Social media reactions have ranged from awe to admiration, with one X post reading, “Lyric Reign? Rihanna just named her kid like it’s a Grammy-winning album title!” Another user noted, “The name is perfect. It’s like Rihanna and Eminem wrote a song together and named the baby after it.”

The Cultural Impact of Rihanna and Eminem’s Partnership

The announcement of Eminem as godfather and the reveal of Lyric Reign’s name have reignited discussions about the cultural impact of Rihanna and Eminem’s partnership. Their collaborations have not only produced chart-topping hits but also bridged gaps between genres, bringing together fans of pop, hip-hop, and R&B. Love the Way You Lie and The Monster addressed complex themes such as domestic violence, mental health, and personal struggles, sparking conversations about issues often left unspoken in mainstream music.

Eminem, known for his introspective and often controversial lyrics, has always been a polarizing figure. Yet, his vulnerability in songs like Love the Way You Lie allowed fans to see a more human side of the rapper. Rihanna, with her powerhouse vocals and fearless persona, brought an emotional depth to their collaborations that resonated with listeners. Their ability to tackle heavy topics while maintaining commercial success is a testament to their artistry and mutual respect.

The choice of Eminem as godfather also speaks to the trust and admiration Rihanna has for him. In an industry often marked by fleeting relationships, their enduring friendship is a rarity. Rihanna’s decision to entrust Eminem with such an important role in her child’s life underscores the depth of their bond, which has evolved from professional collaborators to close friends.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

The announcement has sparked speculation about whether Rihanna and Eminem might collaborate again in the future. Fans have been eagerly awaiting new music from Rihanna, who has focused much of her recent efforts on her Fenty empire and motherhood. Eminem, meanwhile, continues to release music, with his 2024 album The Death of Slim Shady receiving critical acclaim. A new collaboration between the two would undoubtedly be a major event, especially given the renewed attention on their partnership.

For now, though, the focus remains on Lyric Reign and the unique role Eminem will play in her life. As godfather, Eminem is likely to bring his signature intensity and loyalty to the role, offering guidance and support to Rihanna’s daughter. Fans are already imagining the stories Lyric might hear about her parents’ and godfather’s musical legacy, from studio sessions to sold-out tours.

A Full-Circle Moment

The phrase “We’ve been waiting 20 years, Rap God” encapsulates the excitement and nostalgia surrounding this moment. For fans who have followed Rihanna and Eminem’s careers since their first collaboration, this announcement feels like a full-circle moment. It’s a reminder of the power of music to forge lasting connections and the ability of artists to transcend their craft to create meaningful personal bonds.

As Rihanna and A$AP Rocky embrace parenthood once again, and Eminem steps into the role of godfather, the world watches with anticipation. Lyric Reign Fenty is already a name destined for greatness, carrying the legacy of two musical titans. Whether through future collaborations or the stories they share with Lyric, Rihanna and Eminem’s partnership continues to captivate and inspire.

In a world where celebrity news often feels fleeting, this announcement stands out as a testament to friendship, artistry, and the enduring impact of music. As fans celebrate this milestone, one thing is clear: the “Rap God” and the queen of pop are writing a new chapter together, one that promises to be as unforgettable as their greatest hits.