With music patiently awaiting the arrival of Rihanna’s long-anticipated R9 album, it’s only natural A$AP Rocky would be asked about it while promoting his new album, Don’t Be Dumb.
While promoting his new album Don’t Be Dumb on the New York Times’ Popcast podcast, the Harlem rapper was pressed about whether fans can expect Rihanna’s much-discussed album, commonly dubbed R9, to arrive anytime soon. Rocky navigated the update with precision.
The moment came when co-host Joe Coscarelli jokingly asked if it was Rihanna’s “turn” to drop an album now that Don’t Be Dumb is set for release, adding that Rocky might be “in charge of the kids” once his rollout wraps.
Rocky didn’t bite. “No comment, no,” he said flatly, signaling that the topic was off-limits.
Rather than dodging the question, Rocky framed his response around respect and awareness. “I try to lead by example,” he explained, steering the conversation away from timelines and expectations.
His answer reflected an understanding of the pressure surrounding Rihanna’s absence from music and the intense devotion of her fanbase, which has been waiting years for a follow-up to ANTI.
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Rocky made it clear he wasn’t trying to spark speculation. “I’m be honest, yo, you’re gonna get me in trouble with her fans, bro. They don’t play,” he added, half-laughing but clearly serious.
Rihanna’s supporters are famously protective, and Rocky acknowledged that even a hint could ignite viral theories and online chaos.
The exchange carries extra weight following reports in 2025 that Rocky and Rihanna had been collaborating on each other’s upcoming projects. Those reports fueled assumptions that his album might signal movement on R9. Rocky’s refusal to offer details pushes back on that narrative, reinforcing that collaboration doesn’t equal obligation.
In the end, Rocky’s response says more about boundaries than secrecy. He keeps Don’t Be Dumb centered on his own creative moment while respecting Rihanna’s autonomy. For now, the message is simple: Rocky isn’t teasing R9. When Rihanna is ready to speak, she will.
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