The 51-year-old rap icon opened up about this experience during the latest episode of LeBron James’ HBO series, The Shop. Reflecting on the transformative impact of becoming a father, Jay-Z described learning to swim as his initial step in connecting with his daughter. “It’s amazing. It’s a very grounding thing… I didn’t learn how to swim until Blue was born,” he disclosed. The rapper highlighted the profound shift in perspective that fatherhood brought, particularly in terms of responsibility and safeguarding his child.

Discussing his fears as a new parent, Jay-Z candidly expressed, “If she ever fell in the water and I couldn’t get her, I couldn’t even fathom that thought.” This realization motivated him to prioritize learning to swim, marking the beginning of a journey shaped by father-daughter bonding.

Jay-Z and his wife, Beyoncé, welcomed Blue Ivy in January 2012, followed by twins Rumi and Sir in June 2017. The couple’s dedication to family life and their children’s well-being has been a recurring theme in their public appearances and interviews.

Beyond his personal revelations, Jay-Z also touched on lighter moments during the show, including anecdotes about Blue Ivy’s nonchalant reaction to his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination. “I got the announcement, I was taking Blue to school, I was like, ‘This ain’t no celebration,'” he humorously recounted. His daughter’s response? A dismissive “Bye, dad,” which elicited laughter from the audience.

The episode wasn’t solely about humor, however, as Jay-Z also reflected on the passing of his close friend, DMX, highlighting the depth of their friendship and the impact of DMX’s legacy.