Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s decision to name their child after RZA, the iconic rapper from Wu-Tang Clan, has ignited a lively discussion among listeners of The Breakfast Club. Fans of the show, known for its cultural commentary, called in to share their own experiences with naming their children, especially after celebrities and public figures.

The trend of naming children after famous personalities is becoming increasingly popular, and many parents look to celebrities for inspiration. One listener, for instance, revealed that she named her son Jason after the rapper The Game. Another shared how she chose the name Kingston for her child, but decided to switch up the spelling to make it unique.

However, not all listeners follow the celebrity path. Some callers expressed a preference for names with deeper meanings, like those inspired by Arabic or West African leaders. For them, the significance behind a name is crucial, more so than its association with fame.

The Breakfast Club hosts playfully debated the versatility of certain names and how they’re perceived. Names like Omarion, Kanye, and Nas—popular due to famous figures—came up frequently, while others drew inspiration from actors like Shia LaBeouf or legendary musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and Joaquin Phoenix. One caller even combined inspirations, naming her son Phoenix Marley, after both Phoenix and Bob Marley.

Gender-neutral names also became a hot topic of discussion. Names like Peyton and Brooklyn were praised for their adaptability, breaking away from traditional gender norms. While some listeners shared stories about choosing versatile names, others debated the fluidity of names like Kingston or Rashawn.

Interestingly, soap operas and pop culture also play a role in name selection. One listener mentioned how she named her child Stefano after a character from Days of Our Lives, showcasing how even television characters influence naming decisions.

Throughout the conversation, it became clear that for many parents, the meaning and personal significance of a name outweigh societal expectations. While some opt for celebrity-inspired names to honor their idols, others choose names based on cultural heritage or personal experiences.

The evolving nature of naming practices reflects broader shifts in society’s views on gender, culture, and individuality. The playful yet thoughtful debate on The Breakfast Club highlighted that, ultimately, the decision to name a child is deeply personal, shaped by a variety of influences from celebrities to culture to life experiences.