At Su p er Bowl 18, Jay-Z supports Rihanna, who he “locked in office until 3am” to sign a record deal.

Eighteen years after arranging her record contract, Jay-Z proudly supported Rihanna at the Su pe r Bowl as she wowed the crowd with her spectacular performance.

The music mogul Jay-Z first noticed Rihanna’s untapped skill and potential years ago, which marked the beginning of their journey together. Thinking back to their earlier days together, rumors have it that Jay-Z reportedly “locked her in the office until 3 am” to seal the agreement that would launch her breakthrough career.

Jay-Z’s backing now that Rihanna is commanding the world’s attention with her unmatched creativity is proof of their long-lasting connection and the transformational potential of mentoring in the music industry.

As they enjoy the limelight of the Su pe r Bowl, their common past represents the victory of skill and perseverance as well as the relationships created from cooperation and mutual belief in one another’s abilities.

With his thunderous applause echoing throughout the stadium, Jay-Z’s presence on the sidelines of the S u per Bowl symbolizes the journey they have taken together, from that late-night office meeting to the biggest stage in sports and entertainment.

It’s a time to celebrate Rihanna’s accomplishments as well as the mentoring and direction that helped mold her into the worldwide phenomenon that she is today.