A$AP Rocky fans, your wait is almost over! After six long years, the Harlem-born rapper is set to release his fourth album, Don’t Be Dumb, on August 30. Anticipation is sky-high, especially since his last album, TESTING, left fans and critics divided.
A$AP Rocky’s previous album, TESTING, achieved modest success but didn’t quite hit the mark, even with hits like ‘Praise the Lord (Da Shine)’ featuring Skepta. The mixed reviews raised questions about Rocky’s staying power, especially compared to his peers like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole.
Rocky announced the release date for Don’t Be Dumb in June during Paris Fashion Week, holding up a sign that simply read: ‘Don’t Be Dumb. August 30, 2024.’ He has yet to explain the album’s title or reveal the album cover.
Initially rumored to be called All Smiles, Rocky clarified in a 2022 interview that it was merely a concept project. He also blamed album leaks for delays, remarking, ‘They gotta stop leaking it! These dummies got to stop leaking shit.’
Rocky has already released several singles that might be on this album, including ‘D.M.B.,’ ‘Same Problems?’ ‘RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n),’ and ‘HIGHJACK.’ Despite the variety, none of these singles have reached the heights of his biggest hits.
The album promises vocal contributions from Lil Yachty, Miguel, Jessica Pratt, and Jon Batiste. Production comes from a star-studded lineup including Tyler, The Creator, Pharrell, and Metro Boomin. Rocky also hinted at a big collaboration featuring Busta Rhymes, Slick Rick, and others.
In various interviews, Rocky has expressed high confidence about this album, claiming it feels like his best work yet. He revealed that he has pushed himself to the limit, promising a polished sound that graduates from the experimental tones of his last album.
The themes of Don’t Be Dumb reflect Rocky’s bold and brash persona. In ‘D.M.B.,’ Rocky seems to take a jab at ex-boyfriend Chris Brown of his current partner Rihanna, rapping, ‘I don’t beat my bitch, I need my bitch.’ Meanwhile, ‘HIGHJACK’ features a possible dig at Drake.
Don’t Be Dumb also hints at deeper, more introspective themes. ‘Same Problems?’ discusses societal woes and personal flaws, with Rocky lamenting, ‘N-ggas dyin’ every other night / N-ggas cryin’, that’s a part of life.’
Rocky’s personal life has seen significant changes since his last album, including becoming a father to two sons with Rihanna. Whether he’ll explore fatherhood in the album remains to be seen.
Moreover, Rocky has faced legal troubles, including felony gun charges and civil lawsuits, which may also color the album’s narrative. He’s pleaded not guilty and is set to stand trial later this year.
In just a few weeks, A$AP Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb will either prove his doubters wrong or validate their skepticism. Either way, it’s going to be a release you won’t want to miss.
