A$AP Rocky Releases Long-Awaited Fourth Album ‘Don’t Be Dumb’ After Eight Years

A$AP Rocky has released his fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb, on January 16, 2026, marking his first full-length project in nearly eight years since Testing in 2018. The 17-track album showcases a diverse range of genres, blending punk, trap, indie, jazz, and more, with notable features from artists like Tyler, The Creator and Doechii. Tim Burton contributed to the eerie gothic cartoon-style cover art, depicting six of Rocky’s alter-egos, while the lead single ‘Punk Rocky’ features a music video with Winona Ryder and Danny Elfman. Critics have offered mixed but largely positive reviews: NME praised its mature and current feel, Clash called it eclectic and ambitious with an 8/10 score, and The Guardian deemed it his strongest since his 2013 debut, though noting some lazy lyrics amid sharper moments. Fans appreciate the energetic consistency and departure from Testing’s divisive experimentation, though some found it safe. The release follows significant life changes for Rocky, including his relationship with Rihanna (confirmed in 2021), becoming a father to three children (RZA in 2022, Riot in 2023, and Rocki in 2025), past legal battles—including a 2019 Swedish assault conviction with a suspended sentence and a 2021 US felony assault trial where he was acquitted—and acting roles in films like Highest 2 Lowest. Rihanna does not appear on the album, and Rocky avoided commenting on future family dynamics affecting her music. With over a million Spotify pre-saves, the album is poised for strong chart performance as hip-hop’s first major 2026 release.