A$AP Rocky reveals that “Don’t Be Dumb” album is being mixed and mastered

A$AP Rocky in mixing and mastering stages of “Don’t Be Dumb”

For years, fans have been eagerly awaiting ASAP Rocky’s next album, Don’t Be Dumb. After countless delays, rumors, and teases, the Harlem rapper revealed to GQ that the album is in the final mixing and mastering stages.

Rocky’s last album, Testing, dropped way back in 2018. Since then, he’s remained relevant through collaborations, fashion ventures, and high-profile personal life moments, but his fans have been starving for a full-length solo project.

Now that Don’t Be Dumb has a firm timeline release date, let’s break down everything we know about the album, its themes, Rocky’s recent legal battles, and his growing dominance in the fashion industry.

The Long Road to ‘Don’t Be Dumb’

Rocky first hinted at Don’t Be Dumb nearly two years ago. Since then, updates have been sporadic, often leaving fans frustrated. In a recent GQ interview, he acknowledged the wait, saying:

“I think quite frankly, people are tired of hearing about updates about the album. They’re just ready to get this sht.”*

He’s not wrong. The anticipation for this project has been immense, especially since Testing was met with mixed reviews. While it showcased Rocky’s experimental nature, some fans wanted a return to the bouncy, slick raps that made him famous.

Now, with a definitive release date, Rocky is ready to deliver.

What to Expect from ‘Don’t Be Dumb’

1. A More Focused Sound

While Testing explored psychedelic and distorted sounds, Don’t Be Dumb is rumored to be a return to gritty New York rap, infused with Rocky’s signature artistic flair.

During his Paris Fashion Week event, the snippets he played featured hard-hitting drums and confident, braggadocious flows. This suggests a balance between lyrical storytelling and infectious beats.

2. Star-Studded Collaborations

ASAP Rocky has always had a knack for bringing together A-list talent on his projects. While the full tracklist remains under wraps, rumored collaborators include:

• Tyler, The Creator – A close friend of Rocky, their chemistry has been evident on past tracks like Potato Saladand Who Dat Boy.
• Rihanna – With his superstar partner heavily involved in his life, fans speculate she could appear on the album.
• Metro Boomin – A frequent collaborator, Metro’s cinematic beats could shape the album’s production.
• Playboi Carti – Rocky has hinted at working with Carti, a fellow trendsetter in modern rap.

3. Themes of Growth & Reflection

In his recent interviews, Rocky has spoken about how fatherhood and personal growth have changed his perspective. Expect Don’t Be Dumb to touch on:

• His relationship with Rihanna and their children
• Lessons learned from past legal issues
• The evolution of ASAP Mob
• His legacy in hip-hop and fashion

If executed well, this could be Rocky’s most personal and introspective project to date.

Legal Troubles: A Major Distraction

One of the biggest roadblocks delaying Don’t Be Dumb was Rocky’s high-profile assault trial.

In 2021, he was accused of firing a gun at ASAP Relli, a former member of the ASAP Mob. This led to two felony assault charges, carrying the potential for serious prison time.

Thankfully for Rocky, a Los Angeles court ruled in his favor earlier this month, clearing him of all charges. However, ASAP Relli is still pursuing a civil lawsuit, which could lead to financial penalties.

Despite this, Rocky is focused on moving forward. When the verdict was read, he reportedly jumped into Rihanna’s arms, a sign that he’s relieved to put this chapter behind him.

With the case settled, he can now fully shift his focus back to music and fashion.

ASAP Rocky’s Expanding Fashion Empire

While fans waited for Don’t Be Dumb, Rocky stayed busy by further solidifying his place in the fashion world.

1. Named First-Ever Creative Director for Ray-Ban

One of his biggest business moves came recently when Ray-Ban appointed him as their first-ever Creative Director.

In this role, Rocky will:

• Design new collections inspired by his signature style
• Oversee creative direction for the brand’s marketing campaigns
• Expand Ray-Ban’s influence in hip-hop fashion

This is just the latest in a long history of Rocky pushing fashion boundaries, from his work with Dior and Gucci to his own AWGE collective.

2. ‘American Sabotage’ Fashion Show

Rocky’s American Sabotage event at Paris Fashion Week wasn’t just about music—it was a full-blown artistic showcase. The show featured:

• High-fashion pieces with a rebellious edge
• Symbolic references to American culture
• New music previews, teasing ‘Don’t Be Dumb’

By blending fashion and music so seamlessly, Rocky continues to prove why he’s one of the most forward-thinking artists in hip-hop today.

ASAP Rocky’s Legacy: Music, Fashion & Influence

Since emerging in the early 2010s, ASAP Rocky has been one of the most innovative figures in hip-hop. His impact spans:

• Music – From Live.Love.ASAP to At.Long.Last.ASAP, he’s consistently pushed sonic boundaries.
• Fashion – His influence has shaped streetwear and high fashion for over a decade.
• Culture – His presence in both rap and luxury fashion makes him a unique crossover star.

With Don’t Be Dumb, he has the chance to reinforce his legacy as both a rap icon and cultural tastemaker.

Why ‘Don’t Be Dumb’ Will Win

Fans have waited six years for a new ASAP Rocky album. Now that the release date is locked in, expectations are at an all-time high.

If Don’t Be Dumb delivers:

• A refined sound blending classic Rocky with new influences
• Star-studded collaborations that feel fresh
• Deeper lyrical content reflecting his growth

…it could be one of the most defining albums of 2024.

With his legal troubles behind him, a fashion empire growing, and new music on the way, ASAP Rocky is ready for his biggest comeback yet.

Mark your calendars for August 30, 2024—because Don’t Be Dumb is about to shake up the rap world.