A$AP Rocky’s fourth full album Don’t Be Dumb disappoints by comparison

By Staff Writer Varun Madhavan

Following an eight-year hiatus from feature-length albums, American rapper and record producer A$AP Rocky returned with a personal story told within 15 new tracks as part of his fourth studio album Don’t Be Dumb. Released on January 16, his album’s setlist aims to continue the style, quality, and experience Rocky has built for his nearly two-decade-long career.

At its core, Don’t Be Dumb serves as a testament to Rocky’s personal history, giving the audience a feeling of immersion and understanding; Rocky’s unstable childhood growing up in Harlem is echoed in his work, specifically in songs such as “ROBBERY” and “STOP SNITCHING.” Through lyrical choices that reference Rocky’s childhood, paired with fast-paced beats, the two aforementioned songs highlight the desperation and conflict Rocky experienced throughout his childhood in Harlem. which pushed him into criminal activities at a young age. A key example of this is in “ROBBERY,” he sings: “New York, eat a glizzy, now these n****s hot, dog,” where Rocky creatively makes reference to Harlem slang —a hot dog as a Glock firearm. In addition, the arrangement of the tracks feels intentional, emphasizing the story and self-development Rocky aims to portray. The album opens with subtle trap and jazz-inspired beats in the tracks “ORDER OF PROTECTION” and “INTERROGATION (SKIT)” showing Rocky’s defensiveness and distrust built from his past. 

The featured artists on this album serve as a testament to Rocky’s progress, showcasing the people he’s met on his journey. As such, one of this album’s main draws is the collaborations woven in. From Brent Faiyaz and Tyler, The Creator to will.i.amA$AP Rocky’s fourth full album Don’t Be Dumb feels dumb at times, the selection of famous collaborators is vast, and each featured artist successfully adds nuance and character to the tracks they are featured on. Tyler, The Creator’s feature on “FISH N STEAK (WHAT IT IS)” is particularly memorable, where Tyler, The Creator’s comedic,  lighthearted words balance the chorus’s serious tone. Similarly, on “STAY HERE 4 LIFE,” Faiyaz adds soulful vocals to balance Rocky’s rap. Lyrics from Faiyaz’s calmer solo — “I wish that I could stay here for life” — starkly contrast Rocky’s aggressive lyrics that follow: “This is just a quick one for you dumb, narrow -minded m************s out there / I am not a player,” not only building the plot, but creating variety and ultimately a more unique listening experience. Rocky’s parts, on their own, however, often fall flat. None of Rocky’s solos from this album compares to previous hits such as “Fashion Killa” and “I Smoked Away My Brain (I’m God x Demons Mashup),” which hold deeper meanings behind lyrics complemented by more catchy beats. Don’t Be Dumb feels like Rocky is screaming at the audience instead of truly performing, resulting in a lack of proper melody in many songs, notably in “HELICOPTER.” Although the aggression is intended to coincide with the overarching story, it feels excessive in some tracks, creating a repetitive listening experience that almost feels grating at times.

Don’t Be Dumb had the potential to tell a compelling narrative of A$AP Rocky’s unique history, yet fell flat in its execution. However, with its intentional structuring, blending of genres, and excellent collaborative features, the album ended as neither a complete failure nor a complete success, but a compelling and complete story of A$AP Rocky’s past. 

Grade: B-