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A$AP Rocky is going into 2026 strong as the rapper is set to kick off 2026 with a highly anticipated performance as the first musical guest of the year on Saturday Night Live (SNL).
The episode, airing on January 17th, will feature Rocky performing songs from his new album, Don't Be Dumb, which releases just one day earlier on January 16th. The album marks Rocky's fourth studio release and has been eagerly awaited by fans for over seven years.
The SNL episode will be hosted by Finn Wolfhard, known for his role as Mike Wheeler in Stranger Things, and comes shortly after the highly-anticipated series finale. This appearance marks a significant moment for Rocky, who first appeared on SNL in May 2018 during a sketch with Donald Glover, Chris Redd, and Kenan Thompson. Now, he returns with fresh music that fans have been eagerly anticipating.
NBC announced Rocky's performance during the December 20th episode of SNL, hosted by Ariana Grande and featuring Cher. Rocky himself confirmed the album release date on Instagram, saying, "JAN. 16th, 2026, DON’T BE DUMB VINYLS, CDs, CASSETTES, AND DIGITAL DSPs AVAILABLE. THANKS TO EVERY CREATIVE AND MUSICIAN WHO HELPED ME WITH THIS MASTERPIECE."
Adding to the excitement, Rocky recently revealed the album cover art designed by Tim Burton, featuring multiple versions of Rocky and a bold "no" symbol. The cover art aligns with the cinematic world Rocky is creating around 'Don't Be Dumb.'
