A$AP Rocky surprised fans at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival with an unexpected taste of his forthcoming single “Don’t Be Dumb,” debuting not on a traditional stage but amidst the glamour of one of cinema’s most prestigious events. The New Yorker’s latest musical preview arrived during the red-carpet festivities and an exclusive Ray-Ban after-party, offering a first glimpse of the sound that will define his next era.
While attending the premiere of his highly anticipated film Highest 2 Lowest on May 21, Rocky and longtime partner Rihanna were spotted backstage at a Ray-Ban-hosted after-party. As the DJ cued up an unreleased track, the crowd fell silent when a dance-infused beat filled the air—revealing the first snippet of “Don’t Be Dumb.” The quick 20-second clip showcased heavy bass hits, swirling synths and Rocky’s laid-back flow, hinting at a club-ready anthem that nods to his reputation as hip-hop’s fashion-forward trailblazer.
Earlier that evening, under a light drizzle on the Croisette, another snippet of “Don’t Be Dumb” played as Rocky and Rihanna made their way past film world icons including Denzel Washington and Spike Lee. Cameras flashed as the rain-slick carpet set the stage for a moment that blended cinema and music culture. Fans who caught wind of the track online noted the sound was reminiscent of “Fashion Killa,” marrying melodic swagger with rhythmic punch—proof that Rocky is poised to redefine the crossover between his musical craft and his cinematic ambitions.
Cannes marks a milestone for Rocky, who stars in Highest 2 Lowest—his largest acting undertaking to date. The film follows an aspiring fashion designer navigating New York’s elite circles, a role that feels tailor-made for the rapper whose influence spans runways and record charts alike. In interviews leading up to the festival, Rocky revealed he auditioned for a Star Wars role around a decade ago. “I auditioned for Star Wars—for Lando—and my audition was trash. I was trash that day,” he admitted candidly, praising Donald Glover’s portrayal as a more fitting choice: “My man Childish Gambino was a way better Lando than I would’ve provided at that time. And I think he looked a little more like [Billy Dee Williams] than me.”
During a chat with Variety on the film’s set, Rocky offered a surprising nugget about co-star Denzel Washington’s off-camera soundtrack: “Denzel would pull up to the movie set playing Pooh Shiesty and Moneybagg Yo—modern Memphis rappers—then start quoting NLE Choppa. I’m like, ‘You know NLE Choppa?!’ He like, ‘I don’t do drive-bys now, walk ’em down.’ I’m like, ‘Yo, Denzel, chill!’ It was crazy, he’s really tapped in, man.”
Early impressions of the snippet suggest “Don’t Be Dumb” will champion high-energy percussion, catchy vocal loops and Rocky’s trademark stylish confidence. The track’s club-ready vibe could signal a summer release aimed at festival season and playlists alike. With Rihanna’s presence at Cannes—herself no stranger to musical teases—fans are already speculating that she may make a cameo in the full video or even contribute vocals when the single officially drops.
Highest 2 Lowest premieres in cinemas on August 22 and lands on Apple TV+ September 5, but details for “Don’t Be Dumb” remain sparse. Industry insiders predict a late-June launch to capitalize on summer listening trends, while some suggest Rocky might unveil the full track during his rumored fall tour. Whatever the timeline, this Cannes debut has set the bar high: “Don’t Be Dumb” promises to blend Rocky’s fashion-meets-music ethos with the cinematic flair of his newest film, marking another chapter in his multifaceted career.
