Last week delivered one of the most impactful rap release lineups of the year. The biggest moment came from A$AP Rocky, who officially released Don’t Be Dumb, his first studio album in eight years. The long wait created high expectations, and the project meets them with confidence.
Don’t Be Dumb is a wide ranging body of work that reflects Rocky’s evolution as both an artist and curator. The album blends gritty rap, experimental sounds and melodic detours. Rocky moves comfortably between styles, showing sharp focus and creative control throughout.
The guest list is stacked. Tyler, The Creator, Westside Gunn, Doechii, Brent Faiyaz and Sauce Walka all appear. The album also stretches beyond hip hop with contributions from Damon Albarn, will.i.am, Jessica Pratt and Slay Squad. Danny Elfman and Tim Burton add cinematic elements that give the project a darker, film like texture.
Industry projections point to Don’t Be Dumb earning A$AP Rocky his third number one debut on the Billboard 200. If that happens, it will confirm his ability to return after a long absence without losing cultural impact.
NBA YoungBoy followed with the release of Slime Cry, a project that had faced repeated delays. The album adds another chapter to his already massive catalog and keeps his momentum intact. Slime Cry balances emotional themes with hard hitting production. Burna Boy and Jelly Roll provide the only guest features, bringing contrast to YoungBoy’s raw delivery. The album reinforces his formula of consistency, volume and a deeply loyal fanbase.
Wiz Khalifa kept things unpredictable with the surprise release of Khaotic. The album arrived without a major rollout and leans into his familiar laid back style. Khaotic includes features from 2 Chainz, Juicy J, Dave East, Skilla Baby, HoodRich Pablo Juan and RMR. A standout moment comes from the appearance of Max B, who recently returned home. The project feels like a statement of longevity, reminding listeners that Wiz remains active and connected to different eras of rap.
The singles released last week carried serious weight. Gunna teamed up with Chris Brown for the remix of “wgft.” Produced by Turbo and Shottie, the track adds a smoother, more radio friendly edge while keeping the original’s momentum intact.
Maxo Kream linked with Denzel Curry and JPEGMAFIA on “Fake Jeezy.” JPEGMAFIA also handled production, delivering an aggressive and unpredictable sound that fits all three artists.
Veeze continued his rise with “One of Them Ones,” featuring Lil Baby and Rylo Rodriguez. The track highlights his growing presence in mainstream rap, backed by sharp production from Desmos and Wana.
Fivio Foreign dropped “Sexy” featuring Tory Lanez and Lil Tjay. Jill Scott released “Don’t Play,” adding soulful balance to the week. Ella Mai returned with “100,” produced by Mustard, offering polished R and B.
Joyner Lucas shared “Monsters,” showcasing technical rapping over layered production. PlaqueBoyMax and Bryson Tiller connected on “wyd.” Gorillaz released two new tracks featuring Tony Allen, Bizarrap, Kara Jackson and Anoushka Shankar.
Serial Killers returned with “This Thing Of Ours.” Deante’ Hitchcock released “Reminders” with 6LACK, Childish Major and Anna Field. Buddy teamed up with KEY! and CUZZOS on “Ass Match the Legs.” Grafh, Styles P, 38 Spesh and Mitchy Slick collaborated on “Outside.”
GENA, made up of Liv.e and Karriem Riggins, released “Lead It Up.” Gabriel Jacoby dropped “gutta child.” Lexa Gates closed out the week with her project I Am.
Last week captured the full range of modern rap. You saw major comebacks, long delayed projects and emerging artists pushing forward. A$AP Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb anchored the moment, but the depth of releases across albums and singles made the week essential listening for any rap fan.
