A$AP Rocky is building anticipation for his upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb, with the release of his new single, “Helicopter$.” The Harlem rapper’s second single from the project follows the indie rock-influenced “Punk Rocky,” both showcasing his focus on early 2000s aesthetics. Rocky combines nostalgic sounds with striking visuals, demonstrating his skill at turning a vibe into a full artistic experience.
“Helicopter$” continues Rocky’s vintage video game theme, drawing inspiration from the original Grand Theft Auto. The cover art and music video reflect blocky, pixelated graphics, bringing a playful, retro energy. The three-minute video follows Rocky through chaotic scenes, including a boxing gym, a church roof, and a helicopter, while a SWAT team chases him and his crew, mirroring GTA’s wanted level mechanics. The video ends humorously with Rocky being shot out of the helicopter in a cartoonish, over-the-top fashion.
Fans have had mixed reactions to the single. Some welcomed Rocky carrying the track solo, while others were disappointed that Playboi Carti, previously speculated to feature, does not appear. Carti may still appear elsewhere on the 17-track album, given his history with Rocky and the A$AP Mob in the late 2010s.
Don’t Be Dumb is scheduled for release on Friday, January 16, marking Rocky’s fourth studio album. The project has already generated strong early interest, with 130,000 vinyl copies reportedly sold. “Helicopter$” is among several singles Rocky has shared, including “Highjack,” “Tailor Swif,” “Ruby Rosary,” “Pray4DaGang,” and “Punk Rocky.”
Earlier in the rollout, Rocky partnered with financial company Bilt to release an exclusive vinyl edition of the album. The 15-track, 2LP set moves through genres including Jazz, Hip-Hop, Metal, Indie, and R&B, each track representing a different mood or moment, showcasing Rocky’s range.
With “Helicopter$” live and a clear release date for Don’t Be Dumb, fans can expect a project that blends nostalgia, creativity, and Rocky’s signature musical versatility, setting the stage for a strong debut.
