A$AP Rocky is preparing to embark on a worldwide tour supporting his new album, Don’t Be Dumb. He recently discussed the collaborative process behind the album’s cover art, revealing a multi-year effort to work with filmmaker Tim Burton.
Securing a Visionary Collaboration
Rocky described a persistent approach to Burton, stating he had to “stalk and harass” the director for several years to gain his attention. He initially reached out hoping to simply “hang out and share some vibes,” eventually playing Burton an early version of the album during the director’s break in Malibu. Burton agreed to illustrate the cover, though his existing commitments to projects like Wednesday and Beetlejuice 2 meant the project timeline would be extended.
During a visit with Burton, Rocky observed the director sketching with his daughter each morning. Burton explained this was a daily practice, combining artistic expression with family time. Rocky characterized this as a meaningful display of care, creativity, and mentorship.
New Music and Tour Dates
Alongside the details of the album cover’s creation, Rocky released music videos for “WHISKEY” and “BLACK DEMARCO,” both incorporating Burton’s artistic style. The release of these videos coincided with the announcement of the Don’t Be Dumb World Tour, scheduled for 2026.
The tour will consist of 42 dates across North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. It represents a significant moment in Rocky’s career, offering fans a live experience of his latest work and further establishing his position as a musical innovator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did A$AP Rocky initially connect with Tim Burton?
Rocky said he reached out to Burton with the intention of simply spending time together and sharing his music, eventually playing him an early version of the album in Malibu.
What projects was Tim Burton working on while collaborating with A$AP Rocky?
Burton was simultaneously working on Wednesday and Beetlejuice 2, which impacted the timeline for completing the album cover illustration.
What did A$AP Rocky observe about Tim Burton’s creative process?
Rocky noticed Burton sketching with his daughter every morning, a practice Burton described as a way to blend artistry with family bonding.
As A$AP Rocky prepares to take his latest album on the road, how might this collaboration with Tim Burton influence the visual elements of his live performances?
