A$AP Rocky will begin 2026 in the spotlight after being confirmed as the first musical guest of the year on Saturday Night Live. The Harlem rapper is scheduled to appear on the January 17, 2026 episode, just one day after the release of his fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb.
The announcement was made during the December 20 episode of SNL, which featured Cher as the musical guest and Ariana Grande as host. Rocky’s upcoming episode will be hosted by Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard, setting the stage for what is expected to be one of the show’s most closely watched performances of the new year.
Perfect Timing for a Live Album Debut
Rocky’s return to the iconic Studio 8H comes at a strategic moment. Don’t Be Dumb is set for release on January 16, 2026, giving fans a rare opportunity to hear brand-new material performed live almost immediately.
While the full tracklist and featured artists have not yet been revealed, the album has already generated strong anticipation. Rocky confirmed the release date and formats on social media on December 19, writing that the project will be available on vinyl, CD, cassette and digital platforms.
The album is expected to be a double-disc release, with 15 tracks on the first disc and two tracks on the second. Which songs will make their live debut on SNL remains a matter of speculation, but expectations are high.
A Familiar Stage for the Harlem Rapper
This will not be Rocky’s first appearance on Saturday Night Live. He made his debut on the show in May 2018, appearing in a sketch hosted by Donald Glover alongside cast members Chris Redd and Kenan Thompson. The skit humorously centred on forming a rap group, drawing comparisons to Migos, before Rocky made a cameo as himself.
Nearly eight years later, he returns as a more seasoned artist, armed with a new album and a renewed focus on his music.
High Stakes, High Visibility
Releasing an album one day and performing it live on one of television’s most influential platforms the next is a bold move, but one Rocky appears comfortable making. The SNL performance will offer fans a first real glimpse into the sound and direction of Don’t Be Dumb, while also placing the rapper firmly at the centre of pop culture conversation as the year begins.
If the aim is to start 2026 with momentum, A$AP Rocky has chosen his moment well.
