Media scrutiny strikes again. ASAP Rocky kicks off 2026 by drawing a clear line between human creativity and digital shortcuts. The rapper’s new music video for “Helicopter,” released on Jan. 12, arrives with a poignant explanation of how it was made and why it’s important.
After the visual was released, there was speculation online that artificial intelligence played a role in the visual. Rocky addressed the chatter directly and emphasized the project’s human origins. “This video is not AI-generated! This video is not AI-generated!” he wrote, emphasizing that statement by calling the work “just generic.”
Directed by Dan Streit, the video combines bold imagery and stylized animation, continuing Rocky’s long-standing interest in visual experimentation. “Helicopter” features Playboi Carti and will appear on Rocky’s upcoming fourth studio album, Don’t Be Damn. The song follows another recent release, “Punk Rocky,” which expanded the album’s visual universe with appearances by Winona Ryder, Danny Elfman, Thundercat, A$AP Nast, and more.
Ryder’s involvement is also a nod to Rocky’s creative relationship with filmmaker Tim Burton. The relationship previously surfaced when Rocky shared Burton-inspired cover art for Don’t Be Dumb. Rocky reflected on that collaboration in a past interview, recalling Burton’s reaction to the music:
With “Helicopter,” Rocky places himself firmly on the side of intentional, practical creation. At a time when digital tools have increasingly obscured authorship, artists are using this release to reinforce their belief that originality and personal vision still define lasting work.
