J. Cole is arguably one of the most successful rappers of our generation. Setting records with each release, his albums have shifted the hip-hop genre significantly. To match his rap talents, J. Cole is also a highly sought-after producer. Some of J. Cole’s best songs have been written and produced by him.
With some of the biggest names in the industry on his side, Cole has been able to explore his artistry. Starting with an Indie rap/mainstream flair, the North Carolina native’s career trajectory seemingly matched his friend and frequent collaborator, Drake. As he continued to make music, he gravitated toward conscious rap.
The 38-year-old, who celebrated his birthday on Jan. 28, 2024, has released six studio albums. Unlike most rappers, each project has earned critical acclaim. In fact, J. Cole is the first musician to achieve platinum certification on an album with no features. All his albums have been certified platinum by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America). So, it’s no surprise that J. Cole is considered one of the best rappers in the game today. In honor of his birthday, here are some of J. Cole’s best songs!
1. She Knows (feat. Amber Coffman & Cults)
J. Cole’s second album, “Born Sinner,” was released in 2013. It was highly successful, as it charted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The album held many hit singles, including “She Knows,” featuring Amber Coffman & Cults.
The song’s themes surround infidelity and lies. It is often used in memes and videos on social media to describe various scenarios. The music video was popular amongst fans, as the storyline was intriguing.
2. Middle Child
In 2019, J. Cole released the single “Middle Child.” He added the song to the “Revenge of the Dreamers” compilation album. The song’s lyrics discuss J. Cole’s place in the rap game. He has been in the music industry long enough to see rappers come and go, yet he still has many elite rappers guiding him.
Essentially, Cole represents the middle child of hip-hop. He demands respect for his accomplishments, understands those younger than him, and still idolizes those who came before him.
3. Power Trip (feat. Miguel)
“Power Trip” was released on the rapper’s sophomore album and is one of his most recognizable songs. The song features Miguel, making this the second collaboration the pair has done together.
According to Genius, the lyrics describe Cole’s love for a girl and the lengths he will go to be with her — including death, which is showcased in the music video for the track. The song comes as an addition to “Dreams,” a song from one of his early mixtapes, “Warm Up.”
4. Wet Dreamz
On the tracklist of one of Cole’s most beloved albums, “2014 Forest Hill Drive,” “Wet Dreamz” showed a different side of the conscious rapper. The lyrics were playful and nostalgic. While he usually leans towards serious storytelling with depth, the rapper was able to switch it up.
The song reminisces about the experience of being with someone for the first time. Cole’s manager later revealed that the story was not true and did not actually describe any of his sexual experiences.
5. No Role Modelz
As one of the singles from “2014 Forest Hills Drive,” this song has been certified platinum six times by the RIAA. “No Role Modelz” dives deep into the rapper’s thoughts on his lack of role models growing up. He also provides commentary on the women who are often idolized in society.
“No Role Modelz” produces some of the most recited lines in Cole’s repertoire, solidifying it as one of J. Cole’s best songs. The song received mixed reviews from critics but remains a fan favorite.
6. Crooked Smile (feat. TLC)
Soliciting the vocals of the R&B group TLC, Cole released the hit single “Crooked Smile” in 2013. The song motivates people to love themselves despite their flaws. The father of two remains vulnerable on the record as he discusses his past insecurities related to his teeth and smiles.
J. Cole has provided many thought-provoking and feel-good songs during his career. He stays true to himself, his craft, and his school of thought. He inspires many upcoming rappers as he leaves it all in his music.
What are some of J. Cole’s best songs? Let us know in the comments below.
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