J. Cole – The Come Up Mixtape Vol. 1 (Album Review)

You just knew J. Cole had next while listening to this project.

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TOP 5

5. School Daze

J. Cole was a popular kid, wasn’t he?

J. Cole’s storytelling brilliance shines in “School Daze,” a track powered by a nostalgic, soulful beat complete with a persistent horn that I want to swat with a flycatcher. Over this vintage production, Cole takes us back to his high school years, painting vivid pictures of lunchtime antics, smooth-talking his way with girls, the dread of SATs he was sure he’d bomb, and watching friendships fade as high school came to an end. What makes the track so special is how witty and relatable Cole’s narration is, capturing experiences that mirror what so many of us went through in our own dusty high school hallways.

4. Dead Presidents

The legend of J. Cole was born with his “Dead Presidents” freestyles.

J. Cole’s take on the “Dead Presidents” beat showcased his raw talent and hunger early in his career. While his recent renditions of the track might display a more polished sound, this version still hits hard. What makes it stand out is the effortless way Cole delivers his bars, diving into everything that fuels his ambition—most of which revolve around chasing money and success. It’s also interesting how his delivery shifts, blending the brash confidence of a young upstart with shades of Lupe Fiasco’s introspective lyricism.

3. College Boy

Remember when we thought J. Cole was going to be Kanye West reincarnated?

J. Cole was supposed to be the college guy who graduated, unlike Kanye West, who dropped out. We all know Cole pivoted to a hippy eventually. Nevertheless, in “College Boy,” he sounds like a dude who loved all that college had to offer; including the horny women, nosey roommates, and classes he could care less about passing. As someone who graduated from college a few years back, I got some serious flashbacks listening to this s**t; that’s why I appreciate it. I also appreciate the extra riveting beat and how Cole has fun with the s**t.

2. Dollar & A Dream

That dollar turned into several millions.

“Dollar & A Dream” is a track that only a select few artists can pull off, and J. Cole is undoubtedly on that shortlist alongside names like Jay-Z. Backed by a soulful beat reminiscent of old-school Kanye or Just Blaze, J. Cole dives in with fearless determination, showcasing an unrelenting, unkillable drive to achieve his dreams. Interestingly, the song doesn’t come across as being about wealth alone—it feels more like an anthem for accomplishing goals purely for the fulfillment of doing so. What stands out is Cole’s undeniable pizazz, commanding energy, and sharp delivery.

1. Simba

Nah, Simba never had bars this deadly.

The hunger J. Cole exhibits in “Simba” is as intense as Tyrese in his most dramatic roles. With an aggressive and assertive delivery, Cole makes it crystal clear that becoming a king is not just a dream—it’s a plan in motion. His unflappable flow and raw determination radiate through every bar, sending a strong message for the “peons” in the game to step aside. Complementing his fiery performance is a riveting beat, packed with cinematic energy, the kind of production you can imagine shaking the earth or splitting a mountain in two.