J. Cole solidified his status as a formidable talent with “Friday Night Lights.”
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TOP 5
5. You Got It (Ft. Wale)
Remember when Wale was on J. Cole’s level? That s**t was an eternity ago.
People always rave about J. Cole’s chemistry with Drake, but his dynamic with Wale deserves more attention. When they team up, they tend to create lively club anthems, and “You Got It” is no exception. Over smooth production featuring a seductive sample that might tempt you to shed a layer or two, Cole and Wale deliver their slickest game, letting the women they’re eyeing know they belong right by their side. Cole’s verse stands out for its animated delivery, while Wale impresses with some sharp and witty punchlines. That said, neither of them seems quite smooth enough to pull at Park at 14th.
4. See World
I think this might be J. Cole’s most impassioned performance ever.
There are a few elements in “See World” that give me chills. First, the news snippet about the little girl who was tragically killed by some truly disturbed individuals. Second, the hard-hitting production, which carries a dark, unsettling energy. And finally, J. Cole’s fiery delivery, where he blends profound lyrics covering everything from the story of the girl, to the prices on his head, battling inner demons, and the relentless grind to make it to the top. This is truly a masterpiece.
What the f**k did Sea World do to J. Cole?
3. Home For The Holidays
J. Cole clearly drew inspiration for this song’s theme from Just Friends with Ryan Reynolds.
I’m a big fan of J. Cole’s storytelling tracks where he usually comes across as a regular Joe, and “Home For The Holidays” is a prime example. Over a bombastic beat reminiscent of an ’80s cartoon theme song the theme to the Dennis The Menace show is what comes to mind), Cole shares the experience of coming back home for the holidays after college. He reflects on how some people have changed for the worse since high school, and how his romantic relationships have become more complicated. I love the laidback vibe in his verses as he smoothly rides the unique production, but what really stands out is the playful back-and-forth he has with the random woman in the chorus.
2. Cost Me A Lot
This beat was so lovely that Cole had to tackle it twice.
While it’s not exactly the same beat, there are definite similarities (I just can’t recall the specific track he repurposed it for at the moment). Beyond that standout beat, I vibe with Cole’s playfully aggressive rap style and the way the unexpected background vocals from the slave woman blend so uniquely with his sound. Lyrically, Cole focuses on the change in people’s behavior when someone like him achieves generational wealth, touching on the egos and attitudes that often come with it.
1. In The Morning
Do you brush your teeth before doing the nasty in the morning?
It’s a bit surprising that Drake and J. Cole, two rap powerhouses, chose to delve into such a personal subject matter in this track. That said, their performances are top-notch. Over smooth production complete with catchy hand claps, Cole and Drake detail their morning plans before brushing their teeth. Cole delivers his verses with an unfiltered, raw energy that doesn’t quite match the track’s laid-back vibe, while Drake leans into his sultry voice, which, as I hear, is a big hit with the ladies.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
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RGM RATING
(A-) (91%)
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
