After years of anticipation, J. Cole has released his seventh studio album, “The Fall Off.” The 24-song project tackles a range of subjects, including the 2024 beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, and Cole’s own spiritual reflections.
Cole stated his aim with this album was to “prove himself once again.” Early reviews from publications like Soul in Stereo, Billboard, and Complex suggest he may have succeeded.
Shots at Your Favorite Rapper
On the track “Two Six,” Cole employs a common hip-hop tactic, directly addressing and challenging other rappers. He raps, “Caught a lot of bodies, so my closet, it got skeletons/ Don’t believe me? Call your favorite rapper for the evidence/ Rolls-Royce, please don’t sell these rappers no more Cullinans/ They unoriginal, and plus I know they don’t be budgeting.”
Calling Out Congress
Throughout “The Fall Off,” Cole frequently references his hometown of Fayetteville, N.C., and addresses systemic issues impacting the Black community there. On “Bunce Road Blues,” he speaks to the challenges faced by young Black men involved in crime.
Cole raps, “Why in the f**k do we sense that n****s that’s lookin’ like us who deserve to be killed?/ Meanwhile Capitol Hill been makin’ it easy for them to travel stuff us in cells.”
Addressing Drake and Kendrick Beef
Cole previously became involved in the 2024 dispute between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, later apologizing for his participation. On the song “What If,” he revisits the theme of conflict, but through a hypothetical scenario.
Instead of directly addressing the Drake-Lamar situation, Cole imagines a resolution to the conflict between Tupac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. He raps verses in the styles of both artists, suggesting a path toward reconciliation. As Biggie, he raps, “The streets is a bit upset/You claimin’ that you f**ked my bi**h…But, check, instead of escalatin’/At a time when ni**as say ‘Substantial, let’s decimate ’em/I’m tellin’ em chill ’cause although he violatin’/In my heart, I could never hate ’em/I love you.”
Talking to God?
On “39 Intro,” Cole explores themes of faith, and spirituality. He raps, “Play my song when I’m gone, I’ma still be a myth/ Even God gon’ wonder how the f**k did he exist?/ I imply, could he have just slipped through the cracks?/ Ain’t let a n***a into heaven so I went through the back/ And when I entered, I saw a old friend that I dapped/ He said, ‘Please, n***a, kick one of them infinite raps.’”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of J. Cole’s latest album?
J. Cole’s latest album is titled “The Fall Off.”
What topics does the album address?
The album addresses topics including the beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, systemic issues facing the Black community, and Cole’s relationship with God.
What did reviewers say about the album?
Reviews from Soul in Stereo, Billboard, and Complex suggest that J. Cole accomplished his goal of proving himself with this project.
Given the album’s wide-ranging themes and lyrical complexity, how do you reckon “The Fall Off” will resonate with listeners?
