2014 Forest Hills Drive

Born on a military base in Germany and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, J. Cole, whose full name is Jermaine Lamarr Cole, is a critically acclaimed rapper and record producer who has made a significant impact on the hip-hop scene. With a diverse musical upbringing, influenced by his mother's love for rock and folk and his father's appreciation for hardcore hip-hop icons like 2Pac and Ice Cube, Cole's music reflects a unique blend of styles and perspectives. He first caught the public's eye with his debut mixtape, "The Come Up," in 2007, and later signed with Jay-Z's Roc Nation in 2009. Cole's subsequent mixtapes, "The Warm Up" and "Friday Night Lights," further solidified his status as a rising star in the rap world. Known for his introspective lyrics and powerful storytelling, J. Cole has become one of the most respected voices in contemporary hip-hop, often engaging in meaningful conversations and addressing relevant social issues through his music. In addition to his solo work, Cole is also the founder of Dreamville Records, a label that has nurtured and launched the careers of several talented artists. His contributions to the genre have earned him multiple Grammy nominations, cementing his place as a influential figure in the music industry.