J. Cole, born Jermaine Lamarr Cole, is an acclaimed American rapper and record producer who has made a significant impact on the music scene. Born on a military base in Germany and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Cole's journey to stardom began with the release of his debut mixtape, "The Come Up," in 2007. His talent quickly caught the attention of industry heavyweights, leading to a signing with Jay-Z's Roc Nation in 2009. With critically acclaimed mixtapes like "The Warm Up" and "Friday Night Lights," Cole built a dedicated fanbase and established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the rap world. His official debut album, "Cole World: The Sideline Story," topped the charts, solidifying his status as a leading voice in hip-hop. Known for his introspective lyrics and powerful storytelling, J. Cole continues to release influential music, including his latest album, "The Off-Season." His live performances are legendary, with notable shows like his sold-out concert at Madison Square Garden, where he offered tickets for just $1. Beyond his music, Cole's influence extends to discussions about his rank among the greatest rappers of all time, a testament to his enduring impact on the genre.