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Amid Diss Speculation, Ab-Soul Affirms J. Cole as a Genuine Homie

Amid Diss Speculation, Ab-Soul Affirms J. Cole as a Genuine Homie

Photo by Marcela Laskoski on Unsplash

Ab-Soul, the lyrical mastermind behind tracks that make your brain cells do backflips, decided it was high time to clear the air about his relationship with J. Cole. And boy, did he deliver! In an era where social media can turn a molehill into a mountain faster than you can say “retweet,” Ab-Soul’s straightforward approach is like a breath of fresh air in a room full of smoke and mirrors.

Now, you might be wondering, “What’s all the fuss about?” Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to take a wild ride through the twists and turns of this hip-hop saga. From collaborative tracks that never saw the light of day to surprise features that had fans losing their minds, we’re going to unpack it all. And trust me, by the time we’re done, you’ll have a front-row seat to one of the most intriguing stories in recent hip-hop history.

So, whether you’re a die-hard Ab-Soul stan, a J. Cole aficionado, or just someone who loves a good story, stick around. We’re about to delve into a tale of friendship, respect, and the complex web of relationships that make the hip-hop world go round. Get ready to have your perceptions challenged, your assumptions shattered, and your mind blown. This isn’t just another rap beef story – it’s a masterclass in how real G’s handle their business.

The Genesis of the Rumors

Let’s rewind the tape and set the scene for this epic tale. Picture this: the hip-hop world is buzzing like a beehive that’s been poked with a stick. Rumors are flying faster than Eminem’s rap speed, and at the center of it all? Our man Ab-Soul and the one and only J. Cole.

It all started with a track – isn’t that how these things always kick off? Ab-Soul dropped a banger called “Squeeze 1st 2,” and suddenly, everyone and their grandma was playing detective. You see, in this track, Ab-Soul spits some fire that had folks raising their eyebrows higher than a Botox addict. He rapped, “Metasota warned me they wanna war / But actually they forfeiting.” Now, to the untrained ear, this might sound like just another dope line. But in the hyper-analytical world of hip-hop, where fans dissect every syllable like it’s a frog in a high school biology class, this was seen as a potential shot at J. Cole.

Why, you ask? Well, buckle up, because this is where it gets juicy. This track dropped on the same day that J. Cole released “Port Antonio,” a song where Cole addressed his decision to bow out of the ongoing beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Coincidence? In the hip-hop world, there’s no such thing, baby!

The timing was too perfect, too synchronized. It was like watching two trains heading towards each other on the same track. Fans and critics alike started connecting dots that may or may not have been there. Was Ab-Soul calling out Cole for “forfeiting” the beef? Was this a subliminal diss wrapped in wordplay?

The internet, being the internet, went wild. Twitter threads longer than a CVS receipt started popping up, breaking down every word, every pause, every breath in Ab-Soul’s track. YouTube videos with titles like “AB-SOUL DESTROYS J. COLE?!” racked up views faster than you can say “clickbait.”

But here’s the kicker – in the world of hip-hop, perception is often reality. It doesn’t matter if Ab-Soul meant to diss Cole or not. Once the rumor mill starts churning, it’s harder to stop than a runaway freight train. The narrative was set: Ab-Soul vs. J. Cole, the battle no one saw coming.

And so, the stage was set for one of the most intriguing stories in recent hip-hop memory. Two respected lyricists, both known for their intricate wordplay and deep cuts, seemingly at odds. It was like watching two chess grandmasters square off – you knew the moves were coming, but you couldn’t quite figure out what they’d be.

But as we’ll soon see, in the world of hip-hop, things are rarely as they seem. This story was about to take more twists and turns than a roller coaster designed by M.C. Escher. So strap in, because we’re just getting started on this wild ride through the complex, fascinating, and often misunderstood world of hip-hop relationships.

Ab-Soul’s Clarification

Now, let’s cut to the chase and dive into the meat of this story – Ab-Soul’s much-needed clarification. In an interview that had hip-hop heads glued to their screens like it was the season finale of their favorite Netflix show, Ab-Soul decided to set the record straight. And boy, did he deliver!

First things first, Ab-Soul came out swinging with a statement that hit harder than a Mike Tyson right hook: “Cole is the homie for real, that’s what I want to make very clear to the whole world.” Boom! Just like that, he took all those rumors and speculation and dropkicked them into next week. It was like watching a master magician reveal the trick behind the illusion – suddenly, all those conspiracy theories about a beef between Ab-Soul and J. Cole started to look as flimsy as a house of cards in a hurricane.

But Ab-Soul didn’t stop there. Oh no, he was on a roll, and he wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip through his fingers like a greased-up football. He went on to explain that in the world of hip-hop, words like “friend” and “homie” get thrown around more loosely than spare change at a wishing well. But when it comes to J. Cole? Ab-Soul made it crystal clear that this wasn’t just some surface-level, industry schmoozing type of friendship. This was the real deal, the kind of bond that survives the fickle tides of the music industry.

Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, but what about that track? What about ‘Squeeze 1st 2’?” Well, hold onto your hats, because Ab-Soul had an explanation for that too. He revealed that the track wasn’t some calculated diss aimed at J. Cole. In fact, it wasn’t even about Cole at all. It was just Ab-Soul doing what Ab-Soul does best – spitting fire lyrics that make you think, that make you rewind and listen again, trying to unpack all the layers of meaning.

But here’s where it gets really interesting. Ab-Soul didn’t just deny the beef – he went a step further and opened up about his actual relationship with J. Cole. He talked about collaborations that were in the works, about mutual respect, about the admiration he has for Cole’s skills on the mic. It was like watching someone peel back the curtain on a world that most of us only get glimpses of through social media and carefully crafted public personas.

In essence, Ab-Soul’s clarification wasn’t just about squashing rumors. It was a masterclass in how to handle misunderstandings in the public eye. No drama, no Twitter rants, no subliminal disses. Just straight talk, respect, and a reminder that in the world of hip-hop, things aren’t always what they seem.

So there you have it, folks. The great Ab-Soul vs. J. Cole beef of 2023 – a beef that never was. It’s a reminder that in this age of hot takes and instant reactions, sometimes it pays to sit back, take a breath, and wait for the full story. Because as Ab-Soul showed us, the truth is often far more interesting – and far more positive – than the rumors.

The “FOMF” Collaboration That Never Was

Alright, let’s dive into the juicy details of a collaboration that could have been but never quite materialized. We’re talking about the track “FOMF” from Ab-Soul’s 2022 album “Herbert.” Now, this isn’t just any old track we’re discussing – this is the one that almost featured the lyrical prowess of J. Cole himself. Yeah, you heard that right. J. Cole was supposed to be on this joint, and the fact that it didn’t happen is a story in itself.

Picture this: Ab-Soul, the master wordsmith, crafting what would become “FOMF.” He’s in the studio, laying down verses that would make even the most seasoned English professor’s head spin. And in his mind, he’s hearing J. Cole’s voice, imagining how the North Carolina rapper would complement his own intricate wordplay. It’s a hip-hop dream team in the making.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Ab-Soul reveals that he actually played the album for Cole. Not just a track or two, but the whole damn thing. And guess what? Cole picked “FOMF” as the one he wanted to jump on. It’s like watching two chess grandmasters recognizing each other’s genius moves. Cole heard something in that track that spoke to him, that ignited that creative spark.

But here’s the kicker – it never happened. The collaboration that hip-hop heads would have sold their left sneaker for just… didn’t materialize. Ab-Soul, in his characteristically candid manner, admits, “I bugged him about it!” You can almost picture it – Ab-Soul blowing up Cole’s phone, sending carrier pigeons, maybe even considering smoke signals. All in the name of getting that verse.

So what happened? Well, that’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? In the world of hip-hop, where schedules are as packed as a Tokyo subway during rush hour, and creative inspiration can be as fleeting as a summer romance, sometimes things just don’t line up. Maybe Cole got busy with his own projects. Maybe the timing wasn’t right. Or maybe, just maybe, the hip-hop gods decided to save this collaboration for another day, another track.

But here’s the beautiful thing about Ab-Soul’s revelation – there’s no bitterness, no resentment. Instead, there’s understanding and respect. Ab-Soul doesn’t throw Cole under the bus or make excuses. He simply acknowledges that sometimes, in this crazy world of music, things don’t always go as planned.

And let’s be real for a second – how many of us can say we’ve had J. Cole pick our track as the one he wants to feature on? That alone is a badge of honor, a testament to Ab-Soul’s skill as a lyricist and producer. It’s like getting a nod of approval from the hip-hop equivalent of a Jedi Master.

So while we may never get to hear what “FOMF” would have sounded like with J. Cole’s verse, we’re left with something perhaps even more valuable – a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of hip-hop collaborations. It’s a world of mutual respect, of artistic recognition, and yes, sometimes of missed connections.

The Kendrick Lamar Connection

If you thought this tale couldn’t get any more star-studded, think again. We’re about to dive into how K-Dot himself fits into this intricate web of hip-hop relationships.

First off, let’s set the scene. Ab-Soul and Kendrick Lamar go way back. We’re talking shared-a-pack-of-Ramen-noodles-in-the-studio kind of back. These two have been friends and collaborators for years, part of the same TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment) family that’s been pumping out hits faster than a factory on overdrive. So when Ab-Soul says he sent “Pi” to Kendrick, it’s not just some random act of music sharing. It’s like showing your older brother your report card – you’re looking for that nod of approval, that “yeah, you did good, kid” moment.

And guess what? Kendrick didn’t just nod – he full-on co-signed the track. Now, for those of you who might not be hip to the lingo, a co-sign in the hip-hop world is like getting a five-star review from Gordon Ramsay. It’s the ultimate seal of approval, the hip-hop equivalent of a papal blessing. When Kendrick Lamar co-signs your track, you know you’ve cooked up something special.

As we wrap up this deep dive into the Ab-Soul and J. Cole saga, it’s clear that we’ve witnessed something truly special in the world of hip-hop. This isn’t just a story about two artists clearing up a misunderstanding – it’s a testament to the evolving nature of hip-hop culture and the power of mutual respect and clear communication.

Smino and J. Cole team up for the twisted new video for “90 Proof”

Smino and J. Cole team up for the twisted new video for “90 Proof”

It was announced last week that Smino had released his new album, Luv 4 Rent. A number of artists contributed to the production. These artists included Lil Uzi Vert, Ravyn Lenae, J. Cole, Doechii, Lucky Daye, Kal Banx, Fatman Scoop, Phoelix, and as well as others across 15 tracks. In addition to the project, he released several well-received singles, including “Louphoria,” “Matinee,” and “Modennaminute.”

Taking the stage for the first time in his official music video, the Missouri-born talent delivers his latest offering from the LP, “90 Proof” alongside North Carolina’s very talented, J. Cole. Filmmaker Philip Youmans directs this cinematic video which starts by showing the duo enjoying a house party with friends before things take a dark turn. A signature Cole touch is added during Cole’s guest verse on the track:

“Love 4 Rent is a collection of songs about different types of love,” according to a press release from Smino. “Obsessive love, petty love, crazy love, true love, and family love. It’s about the different ways in which I have given out my heart in such a way where I didn’t have enough left for myself.”

D-Day mixtape by Dreamville and J. Cole feat. DJ Drama

D-Day mixtape by Dreamville and J. Cole feat. DJ Drama

As usual, J. Cole blessed fans with this fantastic surprise. The Rockville star and his Dreamville Camp are hitting the streets today (March 31). Lute, Bas, Ari Lennox, EARTHGANG, J.I.D, Cozz, and Omen collaborate with DJ Drama for D-Day: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape, which will contain both previously unreleased tracks and previously released tracks such as J.I.D’s “Ambassel,” which helped make the Madden NFL 22 soundtrack stand out.

Besides appearing at Dreamville, D-Day is also taking part in this year’s festival, which will be held in Raleigh, NC this weekend, and in addition to the aforementioned will feature Ja Rule, Lil Baby, Ashanti, Moneybagg Yo, Kehlani, Bia, WizKid, Wale, Morray, Fivio Foreign, Blxst and more. Drama will also appear at the event as part of the Gangsta Grillz with Lil Wayne, Jeezy, and T.I.

The collective of Dreamville came together a few years ago to release their third installment of their Revenge of the Dreamers series, which included a healthy amount of cuts with a host of guest appearances from the likes of Smino, Childish Major, Yung Baby Tate, Reason, DaBaby, Guapdad 4000, Ty Dolla $ign, Vince Staples, and Deante’ Hitchcock. As a result, the project was an outstanding success for all parties involved, landing at the top of the Billboard 200 charts after selling 115,000 album equivalent units in its first week of release. After Revenge of the Dreamers III’s release, a Director’s Cut version with twelve additional songs been released.

In regards to Cole, he released his sixth studio album, The Off-Season, last year. It was another chart-topper from the camp (and Cole’s sixth). A tour of the same name was later organized to promote the album, which included Morray and 21 Savage.

J. Cole’s Upcoming Tour: A Unique Take on the Concert Circuit

J. Cole’s Upcoming Tour: A Unique Take on the Concert Circuit

Image credit: Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com

There’s a method to the madness for J. Cole’s upcoming tour with Drake, according to Cole’s manager, Ibrahim “Ib” Hamad. The tour, set to ignite 2024, is not your usual concert tour. It’s a mission to revisit the roots, the cities that shaped J. Cole and Drake’s musical journey but often get overlooked on the conventional touring map.

The Announcement: A Different Kind of Tour

On Monday, it was announced that J. Cole and Drake will go on the road together in 2024 for a joint run dubbed It’s All a Blur Tour: Big as the What? The tour is set to kick off on Jan. 18 in Denver, Colorado. It will then visit San Antonio, New Orleans, Tampa, Nashville, Kansas City, and wrap up in Birmingham, Alabama on March 27.

Ib Hamad took to social media to share his excitement about the upcoming journey, stating that the tour is a special run for markets that they don’t usually get to visit. The decision sparked conversations, with fans asking why the tour wouldn’t visit other stops such as Washington, D.C.

J. Cole and Drake

Hamad’s Take on the Tour

Ib Hamad clarified that the tour is not a major city run. Instead, it’s for the secondary market they don’t get to go to as much, hence the choice of cities. He further expressed his excitement to hit those cities again and reminisce about their early days in the music industry when they were grinding through these markets.

When asked why J. Cole and Drake wouldn’t pull up to North Carolina, Ib reminded the fan about Dreamville Festival 2024, which is happening in North Carolina a few weeks after the tour.

“We literally have a festival in North Carolina a few weeks after,” he wrote.

The Unique Approach: Revisiting the Roots

The decision to focus on the secondary markets instead of the major cities is a refreshing take on the usual concert tours. This approach allows the artists to reconnect with their roots and gives fans in these areas a chance to experience their favorite artists live, something that doesn’t happen often.

By doing this, J. Cole and Drake are not only creating a unique experience for their fans, but they’re also reminding themselves of where they came from and the journey they’ve been through.

Final Thoughts

In the world of music news, this tour stands out for its unique approach. It’s a testament to J. Cole and Drake’s humility and their dedication to their fans in all corners of the country. As they revisit the cities that played a crucial part in their journey, they’re also creating an opportunity for their fans in these areas to be a part of their ongoing journey.

While some fans might feel left out, this approach is a reminder that every city and every fan is important. It’s a celebration of music and its ability to connect people, regardless of where they are.

It’s All a Blur Tour: Big as the What? is set to be a memorable journey for both the artists and their fans. It’s a look back at the past, a celebration of the present, and a glimpse into the future.

So, if you’re in one of these cities, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see J. Cole and Drake live. And for those in the major cities, don’t feel left out. There’s always the next tour, and who knows, it might be even bigger and better.

“Bust A Brick Nick” by Benny The Butcher gets a new visual.

“Bust A Brick Nick” by Benny The Butcher gets a new visual.

As you know, Benny The Butcher’s critically acclaimed Tana Talk series reached its fourth installment last month, featuring 12 songs and contributions from Stove God Cooks, J. Cole, Boldy James, 38 Spesh, Diddy, as well as Griselda cohorts Conway The Machine and Westside Gunn, who contributed bars to “Guerrero” and “Tyson vs. Ali,” and respectively.

Earlier this week (April 20), Benny just released a new video from Tana Talk 4 for “Bust A Brick Nick,” a track produced by Alchemist that features the Buffalo rapper rapping about his detractors, getting shot, and money, among other topics:

A clip for “Bust A Brick Nick” is below, which features Kat, Tony Deniro, and Blu, along with Benny The Butcher somewhere in the desert. In addition to a private jet, beautiful women carrying suitcases, Benny riding his high-end whip, and much more, viewers are treated to various shots throughout the movie.

Tana Talk 4 follows on from the successful Tana Talk series as well as other fantastic works from Benny The Butcher, including Burden of Proof, The Plugs I Met 2, and Pyrex Picasso. Benny explained how he has continued to improve his craft in a previous interview:

I’m consistent. My consistency has increased. Even though I felt my talents were excellent, when you’re doing what you’re doing at the street level, your focus isn’t entirely there. I get a hundred percent of my attention doing this for a living.”