Rapper J. Cole Releases Debut Album: The Sideline Story

Sep 27, 2011
Faizan Qurashi

J. Cole released his debut album - The Sideline Story - Flickr

Rapper J. Cole released his highly anticipated debut album called Cole World: The Sideline Story.

After a two year wait, North Carolina rapper J. Cole finally put out his debut album entitled Cole World: The Sideline Story.

The album, which actually leaked a week prior to its official release, has received positive feedback upon its first twenty-fours on the market. A blend of old school 90s hip hop, mixed with tons of piano samples and smooth beats, as well as your necessary "radio hits," The Sideline Story is the entire package all in one.

J. Cole doesn't disappoint with this debut album, and puts forth a whole array of topics, showcasing his versatility and awareness. Tracks like "Lost Ones" discuss significant issues such as unwanted pregnancy, while songs like "Breakdown" discuss his feelings on the lack of having a father at home. Of course, the album isn't all serious, as you have big hits tracks such as "Can't Get Enough" featuring Trey Songz and "Mr. Nice Watch" ft. Jay-Z. Other songs like "God's Gift" and "Rise and Shine" put the finishing touches on what Cole likes to describe as a "classic" album.

It's been a big year for rap as many highly anticipated albums have been released, such as the collaboration album of rap moguls Jay-Z and Kanye West. Lil Wayne's "The Carter IV" has also hit the markets. Both albums have been successful. J. Cole hasn't stated how much he expects the album to sell, but you can bet he wants to top every rap album this year.

It's been a long time coming for J. Cole, who is the first rapper signed to Jay-Z's Roc Nation label. Cole had been featured on many songs such as on Jay-Z's the Blueprint 3 and Wale's song entitled "Bad Girls." However, nothing has come close to putting out his own album. And for that reason, he doesn't have as many features as the typical album. Cole has stated that he wanted to be judged on his skills alone and be able to carry the album by himself, and having too many features on it would deter that.

J. Cole has truly shown his growth as an artist after releasing his mix tapes that include - The Come Up, The Warm Up, and Friday Night Lights. J. Cole also co-produced the album, having a hand in more than ten of the 16 tracks on the CD. All in all, this album is just what J. Cole fans and the game of Hip Hop need right now. You won't be disappointed; it truly is a classic.