J. Cole shares insights on his relationships with Drake and Kendrick Lamar in a rare homecoming interview
The Dreamville star shares his experience of feeling “miserable” after becoming involved in the intense rap rivalry.
Two years following one of the most significant lyrical battles in hip-hop history, J. Cole is now revealing his perspective on the events.
In a recent interview with Apple Music’s Nadeska Alexis, the North Carolina rapper revisited his childhood home located at 2014 Forest Hills Drive. During the discussion, he candidly addressed the repercussions of the conflict between Drake and Kendrick Lamar and explained his choice to withdraw prematurely.
Cole emphasized that, regardless of the tension observed by fans online, he continues to have a great deal of respect for both artists. “I have a deep admiration for these guys; I truly care for them,” he expressed. “I dislike witnessing the world criticize either one of them in support of the other.” Even speaking it aloud feels somewhat amusing.
The discussion also highlighted the pivotal moment that altered everything: his public apology to Kendrick Lamar at the 2024 Dreamville Fest. The move followed closely after Cole released “7 Minute Drill,” a track directed at Kendrick in response to his verse on “Like That.” Fans were anticipating a lively exchange, but Cole realized that his heart was no longer involved.
“It struck me an hour before [his set],” he shared with Nadeska. “Before that, I was extremely stressed out.” As soon as the thought struck me, I rose up. And I received the light, and I felt a surge of excitement because just two or three days prior, it was… This is quite unfortunate. I sensed that I did not accurately portray who I am. I’m contributing to division and to unfavorable narratives and perceptions about someone I truly care for and have affection for… We understand the reasons behind that occurrence from the outset.
Cole recounted the days preceding that festival as a significant low point in his life. “That experience left me feeling awful…” “I can’t honestly say it was logical,” he added. “In a moment of uncertainty, I decided to take this path…” I felt quite unhappy about it… An hour earlier, I found myself thinking, ‘Aha.’ […] [His wife] noticed the burden it was placing on me… I felt even better than I did knowing I was going to [apologize].
With the release of his latest album, The Fall-Off, in February, Cole appears to prioritize his peace over competing for a position at the top through negativity.
