The Complex Relationship Between J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar: A Glimpse Into the Unreleased Joint Album
J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, two-thirds of hip-hop’s “Big Three,” share a relationship as complex as their lyrical prowess. Revered as generational talents, the duo has exhibited camaraderie and rivalry over the years, creating a dynamic that continues to fascinate fans. On J. Cole’s new podcast, Inevitable, he delves into this intricate history while giving fans an unprecedented treat: a preview of two long-lost tracks from their joint project, recorded circa 2010.
The songs, “Temptations” and “Shock the World,” take fans back to the early days of DatPiff and the underground mixtape era. These tracks, previously only available in rough, fan-recorded snippets from a 2010 record store release event, have achieved a near-mythical status among die-hard fans. On YouTube, blurry footage of Kendrick Lamar rapping along to the songs—joined by an enthusiastic crowd—has been preserved, though the audio quality left much to be desired. Now, J. Cole has finally shared the official CDQ versions, much to the delight of his audience.
Revisiting “Temptations” and “Shock the World”
“Temptations” showcases J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar exchanging stellar verses over a harp-infused beat produced by Cole himself. The track captures their raw chemistry, with both rappers displaying their signature introspective lyricism. “Shock the World,” on the other hand, features a soulful hook by BJ the Chicago Kid, a former Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) affiliate, weaving seamlessly with Cole and Lamar’s verses.
During the podcast, J. Cole not only played the songs but also discussed their origins. He reflected on their studio sessions, where their musical synergy was palpable. Fans were reminded of the promise these two artists held as collaborators, a promise left largely unfulfilled due to their diverging paths.
A Tense History
J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar’s relationship has become increasingly strained in recent years. Cole’s latest song, “Port Antonio,” details his decision to step away from the escalating tensions between him, Lamar, and Drake, the third member of the “Big Three.” In it, Cole reflects on their falling out, a feud that has subtly played out in diss tracks, subliminal lines, and interviews.
While Lamar has ascended to near-mythical status in the hip-hop world, and Drake has maintained his dominance, Cole’s reputation has faced more scrutiny. His introspective, self-critical approach has earned him both praise and skepticism from fans. However, Inevitable shows a side of Cole at peace with his journey.
Alternate History
The release of “Temptations” and “Shock the World” offers a tantalizing glimpse into what could have been. The songs highlight the potential of a full-fledged collaboration between J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, a dream project for many hip-hop enthusiasts. The tracks also serve as a nostalgic callback to a time when the pair’s camaraderie and mutual respect were unquestionable.
Though their relationship has grown complicated, J. Cole’s willingness to revisit these moments—and share them with fans—demonstrates a certain maturity. He may not be able to repair the fractures in his relationships with Lamar or Drake, but by reflecting on their history, Cole provides fans with a rare look into the makings of two icons.
The podcast not only sheds light on the creative process behind these tracks but also underscores the enduring legacy of J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar’s artistry. Whether their paths will cross creatively again remains uncertain, but for now, fans can revel in this small piece of hip-hop history.
