Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
In 2008, Jay-Z made a power move when he left Def Jam to form a new super-label, Roc Nation. He surprised the world when he signed Fayetteville, NC rapper, J. Cole, and made him the focal point of the label. Many expected him to fill the label up with established stars.
Early on, it appeared as if J. Cole was going to be on the fast track to success. Things took off quickly for J. Cole, while other mixtape rappers, such as Drake and Nicki Minaj were still waiting. J. Cole received his big break on "A Star is Born" and gained a national following.
Jay-Z announced J. Cole's album would follow in October, but the day came and went without an album. Later, J. Cole was set up with a 2010 release date. Meanwhile, Drake had become the face of Young Money and hip hop, while Nicki Minaj landed high-profile collaborations with major artists.
During the summer of 2010, J. Cole landed a minor hit with "Who Dat." Meanwhile, Wiz Khalifa had received the green light from Atlantic Records to begin recording his album. Before J. Cole event got to hit the studio good, Wiz Khalifa had a national tour and a hit single. J. Cole soon found himself overlooked when Roc Nation added Willow Smith to the roster and focused all of the energy on her. Smith's debut album is set to be released before J. Cole's now.
Despite being overlooked, J. Cole remains calm. Coming into the game, he knew it would not be easy for him to get where he wanted to be. Instead of being upset by watching Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Wiz Khalifa, he looks at them as inspiration for where he wants to be. J. Cole said their success has inspired him so much on his debut album. Their level of success is where J. Cole has motivated himself to be when he finally does release Cole World.