Drake and J. Cole catapulted to fame during the same era, when mixtapes became a rite of passage for artists destined for greatness. Both of these mixtapes are not only classics, but also showcase some of the artists’ best work to date. Drake is renowned for creating chart-topping hits and for captivating the hearts of many, while J. Cole is celebrated for his exceptional lyricism, often drawing comparisons to Nas. Join us as we delve into their mixtapes and determine the winner of this epic mixtape war.
Friday Night Lights is often hailed as J. Cole’s equivalent of “Illmatic”, a testament to his musical elevation. Many fans argue that it should have been released as a full album, as the music is near perfection. Not only did he produce the beats himself, but the songs and lyricism are also top-notch. It is the epitome of a flawless Hip Hop project, possessing the complete package.
Whenever individuals claim they want the “old Drake,” they are actually referring to the time period when this iconic project was made. This masterpiece was created during a time when the OVO boss was at the peak of his creative hunger, and it unequivocally reflects in the timeless nature of the music. The songs from this era deserve a place in a music museum, as they showcase Drake’s undeniable talent and foreshadow his destined path to greatness.
Standout Tracks:
J Cole – 2Face
I’m headed back home ain’t staying that long
I’m chasing dreams shawty im paying back loans
I’m paying dues that a nigga paying tax on
Im tryna blow like a nigga playing saxophone
I’m playing daddy to another niggas daughter
Don’t worry even Jesus never saw his real father
J. Cole effortlessly delivered one of the hardest lines in the history of Hip Hop. He effortlessly expresses the duality of everything, showcasing his mastery. His third verse was truly epic.
Drake – Say What’s Real
Don’t ever forget the moment you began to doubt
Transitioning from fitting in to standing out
Los Angeles Cabanas or Atlanta South
Watchin’ Hov’s show, embarrassed to pull my camera out
And promoters tryna get me out to they club
And say I have fun but I can’t imagine how
‘Cause I just seen my ex-girl, standing with my next girl
Standing with the girl that I’m fuckin’ right now
Nah, but 40 told me to do me
And don’t listen to anybody that knew me
‘Cause to have known me would mean that there’s a new me
And if you think I changed in the slightest, could’ve fooled me
Boy, and to my city I’m the 2-3
Drug dealers live vicariously through me
Drake truly displayed his hunger and high level creativity. This isn’t just a song, This is a captivating cinematic experience that unfolds from beginning to end. You can really feel his thoughts about adjust to fame here. Many would argue that this rendition surpasses the original.
Commercial Tracks
Blow Up
“Now don’t it sound legendary?”
Yes J. Cole. No paragraph needed. No lyric quotes needed. The whole first verse is legendary from start to finish. Especially the way he ended it with the Gary Coleman line. Next level lyricism.
Best I Ever Had
Ha, and you don’t even have to ask twice
You could have my heart or we can share it like the last slice
Always felt like you was so accustomed to the fast life
Have a nigga thinkin’ that he met you in a past life
Sweatpants hair tied chillin’ with no make-up on
That’s when you’re the prettiest
I hope that you don’t take it wrong
You don’t even trip when friends say you ain’t bringin’ Drake along
You know that I’m workin’, I’ll be there as soon as I make it home
This single marked the start of a decade-long, ongoing era of Drake hits, offering the world a preview of the smooth bars and commercial appeal that would come to define his music. It quickly became a favorite among women, and stands as one of his best tracks to date.
G.O.A.T. VERSES 
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