J. Cole surprised his fans earlier this week by performing a pop-up concert at the Gramercy in New York. During the event, he reportedly banned cellphones, cameras, and press. The intimate show allowed J. Cole to speak directly to his fans while previewing new music.
J. Cole would later reveal that he was releasing a new album, KOD, on April 20. The day is viewed as a holiday for lovers of marijuana. Oddly enough, J. Cole embraces an anti-drug message on his new project KOD. Via Twitter, J. Cole said the album had three meanings which include, “Kids on Drugs,” “Kill Our Demons” and “King Overdosed.” Each meaning represents different levels of using drugs or fame to escape mentally.
The album cover featured art where young kids appear to be indulging in drugs such Dirty Sprite (Sprite and Codeine) and illegal pills.
Released at midnight on April 20, KOD features 12 songs that are void of any feature. Following the release, fans revealed their initial reactions on social media.
hot take: j cole is a modestly talented rapper, mediocre lyricist and above average producer who seems like an earnest humane person that makes boring albums with 2.3 good songs each
— Otto Von Biz Markie (@Passionweiss) April 20, 2018
J Cole Snapped on every song no joke! I love em all 🔥🐐! I understand it’s only first listen but that’s my opinion ✍🏽
— Mark Phillips (@SupremeDreams_1) April 20, 2018
“Once an Addict” is an early standout on J. Cole’s “KOD.” It’s a powerful song and perhaps one of the most vulnerable joints he’s ever done. It feels like a personal breakthrough with an emotional pull. It’s technically an “interlude,” but it’s much more than that.
— Andres Tardio ✍🏽 📷 (@AndresWrites) April 20, 2018
We must protect J Cole at all cost for putting out an album that goes against this tyrannical government that profits off of mentally-ill kids follow trends of Mumble rappers, struggle from drug addiction, a poor school system, & anxiety. He’s a target because he’s a truther.
— Asshole Of The Year (@Bdell1014) April 20, 2018
J Cole said it’s 2018, we should be running government from an app on our phones, rather than wack congressmen we’ll never meet. I don’t know about you but I’m voting J. Cole for President.
— Marcus Perez (@Markaaaay) April 20, 2018
J.Cole is a whole different vibe. Music with a message. Music with meaning.👏🏽
— Alyssa Rodriguez (@lyssarodriguez_) April 20, 2018
J. cole said:
“Fell in love through a photograph. I don’t even know your name. Wonder if you’d follow back. I hope to see you one day. I won’t show my dudes now. I’ll keep this one for myself. Love today’s gone digital. And it’s messing with my health.”
— God’s plan (@babyitsmb) April 20, 2018
