Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers vinyl is the 5th LP by Kendrick Lamar. In 2018, after one classic, one masterpiece, and a hit blockbuster album, Kendrick went on a prolonged hiatus. But why? Brace yourself, I will take you on a trip down memory lane.

If N.W.A’s “Straight Outta Compton” (2015) taught the audience anything, it was about the daily hurdles the residents went through. Especially during the ’80s, more known as the crack era. Exactly where Kendrick Lamar Duckworth (1987) grew up. “Pray that we make it to 21.“

“On the curb writing raps next to a gunshot.
I’m trying to duck the influence of my city that’s brewing.”

-K.Dot, Average Joe (2010).

Indeed, the elements that circle a person influence that individual, for better or worse. Admittedly, Kendrick’s childhood was surrounded by welfare and gang members. “Everyone I knew was Crip or Piru.“

Also, another movie that depicts the city of Compton is “King Richard” (2021). As a teenager, you had to be occupied doing extra activities to keep yourself distracted from the streets, or you could become another casualty at war. “I’m more than a statistic.“

So, if for Serena and Venus was through tennis for Lamar it was through music. Therefore, during his teens, K. Dot debuted his mixtape (2003) and signed to Terence “Punch” Henderson’s record label, “Top Dawg Entertainment.”

Seven years later, his commercial mixtape “OD” (2010) followed. As a result, Kendrick served as an opening act for other well-established rap artists, released his debut album “Section .80” (2011), and signed a joint venture with Compton’s finest, Dr. Dre’s Aftermath label (2012).

By the end of 2012, Kendrick released his sophomore LP titled “good kid, m.A.A.d city.” Clearly, it marked a before and after for his career.

“Dreams of living life like rappers do. The only thing we had to free our mind.”

-Kendrick Lamar, Money Trees (2012)

Now, Kendrick wasn’t just dreaming of the life of a rapper, he was living it. And he would go to any lengths to protect his spot. Rap has always been a competitive sport. Ever since Hip-Hop’s foundation (1973), fans have constructed a pyramid to hail the hottest MC.

In August 2013, K. Dot protected his acclaimed throne by calling out every new rapper and proclaiming himself the king of N.Y. “I’m the King of New York, King of the Coast.” Afterward, he secluded to plot his next material. But how to follow up on such a high-hailed record?

In fact, there are many ways to find inspiration. For example, one of them can be by incorporating never-used instrumentation or traveling to an unexplored destination like Lorde did for “Solar Power” (2021). Hence, this time Kendrick’s next haven was South Africa.

During his visit, he got to explore its tourist attractions, conversate with the locals, and absorb all the beauty. However, not everything was pleasant- survival guilt came into play. “A friend would never leave Compton for profit.“

Imagine finally making it as a musician, having the opportunity to go on tour, and stay at 5-star hotels, while on the other side; your relatives, friends, and your city were in shambles.

As painfully stated by Alex Pappademas on “The Big Hit Show” (2021); “Kendrick was touring on a smash hit album, then coming back to Compton to go to funerals.“

“Sorry to hear what happened to your homeboy.
When you do make it, give back with your words of encouragement.
To your City.”

-Kenny & Paula Duckworth, Real (2012).

Hence, his third album “To Pimp A Butterfly” (2015) mirrored the influences he had experienced from South Africa by incorporating musical elements and tackling racial topics. “I went to Robben’s Island, that is where Nelson’s cell is.“

Furthermore, for his next endeavor, “Damn” (2017), three years passed. This LP was about penetrating pop culture and reaching a worldwide scale.

So, how to rank his catalog? In the words of Terence “Punch” Henderson, “‘Good Kid, M.A.A.D City’ was the classic, The ‘Damn’ album was a blockbuster, and ‘To Pimp A Butterfly’ is the masterpiece.”

Despite the blockbuster and being the people’s champion for almost the entire decade, in 2018, Kenny stepped away from the spotlight.

Throughout his career, Mr. Duckworth has been criticized for taking too much time between records as depicted in the table below.

Consequently, 1,855 days had to pass until Kendrick Lamar released his next project, “Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers Vinyl.” During this interval, some fans patiently waited while others moved on.

“Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers” vinyl

Undoubtedly, being raised on the streets can affect a person’s life. Namely, the streets will make you bottle up every emotion before showing it. “Real men need no therapy.“

In films, it is common to watch the therapist and the patient on the comfortable couch chatting about issues such as addiction, sexual abuse, depression, daddy issues, etc. “To my partners that figured it out without a father, I salute you.“

In reality, the majority can’t even afford it. Especially those who grow up on welfare. Thus, that same lifestyle and trauma will pass from one generation to another. But is there a way to break this cycle? “My past won’t keep me from my best.“

On “Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers,” Kendrick exercises those long-bottled-up emotions through dreamy, and nostalgic yet hard beats. Tracks such as “Father Time,” “Rich Spirit” and “Count Me Out” show the demons he had to fight throughout the process of growing as a man and a father.

“What is fame to me? I shut down too.
Please everybody else but myself.
If I didn’t learn to love myself, forgive myself…“

-Kendrick Lamar, Count Me Out (2022).

“Auntie Diaries” finds Kendrick reflecting on offensive words learned during elementary school and how to love every person regarding their sex. Now, Lamar is not tap dancing around the conversation anymore.

It is safe to say that from Kendrick onwards, his family tree will grow up with good morale taught by the parents instead of the streets. “Congratulations. You broke a generational curse.“

Regardless, in the era of too much music pollution, Kendrick has not given in. More so, he has taken the time between records to learn, experiment with instruments, meditate, and evolve.

So, what to expect in the future? After departing from “TDE” (2022), he created his label “pgLang.” A platform for him to give back with his words of encouragement. “Hey man, K. Dot is back in the hood!”

Should every artist follow the laid-out blueprint, -and learn about quality over quantity-, everything will be all right. In conclusion, Kendrick Lamar by far, the illest musician alive.

Happy Birthday, KDOT! Watch “Count Me Out” and listen to Kendrick Lamar’s “Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers” vinyl.

1. “Count Me Out” music video by Kendrick Lamar. Directed by Dave Fee and Kendrick Lamar (PGlang, TDE, Aftermath, 2022). ↩︎
2. “N95” music video by Kendrick Lamar. Directed by Dave Fee and Kendrick Lamar (PGlang, TDE, Aftermath, 2022). ↩︎
3. “Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers” album by Kendrick Lamar. Cover artwork by Renell Medrano (pgLang, Top Dawg Entertainment, Aftermath, Interscope, 2022). ↩︎

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J Cole the Off Season songs is his sixth studio album. On this record, he emphasizes the importance of training. Dubbed as his most ambitious project, does he reach a new height? On January 28th, I deep-dive in search of answers to find out what it takes to unlock a new level and also predict the 2022 Grammy winners. Let’s work.

Firstly, let’s pick up where we left off. It is clear that since his debut LP, “Cole World: The Sideline Story” (2011), Cole was determined to be one of the greatest.

To do that, he had to leave his hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina, with a dollar & a dream. Alike a young Simba, if he was ever going to make it, he had to explore the surroundings.

However, a career-defining moment came on his third LP, with the release of “2014 Forest Hills Drive.” Instead of aiming for Hollywood, he detached himself from that superficial dream.

On his next endeavor, “4 Your Eyez Only” (2016), instead of singing from his perspective like on “2014 Forest Hills Drive“, he narrated the highs and lows of one of his friends.

Also, on “KOD” (2018), he expanded his musical barriers by incorporating trap into his raps. Indeed, all the three aforementioned LPs have one thing in common: they are featureless.

“I don’t want to look back 20 years from now and be like,
‘I never worked with anybody.’
And so I had this idea…”

-J. Cole, Dreamville Presents: REVENGE (2019)

Therefore, atop of 2019, he sent a golden ticket invitation to producers, rappers, and singers to record “Revenge of the Dreamers III” in just 10 days.

Consequently, the sessions made him realize the benefits of such a creative process. That is, being surrounded by others can spark productivity.

Ever since its foundation in 1973, Hip-Hop has vouched for equality. For instance, it has given a voice to the powerless to stand up and fight against discrimination, racial injustices, and police brutality.

• How “Hip-Hop’s foundation” sparked a movement

At this point in his career, whenever Cole dropped, his fans were there to support him by buying his music. So, what happens when people need help from a bigger voice?

On May 25, 2020, a security guard named George Floyd was killed by police. He died of asphyxiation once the officer kneeled on his neck. “At times the devil is winning but does that mean God lost?“

At first, by not being present at the rallies, he felt the wrath of not only his fans but of the public in general. Eventually, he showed up to protest among the civilians and understood their pain.

Afterward, he continued training on the long-awaited album for his fans. Finally, on May 14th, 2021, the record arrived.

J Cole “The Off Season” Songs

Undoubtedly, the parallels between rap and basketball have always been there. For many stuck in the projects, it is the only way out. You either rap or go to the league.

“When I fell in love with rap, I started realizing the parallel between rapping and basketball.”

-J. Cole, Applying Pressure: The Off-Season (2021)

Although Kobe Bryant’s unreleased album, “Visions” (2000), never came to fruition, Damian Lillard’s “The Letter O” did (2016). Before aiming for rap, Cole aspired for the NBA. Clearly, during the off-season, he also trained hard for his hoop dreams.

Hence, just two days after its release date (May 16), he made his professional debut in the Basketball Africa League with the Patriots Basketball Club.

Riddle me this. Whenever you see your favorite team raising the trophy, do you think it is pure luck? Hell no. That moment is the reward of the hard work put in during the off-season.

But if a rapper/athlete wouldn’t apply pressure to the craft, the results would match the previous one, thus, comfort becoming the enemy rather than an ally.

So, what does it take to reach a new height? Namely, by maintaining a schedule and continuous training, writing a verse, doing a drill, making a beat, and sharpening the pen. Only then can the next level be unlocked. Admittedly, it is the blueprint for an everlasting career instead of disposable music.

To conclude, the songs by J Cole’s “The Off Season” are deserving of 2021’s “Best Rap Album” and future Grammy champion. Last, in my opinion, the rest of the 64th Annual Grammy Awards winners will look as follows:

Watch “Amari” and listen to the songs of “The Off-Season” by J Cole below.

1. “Amari” music video by J. Cole. Directed by Mez for Heirs (Dreamville, Roc Nation, 2021). ↩︎
2. “The Off-Season” by J. Cole. Cover artwork by Felton Brown and Justin Francis (Dreamville, Roc Nation, 2021). ↩︎
3. “The Off-Season” documentary video by J. Cole. Directed by Scott Lazer (Dreamville, Roc Nation, 2021). ↩︎

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Westside Boogie Everythings For Sale is his first major debut, released on January 25th, 2019. Such a project established his long-seeking respect as a lyricist. A record that shows the demons he had to fight to make it.

Before Westside Boogie, there was Anthony Tremaine Dixson. Born on August 30, 1989. He comes from a humble household. At a young age and under his mom’s order, Anthony joins the church choir. Eventually, he becomes surrounded by music.

Despite his respect for the Bible, he can find inspiration outside the church perimeters. After all, he lives in Compton, California. The center and catalysis of the ’90s Hip-Hop. Therefore, the reason why his Top 5 are: Jay-Z, Tupac (R.I.P.), Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and The Notorious B.I.G. (R.I.P.)

Moreover, after the birth of his son in 2009, he pushes more than ever his desire for music which catapults three mixtapes: Thirst 48 (2014), The Reach (2015), and Thirst 48 Part II (2016). After signing to record label Shady Records in late 2017, his moment had finally arrived.

Firstly, on the introductory track and “Silent Ride,” he fights his reflection and lack of confidence. A spoiler theme for what is about to come. “Swap Meet” and “Lolsmh” highlight a slow-tempo-singing Boogie. Undoubtedly, this can be attributed to his church choir days.

However, the album is not only about insecurities. Hence, on the songs “Soho” and “Rainy Days,” he switches to a fast-paced beat proving his lyrical abilities and his desire for the Hip-Hop title. After all, he made it out of Compton. “This for my friends in jail, wrestling L’s / that’s the hell in the cell.“

Furthermore, other standout tracks are “Skydive I/II” and “Whose Fault,” which resume the slow-tempo and nostalgic outcome of the struggles in relationships.

“Self-Destruction” lifts the mood once again. Clearly, it is a celebration. Lastly, “Time” closes an evocative album, which leaves the audience eagerly aspiring for more. In fact, Westside Boogie is gearing up to release his sophomore album.

To conclude and boasting 13 cuts, the LP is able to display vivid lyrics into a visual record. Watch the short film and listen to Westside Boogie Everythings For Sale in the link below.

1. “Everythings For Sale” Short Film. Directed by Gina Gammell, Riley Keough, and Malcolm Washington (Shady Records, Interscope, 2019). ↩︎
2. “Everythings For Sale” album cover by Westside Boogie (Shady Records, Interscope, 2019). ↩︎

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4:44 is Jay-Z’s 13th album released on June 30th, 2017. From his past drug dealing days, investments, and the music industry to cheating rumors, he comes clean and reveals the blueprint for success.

In the intro, “Kill Jay Z,” he addresses his past drug-selling habits. “You got people you love you sold drugs to.“ But growing up in the Marcy Projects, Brooklyn New York, this was everything he knew and his way of income. He would sell drugs to anybody, including close friends despite knowing its long-term effects. Fortunately, he stopped once he fully concentrated on the music.

In late 2016, he and Kanye West were not on the same page. Hence, conflicts started to arise. For those who don’t know, their relationship stretches back to the early 2000s. As a result, they even released a joint project called “Watch the Throne” (2011). So, where did it go left?

In 2015, Jay-Z acquired the streaming service TIDAL, which has rights to many artists including Kanye. After exclusively releasing his album “The Life of Pablo” on TIDAL, Ye would rant about Jay.

Moreover, he felt the streaming service policies prevented him from collaborating with other artists. “You gave him twenty million without blinking / he gave you twenty minutes on stage.” Although they later reconciled, a “Watch the Throne 2” may never see the light of the day.

“The Story of O.J.” has him reflecting on missed financial opportunities. “I could have bought a place in DUMBO for like 2 million / That building today is worth 25 million.“ Something he can’t stress enough is to invest but some artists prefer the fastest route and sign the first music deal they are offered.

“Smile“ finds Gloria Carter having the strength of coming out as a lesbian. “Living in the shadow / Can you imagine what kind of life it is to live? / Love who you love because life isn’t guaranteed.” He came to acceptance of his mother’s sexuality.

When Jay-Z acquired TIDAL, music artist Prince (R.I.P.) was eager to work with him and even gave TIDAL exclusive content. “I sat down with Prince eye to eye / he told me his wishes before he died.” However, after his death in April 2016, Prince’s state and lawyers took over his catalog.

Since early in his career, Prince felt his former label was blackballing him and his record contract was unfair. “This guy had ‘Slave’ on his face / You think he wanted the masters with his masters?” On “4:44,” Jay alludes that if not played the cards right, a musician can have a short career and eventually become a slave.

Another topic, in 4:44 Jay Z discusses, is the cheating allegations against his wife Beyoncé. Back in April 2016, she released her sixth studio album called “Lemonade.” On the track, “Sorry“, Bey sings “Today I regret the night I put that ring on / He better call Becky with the good hair.” The ball was on Jay’s court.

On the self-titled track, he finally comes clean. “Took me too long for this song I don’t deserve you / You risked that for Blue?” However, on “Family Feud“ featuring Beyoncé herself, they seem to have patched their marriage and even released a joint LP “EVERYTHING IS LOVE” (2018).

Furthermore, on the next tracks, “Bam” and “Moonlight“, he continues firing back at the new generation of rap while still revealing the blueprint for success.

“I’m trying to give you a milion dollars worth of game for $9.99.”

-Jay-Z, The Story of O.J. (2017)

On “Marcy Me“, Jay reminisces about his childhood and what it was like growing up in the projects. Unfortunately, not every story has a happy ending. The majority never make it out of the system. Lastly, on “Legacy“, he celebrates his achievements and how he plans to leave a will to his family.

“4:44” itself has many more messages to break it down in its entirety. Knowing his craft with the pen, such records can take up to years to fully decipher. Within every stream, there is a discovery.

To conclude, his venture expands beyond music. From 40/40 clubs to clothing companies to partnering with the alcohol brand Armand de Brignac. Jay-Z is Hip-Hop’s first billionaire.

Watch “Family Feud” and listen to “4:44” in the link below.

1. “Family Feud” music video by JAY-Z. Directed by Ava DuVernay (Roc Nation, 2017). ↩︎
2. “4:44” album by JAY-Z. Cover artwork by Willo Perron (Roc Nation, 2017). ↩︎

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2014 Forest Hills Drive vinyl is the third studio album by American rapper, Jermaine Cole (J. Cole). Released on December 9, 2014, the album debuted at #1 on Billboard selling over 300,000 copies. How did such an album become the blueprint of life?

“A few months back, I dropped this album called ‘2014 Forest Hills Drive.’ You know this whole album is a journey. Before we go too far, I want to press rewind and take you to a time when I was just a young boy.“

-J. Cole at his sold out show in Fayetteville, North Carolina, USA (2015)

“Can I make a million dollars off a rap tune?” J. Cole’s dream since he was a kid: to become a rapper. Born on “January 28th“, 1985, Cole was raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

His mission: not to be just another one, but to aspire to be the greatest. But growing up in a small town and managing ends meet can be a decisive factor for failure.

On “03′ Adolescence,” he describes the struggle he went through as a teenager. Back then, there were “No Role Modelz” for him. Hence, he would look up to his friends who were selling drugs and wanted to follow the same path, unbeknownst to their struggle. “You are about the get a degree, I’m going to be stuck with two choices.“

“A Tale of 2 Citiez” keeps on depicting the same mindset. “Since a younging always dreamed of getting rich / fantasize about a white picket fence.” To pursue his goal, he knew he had to make it out of the ville or he would end up just like his friends.

Indeed, his dream finally came true in 2009, after signing to Jay-Z‘s Roc Nation label. Lights, please (get it?). With the releases of his albums “Cole World: The Sideline Story” (2011) and “Born Sinner” (2013), he lives first-hand the “Hollywood experience.”

While in Hollywood, Cole succumbs to the lights, cameras, and action. Thus, he turns into what everyone else has become: arrogant and selfish. Unfortunately, he learned the hard way that everything comes with a price. “I know that everything that glitters ain’t gold.” Luckily, after two albums, he is able to wake up.

On his quest for Hollywood, he left his mother behind, who was struggling financially. Ultimately, she lost her house. Now, he was unbeknownst to her struggle. “I’m so sorry that I left you there to deal with that alone.”

Forest Hills Drive

Upon detaching himself from Hollywood, he comes to his senses and eventually heads back home, where he is able to appreciate life for what it is.

All the money, expensive cars, big houses, that is Hollywood. Moreover, we tend to buy to fill out our void. Ever since kids, we are taught that to become successful we need to go to school followed by college. This will land the big paychecks so we can buy overpriced materials.

“On the road to riches
this is what you will find.
The good news is you came a long way,
the bad news is you went the wrong way.”

-J. Cole, Love Yourz (2014)

Don’t get me wrong. Of course, we need to go through certain steps. But most important is to never forget your roots and to love yours. Besides, what is the purpose of having a white picket fence, if you are not loved?

J. Cole’s record label is called Dreamville. Artists include Bas, J.I.D., Cozz, Ari, Earthgang, among others.

Listen to the live version of “2014 Forest Hills Drive” vinyl in the link below.

1. “Love Yourz” music video by J. Cole (Dreamville, 2016). ↩︎
2. “2014 Forest Hills Drive” album by J. Cole. Cover artwork by Felton Brown (Dreamville, Roc Nation, 2014). ↩︎

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