J. Cole

"All eyes have been on J. Cole . . . Never lazy with the flow and constantly attacking the mic with clever rhymes and intriguing lyrics and content... –XXL Magazine
In an era saturated with upstart MCs all vying for the coveted status of "next big thing", the story of 30-year old North Carolina native J. Cole (born Jermaine Cole) is a refreshing exception to the quick route for fame and success. The first artist signed to Jay-Z's Roc Nation label, Cole made himself notable through a scholarly approach to the game - no small feat considering his Magna Cum Laude distinction upon graduating from St. John's University. Steadily developing his lyrical skills since the age 12, Cole studied not only the important musical and lyrical content of his youth, but the strategic career moves made by his influential forefathers.
Taking from his favorite artists a love for powerful storytelling with an intense inner- strength, J. Cole advanced to writing his own lyrics at 15, soon amassing stacks of notebooks filled with rhymes and observations. Without a DJ or producer to provide a beat, he industriously started creating his own using a beat machine given as a present by his mother. From then on J. Cole was constantly creating new music and lyrics leading to his current and flow.
Determined to follow in the footsteps of the greats, J. Cole has dedicated "100% of my energies to making a classic album, something that is going to stand the test of time." Given his history and incomparable talent, the claim is not one to be overlooked.