Artist: J. Cole
Album: The Sideline Story
Release Date: September 27, 2011
Star Rating: 4.5

“The Sideline Story,” the debut album of the first artist to sign onto Jay – Z’s Roc Nation record label. I think it’s safe to say that many people were waiting for this album to release and i’m right there with each of them. As always, I’m going to write this album review as unbiased as possible.

As the intro track begins, those familiar with Cole find themselves at the beginning of yet another wonderful adventure. Those that are listening to J. Cole for the first time will find themselves feeling like they’re about to listen to the story of a legend. Soft piano melodies fade in and crescendo as Cole talks and jumps into an inspirational flow about how he got to his present status in life.

Appropriately, the intro track ends and leads right into the next song titled “A Dollar and a Dream.” (The third version of a song featured on his previous mixtapes) Each song on the album has deep lyrics and meanings that not every artist can offer. Talking about being an unique artist, Cole is in a different league with more then lyrics in his music.

Although there aren’t many features on the album, the ones that do appear are powerful artists. J. Cole teams up with Drake for the first single off the album that released early on. Also present is the man that can be considered as J. Cole’s mentor. Jay -Z and Cole collaborate and create a song with a sick beat and lyrics that compliment their swag. Their song “Mr. Nice Watch” is definitely a song that will be blasting in the clubs all year. Last but not least, Cole brings back someone that hasn’t been heard of in a while. Missy Elliot gets on the track with J. Cole for the song “Nobody’s Perfect.” Although its been years since I’ve personally heard Missy Elliot, her appearance on the song gave it different flow that Cole still seemed to master.

No matter who your favorite artist is, I recommended you buy and listen to this album because this “new” artist is definitely turning heads. I’m sure his name will be listed as features on other albums soon to hit the shelves as well. I can’t wait for whatever is in store next. #COLEWORLD