Royce Da 5’9″ Declares J. Cole as the Only Rapper Still Competitive in Hip-Hop
Reflecting on the evolving landscape of the genre, Royce expressed his observation that J. Cole stands out as the only rapper maintaining a strong competitive edge. He commended Cole's commitment to lyricism and his unwavering pursuit of excellence, suggesting that Cole's approach to his craft reflects a genuine desire to uphold the tradition of lyrical prowess in hip-hop.
I haven’t taken a real deep look out into the landscape but from where I’m sitting it looks like J. Cole the only one being competitive. He’s the only one who’s rapping with the kind of conviction that says I still value the number one spot as a lyricist. I see a lot of the younger generations not really hanging their hat on just the lyrical part of creativity at all. They’re finding different ways to impact and resonate with people which is fine.Royce acknowledged the shifting priorities of younger artists, noting that many are exploring diverse avenues of creativity beyond traditional lyricism. While he respects this evolution, he emphasizes the importance of understanding the appeal of different styles and approaches to music-making.”
- Royce Da 5'9"
Royce Da 5’9″ Affirms J. Cole's Continual Competitiveness in Hip-Hop:
As an elder statesman in the hip-hop community, Royce expressed a willingness to adapt and learn from the evolving trends in the genre. He emphasized the need to remain open-minded and receptive to new forms of expression, even if they diverge from traditional lyrical-focused approaches.
Joe Budden echoed Royce's sentiments, offering his perspective on the hierarchy of contemporary hip-hop artists. He positioned J. Cole at the top of his list, expressing hope for Kendrick Lamar's upcoming album to potentially challenge that ranking. Budden also commented on Drake's success, likening his musical endeavors to a theme park experience.
Overall, the conversation highlighted the ongoing dialogue within the hip-hop community regarding the balance between lyrical skill and innovation in music. While artists like J. Cole continue to prioritize traditional lyricism, others explore alternative avenues for connecting with audiences. As the genre continues to evolve, discussions like these serve as valuable insights into the ever-changing landscape of hip-hop.