Jermaine Lamarr Cole
Born January 28, 1985, better known by his stage name J. Cole, is an American hip hop recording artist and record producer. Empathetic lyricism and true soul music remains the molten core of Cole’s work. (His new label Dreamville – its first two artists are Bas and Cozz – exemplifies that aesthetic. Get ready, 2015!) In the moment though, it’s Cole’s ability to reflect upon a situation, to not be afraid to look back in order to progress, that takes the form of one striking couplet on the new album.s Yet for J. Cole and his fans, resolution lies just around the corner.
Musical career
Cole started rapping after receiving guidance from his cousin on the basics of rhyming and wordplay. Inspired mostly by rappers Canibus, Nas, Tupac and Eminem, Cole developed a love for telling stories in his lyrics.
Awards and nominations
- 2012: New Artist of the Year
- 2012: Best Rap/Hip Hop Album Cole
- 2011: Best New Artist
- 2012: Best Hip Hop Artist
- 2012: Best Collaboration: Party(Remix)
- 2014: Best Male Hip Hop Artist
- 2016: Best Male Hip Hop Artist
The Dreamville Foundation
In October 2011, Jermaine Cole established The Dreamville Foundation:s “The Dreamville Foundation is a non-profit organization 501(c)(3), created to “bridge the gap” between the worlds of opportunity and the urban youth of Fayetteville, NC. The foundation’s goal for the urban youth is to have a dream, believe in their dream, and achieve their dream. They offer a variety of programs geared towards inspiring Fayetteville's youth.
In 2014, Jermaine Cole purchased his childhood home in Fayetteville, NC for $120,000 through the Dreamville Foundation. The home had been repossessed from his mother two years earlier, while Jermaine was attending college in New York. His plan is to turn the house into a homestead for single mothers and their kids to live rent-free.
