Meaning and Lyrics of MIDDLE CHILD by J. Cole
Song Lyrics meaning of MIDDLE CHILD by J. Cole
About J. Cole
J. Cole
Born Jermaine Lamarr Cole on January 28, 1985, in Frankfurt, Germany, J. Cole is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is known for his introspective lyrics and socially conscious themes in his music. J. Cole gained recognition with his debut mixtape, “The Come Up,” in 2007 and has since released multiple successful albums, including “2014 Forest Hills Drive” and “KOD.”
One of J. Cole’s popular songs is “MIDDLE CHILD,” which was released in 2019. The track showcases his lyrical skills and addresses his position in the rap industry as a “middle child” between the older and newer generations of hip-hop artists. It received critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying J. Cole’s reputation as one of the leading figures in contemporary rap music.
Meaning of MIDDLE CHILD by J. Cole
“MIDDLE CHILD” by J. Cole is a song packed with deep and thoughtful reflections on the rapper’s position in the hip-hop industry and the societal issues affecting his community. Here is a detailed interpretation of the song:
Intro
The song opens with a casual acknowledgment to T-Minus before diving into the raw emotions that J. Cole will soon express.
Refrain
In the refrain, J. Cole addresses the themes of being underestimated, preparedness, and the harsh reality of the industry. He highlights the imbalance between genuine talent and superficial success, while also asserting his recommitment to his craft and authenticity.
Verse 1
J. Cole delves into his personal values, like avoiding substance abuse, loyalty to his friends, and the importance of uplifting his community. He juxtaposes material success with emotional and social well-being, emphasizing that true wealth lies in lifting others up alongside oneself. He also references his ethical stance on conflicts in the industry, asserting that any confrontation would be a result of legitimacy rather than for attention or financial gain.
In the second part of the verse, J. Cole reflects on his journey, acknowledging the influence of those who came before him and asserting his belief in his own greatness despite potential doubters or critics. He dismisses the need for validation or promotion, asserting his position through his talent and intentions.
Chorus
The chorus touches on themes of authenticity, self-awareness, and the pressure to remain genuine in an environment that may prioritize material success over personal integrity. J. Cole emphasizes that true authenticity is not derived from external symbols like money or weapons but from one’s actions and values.
Verse 2
J. Cole describes himself as being caught between two generations, symbolizing his unique position in the rap landscape. He narrates interactions with younger artists like 21 Savage and Kodak Black, acknowledging the challenges they face and the need for guidance and mentorship in a world rife with obstacles. J. Cole reflects on the cycle of trauma, incarceration, and self-destruction prevalent in his community, acknowledging the urgent need for healing and empowerment.
Outro
The outro reaffirms the message that true authenticity is not defined by material possessions but by one’s actions and values. J. Cole emphasizes that realness comes from within, not from external markers of success or power.
In summary, “MIDDLE CHILD” by J. Cole is a powerful anthem that explores themes of identity, authenticity, mentorship, and social responsibility. It showcases J. Cole’s introspective lyrics and his commitment to remaining true to himself while addressing critical issues within the hip-hop culture and society at large.
Intro
The song opens with a casual acknowledgment to T-Minus before diving into the raw emotions that J. Cole will soon express.
Refrain
In the refrain, J. Cole addresses the themes of being underestimated, preparedness, and the harsh reality of the industry. He highlights the imbalance between genuine talent and superficial success, while also asserting his recommitment to his craft and authenticity.
Verse 1
J. Cole delves into his personal values, like avoiding substance abuse, loyalty to his friends, and the importance of uplifting his community. He juxtaposes material success with emotional and social well-being, emphasizing that true wealth lies in lifting others up alongside oneself. He also references his ethical stance on conflicts in the industry, asserting that any confrontation would be a result of legitimacy rather than for attention or financial gain.
In the second part of the verse, J. Cole reflects on his journey, acknowledging the influence of those who came before him and asserting his belief in his own greatness despite potential doubters or critics. He dismisses the need for validation or promotion, asserting his position through his talent and intentions.
Chorus
The chorus touches on themes of authenticity, self-awareness, and the pressure to remain genuine in an environment that may prioritize material success over personal integrity. J. Cole emphasizes that true authenticity is not derived from external symbols like money or weapons but from one’s actions and values.
Verse 2
J. Cole describes himself as being caught between two generations, symbolizing his unique position in the rap landscape. He narrates interactions with younger artists like 21 Savage and Kodak Black, acknowledging the challenges they face and the need for guidance and mentorship in a world rife with obstacles. J. Cole reflects on the cycle of trauma, incarceration, and self-destruction prevalent in his community, acknowledging the urgent need for healing and empowerment.
Outro
The outro reaffirms the message that true authenticity is not defined by material possessions but by one’s actions and values. J. Cole emphasizes that realness comes from within, not from external markers of success or power.
In summary, “MIDDLE CHILD” by J. Cole is a powerful anthem that explores themes of identity, authenticity, mentorship, and social responsibility. It showcases J. Cole’s introspective lyrics and his commitment to remaining true to himself while addressing critical issues within the hip-hop culture and society at large.
Lyrics of MIDDLE CHILD by J. Cole
Intro
You good, T-Minus?
Refrain
n****s been countin' me out
I’m countin' my bullets, I'm loadin’ my clips
I'm writin' down names, I'm makin' a list
I'm checkin' it twice and I'm gettin’ ’em hit
The real ones been dyin', the fake ones is lit
The game is off balance, I’m back on my shit
The Bentley is dirty, my sneakers is dirty
But that's how I like it, you all on my dick
Verse 1
I'm all in my bag, this hard as it get
I do not snort powder, I might take a sip
I might hit the blunt, but I'm liable to trip
I ain’t poppin' no pill, but you do as you wish
I roll with some fiends, I love 'em to death
I got a few mil' but not all of them rich
What good is the bread if my n****s is broke?
What good is first class if my n****s can't sit?
That's my next mission, that's why I can't quit
Just like LeBron, get my n****s more chips
Just put the Rollie right back on my wrist
This watch came from Drizzy, he gave me a gift
Back when the rap game was prayin' I'd diss
They act like two legends cannot coexist
But I'd never beef with a n***a for nothin'
If I smoke a rapper, it's gon' be legit
It won't be for clout, it won't be for fame
It won't be 'cause my shit ain't sellin' the same
It won't be to sell you my latest lil' sneakers
It won't be 'cause some n***a slid in my lane
Everything grows, it's destined to change
I love you lil' n****s, I'm glad that you came
I hope that you scrape every dollar you can
I hope you know money won't erase the pain
To the OGs, I'm thankin' you now
Was watchin' you when you was pavin' the ground
I copied your cadence, I mirrored your style
I studied the greats, I'm the greatest right now
f**k if you feel me, you ain't got a choice
I ain't do no promo, still made all that noise
This year gon' be different, I set my intentions
I promise to slap all that hate out your voice
Refrain
n****s been countin' me out
I'm countin' my bullets, I'm loadin' my clips
I'm writin' down names, I'm makin' a list
I'm checkin' it twice and I'm gettin' 'em hit
The real ones been dyin', the fake ones is lit
The game is off balance, I'm back on my shit
The Bentley is dirty, my sneakers is dirty
But that's how I like it, you all on my dick
Chorus
I just poured somethin' in my cup
I've been wantin' somethin' I can feel
Promise I am never lettin' up
Money in your palm don't make you real
Foot is on they neck, I got 'em stuck
I'ma give 'em somethin' they can feel
If it ain't 'bout the squad, don't give a f**k
Pistol in your hand don't make you real
Verse 2
I'm dead in the middle of two generations
I'm little bro and big bro all at once
Just left the lab with young 21 Savage
I'm 'bout to go and meet Jigga for lunch
Had a long talk with the young n***a Kodak
Reminded me of young n****s from 'Ville
Straight out the projects, no fakin', just honest
I wish that he had more guidance, for real
Too many n****s in cycle of jail
Spending they birthdays inside of a cell
We coming from a long bloodline of trauma
We raised by our mamas, Lord, we gotta heal
We hurting our sisters, the babies as well
We killing our brothers, they poisoned the well
Distorted self-image, we set up to fail
I'ma make sure that the real gon' prevail, n***a
Chorus
I just poured somethin' in my cup
I've been wantin' somethin' I can feel
Promise I am never lettin' up
Money in your palm don't make you real
Foot is on they neck, I got 'em stuck
I'ma give 'em somethin' they can feel
If it ain't 'bout the squad, don't give a f**k
Pistol in your hand don't make you real
Outro
Money in your palm don't make you real
Pistol in your hand don't make you real
Money in your palm don't make you real
You good, T-Minus?
Refrain
n****s been countin' me out
I’m countin' my bullets, I'm loadin’ my clips
I'm writin' down names, I'm makin' a list
I'm checkin' it twice and I'm gettin’ ’em hit
The real ones been dyin', the fake ones is lit
The game is off balance, I’m back on my shit
The Bentley is dirty, my sneakers is dirty
But that's how I like it, you all on my dick
Verse 1
I'm all in my bag, this hard as it get
I do not snort powder, I might take a sip
I might hit the blunt, but I'm liable to trip
I ain’t poppin' no pill, but you do as you wish
I roll with some fiends, I love 'em to death
I got a few mil' but not all of them rich
What good is the bread if my n****s is broke?
What good is first class if my n****s can't sit?
That's my next mission, that's why I can't quit
Just like LeBron, get my n****s more chips
Just put the Rollie right back on my wrist
This watch came from Drizzy, he gave me a gift
Back when the rap game was prayin' I'd diss
They act like two legends cannot coexist
But I'd never beef with a n***a for nothin'
If I smoke a rapper, it's gon' be legit
It won't be for clout, it won't be for fame
It won't be 'cause my shit ain't sellin' the same
It won't be to sell you my latest lil' sneakers
It won't be 'cause some n***a slid in my lane
Everything grows, it's destined to change
I love you lil' n****s, I'm glad that you came
I hope that you scrape every dollar you can
I hope you know money won't erase the pain
To the OGs, I'm thankin' you now
Was watchin' you when you was pavin' the ground
I copied your cadence, I mirrored your style
I studied the greats, I'm the greatest right now
f**k if you feel me, you ain't got a choice
I ain't do no promo, still made all that noise
This year gon' be different, I set my intentions
I promise to slap all that hate out your voice
Refrain
n****s been countin' me out
I'm countin' my bullets, I'm loadin' my clips
I'm writin' down names, I'm makin' a list
I'm checkin' it twice and I'm gettin' 'em hit
The real ones been dyin', the fake ones is lit
The game is off balance, I'm back on my shit
The Bentley is dirty, my sneakers is dirty
But that's how I like it, you all on my dick
Chorus
I just poured somethin' in my cup
I've been wantin' somethin' I can feel
Promise I am never lettin' up
Money in your palm don't make you real
Foot is on they neck, I got 'em stuck
I'ma give 'em somethin' they can feel
If it ain't 'bout the squad, don't give a f**k
Pistol in your hand don't make you real
Verse 2
I'm dead in the middle of two generations
I'm little bro and big bro all at once
Just left the lab with young 21 Savage
I'm 'bout to go and meet Jigga for lunch
Had a long talk with the young n***a Kodak
Reminded me of young n****s from 'Ville
Straight out the projects, no fakin', just honest
I wish that he had more guidance, for real
Too many n****s in cycle of jail
Spending they birthdays inside of a cell
We coming from a long bloodline of trauma
We raised by our mamas, Lord, we gotta heal
We hurting our sisters, the babies as well
We killing our brothers, they poisoned the well
Distorted self-image, we set up to fail
I'ma make sure that the real gon' prevail, n***a
Chorus
I just poured somethin' in my cup
I've been wantin' somethin' I can feel
Promise I am never lettin' up
Money in your palm don't make you real
Foot is on they neck, I got 'em stuck
I'ma give 'em somethin' they can feel
If it ain't 'bout the squad, don't give a f**k
Pistol in your hand don't make you real
Outro
Money in your palm don't make you real
Pistol in your hand don't make you real
Money in your palm don't make you real
Discography J. Cole
Might Delete Later
Release: 2024-04-05
Label: Cole World, Inc. under exclusive license to Interscope Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏👏
D-Day: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape
Release: 2022-03-31
Label: Cole World, Inc. under exclusive license to Interscope Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏
The Off-Season
Release: 2021-05-14
Label: Dreamville, Inc., Under exclusive license to Roc Nation Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏
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