J Cole was the most recent artist on the receiving end of Canadian interviewer and musician Nardwaur’s unusual interview style. Nardwaur is an expert at getting the most obscure and unexpected details from celebs.
J Cole and Kendrick Go Way Back
During the latter half of the hour-long interview, Nardwaur asked Cole about his involvement in Kendrick Lamar’s record deal. Cole, after collecting himself, then revealed that he actually did play a role in putting Kendrick on.
“Who told you that?” Cole then asked Nardwaur, clearly perplexed. “Who gave you that piece of information? … The answer is yes. I did. I’m not gonna say I was the first to tell him […] I was like, ‘Yo, you gotta sign this kid from Compton, Kendrick.”
The ‘HUMBLE’ rapper would sign to Dre’s record label Aftermath Entertainment in 2013. Kendrick then quickly became a notable talent in the rap scene with introspective hits like ‘Swimming Pools’ and ‘Money Trees.’ He continues to contribute to the culture with his latest project, DAMN, and a new album currently in the works.
Cole also divulged to Nardwaur his past wishes to sign Kendrick to his own label Dreamville Records. He explained that despite his wishes to add Kendrick to his team, the record label wasn’t established enough for the move.
“We didn’t have our business intact, but that’s how much I rocked with him at that time. I met him, and instantly, I was highly impressed. That would’ve been the first artist in my mind [to sign], but come to find out, he had bigger shit going on.” He said.
Fast forward to 2021, and Dreamville is then known for its impressive roster. Their lineup includes Ari Lennox, JID, and Earthgang.
J Cole Gifted
Aside from Kendrick and Dreamville, the Cole’s and Nardwaur’s interview covered a variety of topics. He spoke on his childhood using the Roland TR-909 beat machine to perfect his craft early on and also how 15 became his favorite number.
As always, Nardwaur was generous with the gifts. Cole received one of J. Dilla’s turntables, a Breaks & Beats Spaceman doll, and also some pieces of vinyl, including ’40 Bars’ by Allen Iverson and “Armed and Extremely Dangerous,” by First Choice.
Watch the full J. Cole And Nardwaur interview below:
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Dreema Carrington|IG @dr3amgirl79|Twitter @notdreema