J. Cole has released a new track titled “Port Antonio,” which addresses the ongoing feud between rappers Kendrick Lamar and Drake.
This song marks Cole’s significant entry into the competitive arena of diss tracks following his earlier contributions, including a verse on Drake’s “First Person Shooter” where he dubbed the three artists as the “big three” of mainstream rap. His previous track “7 Minute Drill” also ignited discussions on Lamar’s recent works. Lamar responded with the assertive line, “Motherfuck the big three.… it’s just big me,” leading to further exchanges among the artists, including Drake’s “Push Ups” and Cole’s subsequent apology.
In “Port Antonio,” Cole seems to take on the role of mediator, rapping, “They say I’m pickin’ sides, don’t you lie on me. Drake, you’ll always be my n***a; I ain’t ashamed to say you did a lot for me.” He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in artistry, urging a return to genuine creative expression amidst the narratives that surround rap rivalries.
The track, which features a reimagined version of Cleo Sol’s “Know That You Are Loved,” criticizes artists who exploit algorithms to boost their streams and influence public opinion. Cole reflects on the current climate of rap wars, noting the obsession with viral moments on social media.
Ultimately, “Port Antonio” asserts Cole’s desire to stay out of the conflict, conveying, “I pulled the plug because I seen where that was ’bout to go. They wanted blood, they wanted clicks to make they pockets grow.” Through this song, Cole articulates his respect for both artists while cautioning against losing friendships over industry rivalries.
