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In J-Hope’s estimation, J. Cole’s legendary status remains untouchable. During a recent celebratory Weverse broadcast, the BTS star shared his immense admiration for his friend and collaborator’s latest musical endeavor, asserting that Cole’s new album, The Fall-Off, is an absolute masterpiece that “went crazy.”
The livestream, which took place on February 18 to coincide with the K-pop icon’s birthday, featured a heartfelt shout-out to the hip-hop titan. “Huge congratulations on the album, Cole hyung,” J-Hope told his viewers with a bright smile. In Korean culture, “hyung” is a term of endearment and respect used by men to address an older male friend or brother.
“The album is truly incredible,” J-Hope remarked. “You will always be my GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Thank you, brother. Sending you so much love.”
Released on February 6, The Fall-Off lived up to its monumental expectations, debuting at the summit of the Billboard 200. The project’s impact was felt across the charts as 21 of its tracks surged onto the Billboard Hot 100. This feat brought J. Cole’s career total to 111 entries, making him one of only 22 artists in history to surpass the 100-song milestone on the tally.
Beyond the commercial triumphs, J-Hope’s connection to J. Cole is deeply personal. The two icons first crossed paths at Lollapalooza in 2022, a meeting that eventually birthed their 2023 hit collaboration, “On the Street.” J-Hope’s reverence for the North Carolina rapper traces back to his adolescence; long before their professional partnership, BTS re-envisioned Cole’s “Born Sinner” into their own track, “Born Singer.” J. Cole personally authorized the release of their version for the group’s Proof anthology.
With The Fall-Off currently dominating the airwaves, the spotlight will soon shift back to BTS. After a hiatus focused on solo projects and the completion of mandatory military service, the septet is poised for a grand return. Their highly anticipated new album, Arirang, is scheduled for release on March 20.
