Brooklyn-based rapper Joey Badass has ignited heated speculation among fans and the hip-hop community with the release of his new track, “Sorry Not Sorry.” Listeners have pointed to certain lyrics in the song that seem to allude to J. Cole, sparking rumors of a possible diss. As the conversation swirls, fans and critics are dissecting the song’s content, raising questions about the relationship between the two respected artists.
Breaking Down the Speculation
The controversy stems from a verse in “Sorry Not Sorry” where Joey appears to take shots at an unnamed rapper, criticizing their approach to the industry and questioning their authenticity. Lines like, “Claiming king but never wore the crown / Talking truth, but only playing around,” have led fans to draw connections to J. Cole, who is widely celebrated for his introspective and socially conscious lyrics.
Adding fuel to the fire, Joey mentions “carrying the real on his back,” which some interpret as a jab at Cole’s self-proclaimed role as a voice for the culture. Given the competitive nature of hip-hop, such lyrical sparring isn’t uncommon, but it has left fans debating whether this was a genuine diss or simply a general commentary on the state of the rap game.
The Artists’ History
Joey Badass and J. Cole have previously expressed mutual respect, making the speculation even more intriguing. Cole has often praised Joey for his raw talent and ability to weave profound messages into his music, while Joey has acknowledged Cole as a major influence on his career. This history of admiration has left many fans puzzled about the perceived tension.
However, hip-hop has a long tradition of friendly rivalries, where artists challenge each other through their art. Fans are divided on whether Joey’s lyrics were intended as a critique of Cole or if they were simply a reflection of Joey’s own growth and confidence as an artist.
Fans React on Social Media
Social media platforms erupted with reactions following the song’s release. On Twitter, hashtags like #JoeyBadass and #JColeDiss began trending as fans shared their interpretations.
One user wrote, “Joey Badass calling out J. Cole? That’s bold, but I think it’s just lyrical competition.” Another commented, “If this is about Cole, I hope it’s just the start of a collab battle. Both artists could take this to another level.”
Some fans, however, dismissed the speculation altogether, arguing that Joey’s lyrics were intentionally ambiguous and open to interpretation.
Joey Badass Responds to Rumors
In the wake of the speculation, Joey addressed the rumors during an Instagram Live session. While he didn’t explicitly confirm or deny the connection to J. Cole, he emphasized that “Sorry Not Sorry” is about staying authentic and calling out the hypocrisy he sees in the industry. “If the shoe fits, wear it,” Joey said cryptically, further fueling the debate.
As the speculation continues, fans are eager to see if J. Cole will respond, either through social media or in his music. Whether this is a genuine diss or a case of fans reading too much into the lyrics, the conversation has brought renewed attention to both artists.
For now, “Sorry Not Sorry” serves as a reminder of the power of hip-hop to spark discussion and keep audiences guessing. Whether friend or foe, Joey Badass and J. Cole have once again proven their ability to captivate the rap world.
