On THE STREET - J-Hope and J-Cole

Released in 2023 as a single, On the Street is a moving rap song with lyrics that make the listener reflect on life. In the song, J-Hope and J-Cole both reflect on why they are spending their life rapping, and how choosing to live like this has its pro’s and cons. They lyrics are both in English and in Korean, due to J-Hope being a singer in the band BTS.

J-Cole’s verse in particular is moving because he reflects on their being a higher power guiding him, and how this higher power must be the only reason explaining how the world can be so complex and beautiful. Cole also speaks openly to the listener about the impact rapping is having on him being available to his daughter.

The song’s production is superb, and it blurs the line between being a rap song and a pop song. A windy sounding whistle repeats throughout the track giving the song a calming feel. By alternating the verses between English and Korean, the song never gets boring. This all comes together to create a very elaborate song that puts the listener in a calm, reflective mood. If you are a J-Cole fan, this is definitely one of his best!