Music

ASAP Rocky Enlists J Cole for Explosive Collab Amid Drake Feud Drama

ASAP Rocky is pulling out all the stops for his highly-anticipated new album, Don’t Be Dumb. In the works since the last decade, this album promises a star-studded lineup of collaborators, including renowned producers Madlib, Pharrell, and The Alchemist. Speculation is rife that Slick Rick and Rihanna might also make appearances. Adding to the buzz, DJ Kast One recently dropped by Hot 97 on July 26, revealing another major name on the album: J Cole.

DJ Kast One shared that he had the privilege of hearing Don’t Be Dumb and was blown away by a standout verse from Dreamville’s finest. “I heard J Cole,” he confirmed. “I heard songs being played.” This untitled, yet-to-be-released track marks the first collaboration between ASAP Rocky and J Cole in over a decade, following their joint effort on the “TKO” remix in 2013, which also featured Pusha T and Justin Timberlake.

The collaboration is generating significant excitement, not only because Rocky and Cole are generational peers but also due to the ongoing drama in the rap world. ASAP Rocky has been embroiled in a feud with Drake throughout 2024, dissing him on Future’s “Show of Hands” and vowing to continue the beef on Don’t Be Dumb. Meanwhile, J Cole, once an ally of Drake, has seemingly switched sides. The tension between Drake and Cole began with the “7 Minute Drill” controversy and escalated when Cole appeared on the same Future and Metro Boomin album where Rocky took shots at Drake.

DJ Kast One further stoked the flames, confirming that Rocky will be taking aim at Drake again on Don’t Be Dumb. This ongoing saga has fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the drama. With J Cole’s involvement, it’s clear that this album will be a significant moment in the evolving landscape of hip-hop rivalries. We’ve certainly come a long way since the days of “In the Morning.”

Artist Spotlight

“Empatia” by Aurien & Jab Vix set the tone for an atmospheric new era

“Empatia,“ the stunning electronic debut of Aurien, in collaboration with Jab Vix, is the start of a new creative universe under Aurien’s newly launched imprint Château Bonheur Musique. The track feels like a doorway into a curated emotional space, built from atmosphere, storytelling, and immersive sound design.

“Empatia” is founded upon a contemporary electronic aesthetics that favors texture. The production is sleek and considered, offering up soft rhythmic pulses within roomy layers that breathe. Working with Jab Vix gives texture and dynamics to Aurien’s perspective and sets the sound for the song. It’s more about feeling the music than looking for peaks of high energy. It builds slowly and invites you to sit in the mood.

A highlight is the “Elegant Mix,” which takes the original and gives it a more subdued, slicker makeover. It allows the heart of the composition to come through more intimately, and this duality reinforces the idea behind Château Bonheur Musique as environment, experience, and feeling. “Empatia” is a debut statement and manifesto for the immersive, emotionally intelligent electronic music that works as effortlessly as it does in shared spaces. It’s a thoughtful direction for Aurien, where sound is not just heard, but lived in.

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Artist Spotlight

Saint Escape injects an attitude into a classic for a new generation on latest release “Everybody Wants To Rule The World”

SAINT ESCAPE takes a classic favorite, “Everybody Wants To Rule The World,” and gives it a new twist, transforming the iconic hit into an alternative rock statement full of personality and modern flair.

Rather than just repeating a familiar song, Saint Escape offers a bold vision to the track. There’s a touch of “baddiecore-lite” attitude, married with alt-rock vibes, a feeling that seems tailor-made for those who love nostalgia but want something that speaks to today. The result is familiar, yet refreshingly different.

The track establishes its own identity right from the first moments. The alternative rock styling provides a sharper edge to the song’s timeless themes, making for a dynamic listening experience that feels vibrant and contemporary. With confidence in every note, the performance can stand on its own but still respect the legacy of the original.

While acknowledging the song’s emotional and cultural significance, Saint Escape also celebrates a more rebellious aesthetic. The “baddiecore-lite” influence adds an interesting attitude to the track, making it feel fun, confident and effortlessly cool.

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