Lil Durk Praises J. Cole, Jay-Z, and Lil Wayne, But Challenges Conventional Notions of ‘Lyrical’ Hip-Hop.


Lil Durk recently revealed that he isn’t particularly fond of “lyrical” rappers in the hip-hop genre.

During an interview with Spotify’s Rap Caviar, the OTF rapper discussed his single, “All My Life,” featuring J. Cole. Despite acknowledging Cole’s impressive skills and praising his verse on the track, Durk admitted that he generally isn’t drawn to artists who emphasize thought-provoking lyrics in their music.

“He went crаzy. I had to listen to it like four times,” Durk commented on Cole’s performance. “You know I ain’t suρer big on lyricist-type rappers. Cole was one of them ones that, like, him and [JAY-Z], you gotta play them 50 times to catch what they’re saying.”

Reflecting on another influential rapper, Lil Wayne, Durk highlighted how listeners can uncover new layers of meaning in his music even years after its release. However, he expressed gratitude for Cole’s contribution to the track, acknowledging that Cole didn’t have to deliver such a profound verse.

Despite his reservations about lyrical rappers, Durk has collaborated with several prominent figures in the genre, including Nas, Big Sean, J.I.D, Cordae, Chance The Rapper, and Talib Kweli. He explained during an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1’s New Music Daily that he personally selected Cole for the collaboration, emphasizing the positive energy he felt while creating the song.

Durk’s comments sparked discussion on social media, with some criticizing his stance on lyrical hip-hop and lamenting the perceived shift away from the genre’s roots.

While Durk’s opinions may differ from some fans’ expectations, his collaboration with J. Cole on “All My Life” continues to garner attention and acclaim within the hip-hop community.