J Cole Still Visits The Landlord That Used To Let Him Live Rent-Free

J. Cole reaches out to the landlord who let him live rent-free in his house when he was still broke and struggling.

Cole revisited this man, named Thomas, who offered him free shelter in exchange for a little help around the house.

In the early years of his music career, J. Cole faced challenges just like anyone who had to start a life or career from scratch with nothing to lean on. The now-famous rapper and two-time Grammy Award winner, among many other accolades, recalls how Thomas played a pivotal role in his journey.

Thomas, a music executive living as an average citizen, recognized J. Cole’s talent and potential when Cole was still an up-and-coming rapper and a student at St. John’s University in New York City. Thomas offered him a place to live, as it was quite difficult for J. Cole to make ends meet while simultaneously pursuing his music career.

This act of kindness helped him curb the worry of rent and living expenses, which in turn gave him the time and peace of mind to focus on his music while helping out around the house in exchange. This opportunity allowed J. Cole to work hard, which eventually led to him securing a deal with Roc Nation, owned by Jay-Z.

During many interviews, J. Cole has expressed his deep respect and appreciation for that act of kindness, which contributed greatly to shaping his career and where he is today.

One of the most notable interviews was the one he granted at “The Breakfast Club” in 2014, where he first shared the story of Thomas, the man who let him live rent-free in his house when he was still struggling to find a spot in the hip-hop industry.

Additionally, in his “2014 Forest Hills Drive” album, J. Cole reflected on his past and the people who helped him along the way. In the song “Love Yourz,” he expressed gratitude for the people who supported him, though the specific mention of Thomas is more directly shared in interviews rather than through his music.

Apart from that, J. Cole is famously known for his simple lifestyle and connection with his community, regardless of his status. He often rides his bike on the streets with no bodyguards while playing with kids and encouraging them to be well-mannered, concentrate on their studies, and be good people. He shares his story of growing up, allowing them to connect with him not as a celebrity, but as J. Cole.

He also has the Dreamville Foundation and Dreamville Festival, which aim to sponsor young people and youths living in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and provide educational and training facilities as well as scholarships.

J. Cole has carried out multiple charitable donations, like the one in 2017 when he donated $100,000 to support education for underprivileged youths. He also offered to build schools and other training facilities in his hometown of North Carolina.

J. Cole supports the Black Lives Matter movement, being vocal about injustice, racism, police brutality, and other issues through his music and public outings. He also marched during the protests following the murder of George Floyd. He donated significant sums of money to bail protesters and used his media platforms to call on everyone to join the movement

He doesn’t miss any opportunity to help and support fellow artists and those looking to find their spot in the music industry.

He often emphasizes kindness, preaching giving and making healthy relationships. He uses his success to make a positive impact and change the lives of others. He tries to be at peace with his colleagues and everyone, maintaining a healthy working and personal life. This is why he apologized to Kendrick Lamar and Drake during their recent feud, prioritizing brotherhood over unhealthy competition and fights.