The bleachers and courts of Whitaker Gym at Winston-Salem State were packed in anticipation of a live performance from J. Cole during the “Ram Battle 2010.”
Cole did not disappoint.
Unlike other artists who may sing a song or two during an event, Cole seemed eager to perform song after song from his catalog. He even went as far to rap verses from songs he was featured on, including “A Star is Born” from Jay-Z’s “Blueprint 3,” “Gladiators” from B.o.B’s “May 25th,” and “Beautiful Bliss” from Wale’s “Attention Deficit.”
Cole, a native of Fayetteville, is the first artist signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation record label. Even with such success it was evident that Cole is amazed at how far he has come. As the audience members began to recite his lyrics word for word Cole said it still amazes him to see people actually rap his songs.
With Cole performing in a small venue like Whitaker, an intimate setting was created. As soon as Cole began performing he immediately called for the audience to come closer and closer. The crowd certainly responded as they rushed toward the stage getting within just a few short feet of Cole and the stage.
In some instances Cole grabbed the hands of audience members and rapped his songs to them. In an almost show stealing moment Cole actually pulled a crowd member on stage and let her sing the chorus for his song “Dreams.” What was most impressive about this is that the more than willingly participant was actually a really talented singer. The audience and Cole alike seemed astonished.
The red jacket that was once on Cole’s back found its place on the floor of the stage as the artist covered in sweat began to hold nothing back in his performance. As an intermission Cole autographed magazines that he was featured on, and handed them out to the most lively and animated audience members.
It was a $5 well spent to see this killer performance, whether it was songs from his mixtapes, acapella verses or songs Cole is featured on, there was a little bit of everything for everyone.