After 17 long years, J. Cole’s groundbreaking debut mixtape, The Come Up, is officially available on all streaming platforms. The release marks a major moment for fans who have cherished the 2007 project as a cornerstone of the rapper’s career.
Coinciding with the mixtape’s arrival, Cole launched a new audio series titled Inevitable. The series’ debut episode dives deep into the creation and significance of The Come Up, giving listeners an intimate look at his early journey.
The Dreamville founder broke the news on Instagram on Monday (November 18), sharing the mixtape’s iconic cover art along with a heartfelt message: “The beginning. The Come Up finally available now on DSP’s.”
Adding to the excitement, Cole’s longtime manager Ibrahim “Ib” Hamad expressed his emotions on social media. “17 years later. Better late than never,” he wrote. “My brother @realcoleworld The Come Up out now on all DSP. This sh*t really started everything off… I’m about to shed a baby tear I’ll be back.”
The mixtape boasts 17 tracks, including standout hits like “School Daze,” “Simba,” and “Dollar and a Dream.” Known for its raw energy and creative sampling, The Come Up features beats inspired by hip-hop legends such as Nas, JAY-Z, and Kanye West.
This nostalgic release not only highlights J. Cole’s humble beginnings but also cements his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation.