After years of buzz (and turning down major label deals to stay independent until the right moment), J. Cole finally dropped his first studio album. It had everything: the hungry single “Who Dat,” the heartfelt “Breakdown,” and the inescapable “Work Out” (which Cole has since called his least favorite hit, ironically).

Nostalgic, triumphant, spiritually healing. 4. 4 Your Eyez Only (2016) A concept album disguised as a standard rap release. Cole tells the story of a friend who died too young, from the perspective of that friend speaking to his young daughter. It’s quiet, jazz-influenced, and devastating. No bangers. Just grief, love, and legacy.

“my .life” (feat. 21 Savage & Morray), “pride is the devil” (feat. Lil Baby), “hunger on hillside”

What’s your favorite J. Cole album? Let me know in the comments.