J. Cole’s Back: Fans Said It Best on "Ruby Rosary"

Written By: Jon Gauster

J. Cole’s Back - A promotional image for the music article about A$AP Rocky and J. Cole's single "Ruby Rosary".

A$AP Rocky and J. Cole Drop “Ruby Rosary”

On September 6th, A$AP Rocky and J. Cole released their single “Ruby Rosary.” The song’s been met with overwhelming positivity, and fans are proclaiming the return of J. Cole.

The Track’s Vibe and Rocky’s Performance

The track has an immediate gangster rap tempo. This leaves plenty of room for descriptive, story-like lyrics that resonate with a purpose. A$AP Rocky can be heard falling into his old cadence and rhythm, which generates a lot of excitement from fans.

J. Cole’s Standout Verse

Cole’s entry around the 2:56 mark feels like diving into a sea of rhythm and rhyme. The melody guides like a current. Its melodramatic ambience gives a sense of somber, creating an eerie vibe for listeners.

Rocky Explains the Song’s Deeper Meaning

Revolt reports that in a recent interview with Billboard, Rocky explains how the song relates to the dark side of current world affairs, like war and “the world dying and what not.”

Tim Burton Gets an Early Listen

Rocky continues saying “At times like this, only two types of people strive and survive.” He goes on saying “I’m not trying to sound like I’m glorifying wars, (but) I think artists and druggies, they make it through. I mean, what (were) the hippies doing? They (were) getting high at Woodstock, and f**king, and having a great time, and having these hippie babies who subsequently had us.”

Before its release, A$AP also had the pleasure of playing the new single for Beetlejuice director, Tim Burton.

“I sat and I played the album for Tim Burton, and he was f**king with it heavy,” Rocky confided. “He was rocking his head and he’s like, ‘Wow! I didn’t know you made that kind of music!'”