From Drake and his latest album 'Iceman' to BigXthaPlug who just released 'Better Over Time'—we ranked the hottest rappers right now.
Dimas SanfiorenzoJ. Cole
J. Cole is an American rapper, singer, and producer who rose to prominence in the early 2010s with introspective lyricism and self-produced tracks. He founded Dreamville Records, a label that has launched influential artists like JID and EarthGang, and is celebrated for landmark albums like *2014 Forest Hills Drive* and *KOD*, which combine vivid storytelling with soulful, layered production. J. Cole’s career is marked by his approach to album releases that often include unexpected drops and accompanying documentary-style visuals. These elements invite listeners to engage with his music beyond just the sound, creating immersive experiences that explore themes like mental health and social justice in a deeply personal way. This method of storytelling sets him apart in hip-hop, where the integration of narrative and multimedia enhances the impact of his work.
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Trace William Cowen
These are the best rap albums of 2026, featuring Drake's 'Habibti' add on 'FOMO', Yeat's 'COCOON', and more.
Dimas Sanfiorenzo
The former 49er QB reveals new details about his NFL career, his protest against police brutality, and his relationship with Jay Z.
Thomas GolianopoulosLatest Stories
J. Cole Praises Mark Pitts for Helping Jay-Z and Nas Squash Their Legendary Beef
Cole praises his longtime mentor as Pitts recalls bringing Jay-Z and Nas together to end their feud.
Mark Elibert9 days ago
J. Cole Backs Out of Retirement Plans: 'I'm Not Using That Word At All'
The man behind 'The Fall-Off' explained his "intentions" about the album.
Jaelani Turner-Williams9 days ago
J. Cole Recalls Past Hesitance to Work With 'Top Dogs' in Production
Cole argued that working with hit-making producers would have been "too quick" in his early career process.
Jaelani Turner-Williams9 days ago
Lil Durk's Lawyers Propose 'Robust' Bond Package Including Royalties, Publishing, Mom's Home, More
A bond hearing is set for early next month.
Trace William Cowen9 days ago
Jay-Z and J. Cole Write Letters Supporting Lil Durk to the Judge Before His Bond Hearing
As the rap superstar fights for pretrial freedom, Hov and Cole step forward with personal pleas to the court.
Alex Ocho10 days ago
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Anderson .Paak and Cordae's Joint Album 'Heavy Is the Crown' Is Here: Listen Now
The duo is commemorating the album launch with an exclusive pop-up experience at Complex LA.
Trace William Cowen14 days ago
50 Cent Says J. Cole Sitting Out the Kendrick-Drake War Cost Him More Than Anyone
He did commend Cole for being "one of the coolest people to grace hip-hop culture."
Trey Alston23 days ago
DJ Akademiks Compares J. Cole to Kawhi Leonard At ComplexCon 2026
His basis? J. Cole's perceived lack of drive to be the best.
Trey Alston33 days ago
Jim Jones Once Again Recalls Passing on Signing Drake and J. Cole: ‘I F*cked That Bag Up'
Jones admits he "did bad" after failing to capitalize on opportunities with Drake and J. Cole.
Mark Elibert38 days ago
Colin Kaepernick Shows Love to J. Cole After Getting Memoir Shoutout
The former NFL quarterback thanked the rapper on social media.
Jose Martinez39 days ago
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Sandra Bullock Says Her Kids Put Her On to J. Cole: 'Wooo, He's Good'
Bullock praised J. Cole after revealing her children introduced her to his music.
Mark Elibert39 days ago
The Making of J. Cole's 'Cole World: The Sideline Story'
J. Cole's debut turns 15. Revisit our track-by-track breakdown with Cole, No I.D., Mark Pitts, and more.
Insanul Ahmed40 days ago
J. Cole Credits Jay-Z for Not Rushing Release of "Wet Dreamz": 'Thank God'
J. Cole recalled that Jay-Z "probably knew" that he needed more "development" before releasing the 2015 single.
Jaelani Turner-Williams61 days ago
J. Cole Cancels Sacramento Show After Touring Crew Member's Death
A truck driver's vehicle overturned after drifting.
Trey Alston71 days ago