In a heartfelt moment that delighted fans across the globe, BTS’ j-hope Praises J. Cole as His ‘GOAT,’ Applauds Rapper for His ‘Crazy’ New Album during a recent livestream. The K-pop superstar didn’t hold back his admiration, proving once again that his respect for the North Carolina rapper runs deep.
A Birthday Livestream Filled With Love
While celebrating his Feb. 18 birthday on Weverse, j-hope took a moment to spotlight someone who has long inspired him: J. Cole. Congratulating his friend and collaborator on the release of The Fall-Off, j-hope enthusiastically shared his thoughts with fans watching live.
“Congrats on the album, Cole hyung,” he said warmly, using the Korean term “hyung,” a respectful and affectionate way for men to address an older male they feel close to. Beaming at the camera, he added, “The album went crazy for real! You’ll always be my GOAT. Thank you, brother. Much love to you.”
His excitement was genuine and unmistakable — a reminder that even global superstars can be passionate fans at heart.
The Success of The Fall-Off
The Fall-Off officially arrived on Feb. 6 and made an immediate impact. The project debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, further cementing J. Cole’s place among hip-hop’s elite.
The album also dominated the Billboard Hot 100, with 21 tracks landing on the chart simultaneously. That achievement pushed the rapper’s career total to 111 Hot 100 entries, making him one of only 22 artists in history to surpass the 100-song milestone.
Still, for j-hope, the numbers are just a bonus. His admiration for Cole goes far beyond chart statistics.
A Friendship Years in the Making
The connection between the two artists didn’t happen overnight. BTS first crossed paths with J. Cole at Lollapalooza, sparking a relationship that would eventually lead to their 2023 collaboration, “On the Street.”
But j-hope’s appreciation started long before that. As a teenager, he was deeply influenced by Cole’s music. In 2013, BTS paid tribute by reimagining Cole’s “Born Sinner” into “Born Singer” — a reinterpretation that the rapper personally approved for release on the group’s anthology album, Proof.
That full-circle moment — from teenage fan to trusted collaborator — speaks volumes about the bond they share.
BTS Gears Up for a New Era
With The Fall-Off now making waves worldwide, the spotlight is gradually shifting back to BTS. After spending the past few years pursuing solo ventures and completing mandatory military service in South Korea, the group is preparing for a long-awaited comeback.
The seven-member act is set to release Arirang on March 20, marking a fresh chapter for the global phenomenon. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how the group’s time apart has shaped their new sound.
For now, though, j-hope’s message is clear: no matter the charts, milestones, or industry trends, J. Cole will always hold GOAT status in his eyes.
