According to HipHopDX, J. Cole has finally provided the long-awaited clarity on his upcoming project The Fall-Off, revealing that it will be a double album. The North Carolina rapper also released a surprise EP titled Birthday Blizzard ’26, hosted by the legendary DJ Clue, to celebrate his recent birthday and build momentum for the main release.
The announcement included a look at the official artwork and a partial tracklist that suggests a deep dive into the rapper’s legacy. Fans were particularly stunned by a track titled “Squashed,” where Cole reportedly uses his lyrical prowess to metaphorically bridge the historic rift between 2Pac and Biggie Smalls.
In addition to the album news, Cole addressed a brewing legal situation involving Cam’ron. The dispute reportedly stems from a $500,000 lawsuit regarding the “Ready ’24” collaboration, which Cole addressed directly in his new music, signaling his intent to resolve industry tensions through his art.
* HotNewHipHop confirms: “J. Cole explains The Fall-Off artwork, confirms it will be a double album.”
* DJ Clue shared on Instagram: “The Blizzard is here! J. Cole just changed the temperature of the game.”
Echotitbits take: J. Cole is leaning heavily into his “statesman” era by attempting to unify hip-hop history while maintaining his competitive edge. The decision to release a double album indicates a massive amount of vault material being cleared, likely signaling that his rumored retirement from solo albums is drawing closer.
Source: BillBoard — https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/j-cole-the-fall-off-tracklist-1236173166/ February 15, 2026
Photo Credit: BillBoard
Tag: hip hop news
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J. Cole Sets Hip-Hop Ablaze with Surprise ‘The Fall-Off’ Details
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Wiz Khalifa Mourns Father as Hip-Hop Community Rallies Support
According to TMZ, rapper Wiz Khalifa is grieving the sudden loss of his father, Laurence Thomaz, who passed away at the age of 63. The news broke early Saturday, prompting an outpouring of condolences from fellow artists like Snoop Dogg and Ty Dolla $ign. Wiz, who often spoke about his father’s influence on his laid-back demeanor and work ethic, has reportedly stepped away from scheduled appearances to be with family.
The loss comes at a time when Wiz has been active in the “lifestyle” space, promoting his various business ventures. Sources close to the rapper say his father was a “pillar of strength” who encouraged his early forays into the Pittsburgh music scene. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, but the family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Rap-Up confirmed the passing, noting that the hip-hop world is in mourning. They quoted a social media tribute: “Rest in power to a real one, the man who gave us Wiz.” The Shade Room also verified the news, sharing a throwback photo of the duo. They quoted a fan’s comment that resonated with many: “You can see where Wiz gets his smile and spirit from. Sending love to the Taylor Gang family.”
Echotitbits Take
Losing a parent is a universal pain, but for a public figure like Wiz Khalifa, whose brand is built on “positive vibes,” this is a heavy blow. His father was a veteran and a significant figure in his personal life. Watch for Wiz to potentially channel this grief into a soulful, introspective project—a departure from his usual party anthems.
Source: TMZ — https://www.tmz.com/2026/02/14/wiz-khalifa-dad-dead/ February 14, 2026
Photo Credit: TMZ -
J. Cole Stuns Fans by ‘Squashing’ 2Pac and Biggie Feud on New Album
In a post shared by @hiphopdx, it was revealed that J. Cole has used his highly anticipated final album, The Fall-Off, to conceptually “resolve” the legendary rivalry between 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G. Using innovative storytelling and AI-assisted vocal layering (with estate permission), Cole creates a track where the two icons exchange verses of reconciliation. The move has sparked an intense debate within the Hip-Hop community about the ethics of posthumous collaborations.
The album, which Cole has long teased as his curtain call, explores themes of legacy, the evolution of rap, and the weight of being a “G.O.A.T.” By addressing the East Coast-West Coast beef, Cole positions himself as the genre’s ultimate diplomat. The production, handled largely by Cole himself, has been described as a “masterclass in soul-sampling and lyricism.”
Complex confirmed the track’s existence, reporting that Cole “squashes the 2Pac and Biggie beef” through a double-album concept. They quoted a reviewer saying, “Cole isn’t just rapping; he’s acting as a historian for the culture.” Rap-Up also covered the release, noting that J. Cole wants the judge to toss a $500k lawsuit from Cam’ron while the album climbs the charts. They quoted Cole: “This project is my letter to the legends who paved the way.”
Echotitbits Take
J. Cole is taking a massive swing here. While the “reconciliation” track is a beautiful sentiment, the use of AI-adjacent tech to simulate dead legends is a slippery slope. However, as a cultural move, it cements his status as the “peacekeeper” of rap. Expect The Fall-Off to dominate the Billboard 200 and spark a season-long discussion on the future of digital legacy in music.
Source: HipHopDX — https://hiphopdx.com/news/j-cole-2pac-biggie-song-fall-off/ February 14, 2026
Photo Credit: HipHopDX -
Cole Enlists Afrobeats Royalty for Highly Anticipated Final Album
In a post shared by @adedejiadeyanju on TheNet.ng, American rap titan J. Cole has officially confirmed that Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Tems will feature on his seventh and final studio album, The Fall Off. This collaboration marks a significant bridge between US Hip-Hop and the global Afrobeats movement as Cole prepares to take his final bow.
The album, which has been teased for years, is reportedly a double-disc project that explores Cole’s legacy and the evolution of rap culture. By including Burna Boy and Tems, Cole is doubling down on the “world music” influence that has permeated recent US Hip-Hop charts.
Insiders suggest that the tracks featuring the Nigerian duo are not just melodic hooks but deep, lyrical exchanges. Tems is rumored to appear on a soul-heavy ballad, while Burna Boy joins Cole on a high-energy track that blends boom-bap rhythms with West African percussion.
* HipHopDX: “J. Cole reveals The Fall Off tracklist, confirming it will be a double album with features from Burna Boy and Tems.”
* The Source: “The Fall Off comes with a powerful Nigerian stamp as Burna Boy and Tems join Cole’s final musical journey.”
Echotitbits Take: J. Cole has always been intentional with his “no features” era, so choosing Tems and Burna Boy for his swan song is a massive validation of Afrobeats’ staying power in the US. This moves beyond a “trend” and cements these Nigerian artists as essential peers to Hip-Hop’s elite. Watch for The Fall Off to dominate both the Billboard 200 and Nigerian streaming charts simultaneously upon release.
Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/musicbaseafrica/posts/-breaking-news-two-of-nigerias-greatest-and-biggest-exporters-of-afrobeats-are-f/913511877855881/?_rdc=1&_rdr# February 9, 2026
Photo Credit: Facebook
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Central Cee Reveals Conversion to Islam and New Name
In a post shared by @CentralCee, the British rap phenomenon has officially announced his conversion to Islam. The “Doja” hitmaker shared that he recently took his Shahada (the Islamic profession of faith), marking a significant spiritual turning point in his life. He also hinted at a new Muslim name, though he continues to use his professional moniker for his music career.
The rapper, who has strong ties to the UK rap scene and a massive global following, explained that his journey toward Islam has been a gradual process of self-reflection and seeking peace. The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from the Muslim community and fellow artists, many of whom welcomed him to the faith.
Central Cee’s conversion comes at the height of his fame, as he continues to dominate charts across Europe and North America. He noted that his new faith has already begun to influence his perspective on success and his responsibilities as a public figure.
Fans are curious to see if this spiritual shift will be reflected in his future lyrical content, which has traditionally focused on the gritty realities of London street life and his rapid rise to stardom.
* Legit NG covered the announcement: “The British rapper shared the news with his millions of followers, sparking a conversation about faith in the hip-hop community.”
* Daily Post Nigeria reported: “Central Cee has opened up about his spiritual journey, confirming he has taken his Shahada and embraced Islam.”
Echotitbits take: Central Cee is one of the most influential voices in global youth culture right now. His conversion follows a trend of high-profile UK artists seeking spiritual grounding amidst the chaos of the industry. This move will likely deepen his connection with his substantial Muslim fanbase in the UK, France, and West Africa, and could signal a shift toward more “conscious” themes in his upcoming projects.
Source: DailyPost — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/06/british-rapper-central-cee-converts-to-islam/ February 6, 2026
Photo Credit: DailyPost
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Kendrick Lamar Makes History as Most Awarded Rapper at 2026 Grammys
In a post shared by Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET), Kendrick Lamar has officially become the most awarded rapper in Grammy history following the 68th Annual ceremony. Lamar, who entered the night with nine nominations, secured key wins that pushed his career total past previous record-holders like Jay-Z and Kanye West.
The rapper’s dominance at this year’s awards was fueled by his critically acclaimed projects and the cultural impact of his recent lyrical battles, which resonated deeply with both fans and the Recording Academy. His win for “Best Rap Album” was cited as a career-defining moment that cements his legacy as the “G.O.A.T.” of his generation.
Despite his victory, the night was not without controversy, as several Nigerian stars like Burna Boy and Davido missed out on the newly established African categories. Lamar’s win, however, remains a focal point for US Hip-Hop culture, highlighting a return to lyrical depth in mainstream awards.
* The Guardian: “Kendrick Lamar leads the 2026 Grammys with nine nods, confirming his place among the greatest artists of all time.”
* The Root: “Kendrick’s night was a coronation, though the red carpet was filled with what some called ‘fashion trainwrecks’.”
Echotitbits take:
Kendrick Lamar is currently untouchable. His “clean sweep” narrative at the Grammys serves as a validation of his recent career moves and his ability to maintain artistic integrity while achieving commercial and institutional success. This record will likely stand for a long time.
Source: FORBES — https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2026/02/02/kendrick-lamar-follows-u2-with-a-historic-grammy-win/ February 2, 2026
Photo Credit: FORBES
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Drake Spotted at NBA Game with Rumored New Jewelry Collection
0Drake was spotted courtside at a Lakers game wearing a striking new chain that insiders say is tied to an upcoming jewelry collaboration with a renowned designer.
His courtside presence also sparked chatter about wider sports-media ambitions after he was seen in conversation with LeBron James, adding fuel to business-rumor cycles.
TMZ and Hypebeast have echoed the jewelry buzz and the luxury-accessories angle around the sighting.
Echotitbits take: Drake remains the master of headline-by-appearance. Big “ice” moments often precede bigger brand announcements, and the sports + luxury crossover keeps him planted at the center of pop culture’s attention economy.
Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/insaneluxurylife/posts/drake-attended-the-latest-raptors-nba-game-wearing-his-ultra-rare-out-of-catalog/1361797505604380/?_rdc=1&_rdr# (2026-01-30)
Photo Credit: Facebook
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Ye Reveals Past Brain Injury in Public Apology
In a full-page Wall Street Journal advertisement, Ye revealed he suffered a significant injury to the right frontal lobe during a car accident 25 years ago.
The ad also included an apology for his past antisemitic remarks and framed the disclosure as part of taking accountability.
The move has generated mixed public reactions—some seeing sincerity, others questioning timing—while reopening conversations about neurological health, celebrity conduct, and public responsibility.
Echotitbits take: Ye is the master of the unpredictable pivot. By citing a physical brain injury from his 2002 crash, he’s attempting to reframe his narrative from ‘villain’ to ‘medical context.’ Whether it lands as a genuine reset or opportunistic PR, it clearly lowers the runway for a new project cycle.
Source: The Guardian – https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/jan/26/kanye-west-takes-out-full-page-ad-apologising-for-antisemitic-behaviour-and-denying-he-is-a-nazi-ye 2026-01-29
Photo Credit: The Guardian -
Kendrick Lamar Within Reach of Jay-Z’s All-Time Grammy Record
Covers.com reports that Kendrick Lamar is heading into the 2026 Grammy Awards with nine nominations, positioning him to potentially break Jay‑Z’s all‑time record for Grammys won by a rapper. Lamar reportedly has 22 Grammys and would need four more wins to surpass Jay‑Z’s 25.
Associated Press coverage cited in the item frames Lamar as a frontrunner in multiple major categories, while other outlets note the broader momentum around his recent chart dominance.
**Echotitbits take:** The “Kendrick vs. the world” narrative has led to a possible coronation moment. If he surpasses Jay‑Z, the GOAT debate moves from barbershop talk to record books—especially if he delivers a headline performance that addresses the year’s lyrical and legal drama.
Source: Grammy – https://www.grammy.com/news/rappers-who-have-the-most-grammy-wins (January 23, 2026)
Photo Credit: Grammy 2026-01-23
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Cardi B Goes Viral With a Banana ‘Image Etiquette’ Lesson as Relationship Drama Lingers
TMZ reports that Cardi B posted a comedic “class is in session” clip, jokingly coaching men on how to eat a banana in public without looking goofy—an instant viral hit.
Complex and AOL also highlighted the video’s spread across social platforms, where fans praised Cardi’s trademark humor and timing.
The post arrives amid renewed scrutiny of her relationship with NFL star Stefon Diggs, who faces allegations he has denied through his attorney.
Echotitbits Take: Cardi’s pivot game is elite—when the timeline gets too tense, she drops comedy that re-centers the conversation. Still, the serious legal chatter around Diggs won’t disappear on vibes alone.
Source: TMZ — https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/07/cardi-b-banana-eat-tutorial-for-men/ 2026-01-07
Photo Credit: TMZ