There’s a reason why MC J. Cole is the first rapper in 25 years to have a platinum-selling album without the aid of features. The Grammy-nominated artist gave fans hope, hits and a solid set during his performance at Jazz Fest Sunday April 24. Taking place on the Congo Square Stage, Cole had a bevy of his diehard fans mouthing every lyric to every song from start to finish. Like many others who are still mourning the loss of the iconic musician Prince, Cole paid homage sporting a purple jersey with Prince’s immortalized insignia.
Cole performed for an hour and 45 minutes and his energy remained upbeat throughout the entire duration. Songs from his mixtape days including “The Come Up”, to hits from Born Sinner and 2014 Forest Hills Drive all made their way onto his set list. Fan favorites such as “Power Trip”, “Nobody’s Perfect”, and “Can’t Get Enough” plus conscionable lyrics continued to cement why Cole is a much-needed fixture in hip hop.
Towards the end of his set, Cole performed “Wet Dreamz” and told the audience, “I don’t care if you like one song by me or a whole album. I’m just thankful y’all came out.”
