Content warning: This article includes mention of transphobic language.

Nearly three years after his last solo project dropped, rapper J. Cole released Might Delete Later through Cole World, Inc., and Interscope Records. The project, which features standout track “7 Minute Drill,” serves as a response to a diss from Kendrick Lamar on the track “Like That” featured on Metro Boomin and Future’s 2024 album WE DON’T TRUST YOU. 

While the album holds prestige for its collaboration with noted producers Mike WiLL Made-It and ATL Jacob, the album received criticism for its rather ineffective diss at Kendrick Lamar and its use of transphobic lyrics on the track “Pi” featuring Daylyt and Ab-Soul. Many fans took to social media over the weekend to criticize Cole’s use of transphobic language on the track. 

“Is you a demon or is that demeanor for the ‘Gram? Tell us/ They plead the fifth, I’m seeing hints of a trans fella,” Cole raps on the eighth track. “In cancel culture’s vicinity, he’s no killer, trust me/ Beneath his chosen identity, there is still a pussy, period.”

In addition to audiences deeming the verse transphobic, many fans have speculated about what the verse actually means. Some believe it’s a jab at Lamar’s 2022 track “Auntie Diaries” on which the Compton rapper discusses his relationship with a transgender family member.

Over the weekend at J. Cole’s “Dreamville” Festival, the North Carolina rapper apologized for the diss at Kendrick Lamar, stating that he felt terrible since releasing the song and calling it a “misstep.” Cole said he hopes Lamar will forgive him for the diss and even said that he would “take it on the chin” if Lamar decided to respond negatively. 

Two highlights of the mixtape are “H.Y.B” featuring Bas and Central Cee, which see the rappers exchanging verses about sex, relationships and money. Because of Central Cee’s rising status as a rapper from London, the track possesses replayable value that fans might enjoy for years to come. Additionally, another highlight of the album is the track  “Trae The Truth in Ibiza” which takes its name from Houston native rapper, Trae Tha Truth. 

While the album received scrutiny for its unsuccessful attempt at a Kendrick Lamar diss by claiming Lamar’s albums have been subpar, fans and critics alike denounced the album for its use of transphobic language. Tracks like “H.Y.B” and “Stickz N Stonez” as well as “Trae The Truth in Ibiza” serve as highlights from an otherwise mediocre album in a discography many claim to be one of the greatest in 21st century rap music. It’s best that J. Cole take his own advice and delete this project, sooner rather than later. 

2 “Crocodile Tearz” out of 5