who produced power trip j cole

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Power Trip by J. Cole (featuring Miguel )

Songfacts®:

• This is the first single by American rapper J. Cole, from his second studio album Born Sinner . The love anthem finds Cole reflecting on a teenage crush and when the now successful Roc Nation rapper returns to his hometown, he finds he is still attracted to the doe-eyed girl. The song was released to Urban contemporary radio on February 19, 2013.
• Cole raps two verses, as well as co-handling hook duties on the cut with R&B singer Miguel. The rapper also self-produced the song. "I get excited about that; it's an opportunity to change things," he told MTV News. "It's almost like the first time I heard ' Cry Me a River ,' Justin Timberlake. The minute that came on ... It hit you a certain kinda way. That was the exciting part."
• It was the song's original sound that persuaded Cole to choose it to lead Born Sinner . "You couldn't point to any song on the radio and be like, 'This sounds like that,' " he told MTV News. "Everything about it, from the beat to even the way I'm flowing - you never really heard me rap so sleepily. I really did those verses in my crib and just loved the way they felt."
• Cole originally sang the hook by himself until Roc Nation founder Jay-Z gave him a bit of advice. "When I played it for Jay-Z, his first words were, 'Yo, you should get Miguel on this,'" the rapper recalled to Billboard magazine.
• Cole raps in his first verse to his crush that he "even wrote the song 'Dreams' for you." This is a reference to an actual cut "Dreams," that appeared on the rapper's 2009 mixtape, The Warm Up . The track finds Cole fantasizing about murdering the boyfriend of a girl he barely knows, which would then give him the opportunity to console her.
• Cole came up with the concept for the video, which sees him kill Miguel over jealousy of his relationship with a woman. It was shot in Cole's hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina except for the final scene where he buries Miguel out in the woods on the outskirts of the city.
• It was Jay-Z who persuaded Cole to release this as the lead single from Born Sinner . "There was a point when I almost went with this other song as the [first] single," he explained to MTV News. "My team and people around me were like, 'Yo, you're bugging; you need to go with 'Power Trip.' So I called Mark Pitts, my manager, and he's like, 'You need to call Jay.'" He added: "His perspective on that - and period, since he's seen so much in the game - he really set me straight and let me know I was bugging. He was like, 'You've got to an opportunity to come in and usher a new sound, go with that!'"
• Cole told Rolling Stone that he created the track in his living room. "I made that beat," he said, "wrote that song, recorded the rough version of the vocals in my crib."
• The song samples "No More," a track from jazz flautist Hubert Laws' 1972 album Morning Star .
• Cole shouts out his landlord, Mohammed, who rented him an apartment in his early days in Jamaica, New York. "Even back then when I was up there in Mohammed crib Paying 1700 for the rent, money well spent No heater, but a n—- made heat, may I vent." Cole raps that the ridiculous amount he had to pay for rent in New York was money well spent. This was because being in the Big Apple helped him make the connections that eventually landed him his deal with Roc Nation.
• More songs from J. Cole
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The Meaning Behind The Song: Power Trip by J. Cole

Power Trip, a popular song by J. Cole, holds a significant meaning that resonates with many listeners. Released in 2013 as a single from his album, “Born Sinner,” the track delves into themes of unrequited love, obsession, and the toxic dynamics that can occur within relationships. J. Cole masterfully weaves together thought-provoking lyrics and a captivating melody to bring this intense narrative to life.

Table of Contents

The song revolves around the emotional turmoil experienced by an individual infatuated with a romantic interest who does not reciprocate their feelings. The lyrics shed light on the artist’s vulnerability and confusion, as he grapples with the complexities of his own emotions. J. Cole’s introspective approach encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with unrequited love and the power dynamics that arise from such situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what inspired j. cole to write “power trip”.

J. Cole drew inspiration from his personal experiences and observations of relationships gone awry. The song is a reflection of the complexities that arise when love becomes entangled with obsession and unreciprocated feelings. Cole’s ability to tap into his own emotions and translate them into relatable music is what makes “Power Trip” such a powerful and impactful song.

2. Who is the girl mentioned in the song?

While the specific identity of the girl in the song remains unknown, she symbolizes the unattainable love interest. The girl serves as a representation of anyone who has ever been the subject of unrequited love and the emotional rollercoaster that ensues. J. Cole’s lyrics create a universal experience that resonates with listeners who have faced similar situations in their own lives.

3. What is the main message behind “Power Trip”?

“Power Trip” delves into the complexities of love, obsession, and the inherent power imbalances that can emerge within relationships. The song highlights the struggles and emotional burden that often accompany unrequited love. It serves as a reminder to listeners that while love can be a beautiful and transformative experience, it can also become all-consuming and destructive if not navigated carefully.

4. How does “Power Trip” connect to J. Cole’s personal life?

J. Cole has often been open about drawing inspiration from his own personal experiences when crafting his music. While he has not explicitly revealed the exact events that inspired “Power Trip,” the song’s raw emotions and honest lyrics suggest a personal connection to the themes explored. J. Cole’s ability to merge his own experiences with relatable storytelling is part of what sets him apart as an artist.

5. What makes “Power Trip” stand out among J. Cole’s discography?

“Power Trip” stands out due to its introspective lyrics, catchy melodies, and the relatability of its theme. The song showcases J. Cole’s lyrical prowess and ability to tell a captivating story. With its emotionally charged verses and infectious chorus, “Power Trip” has become a fan favorite and a standout track in J. Cole’s discography.

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Song Meanings and Facts

Power Trip by J. Cole Lyrics Meaning – Navigating the Longest Crush Ever

by SMF AI · Published January 22, 2024 · Updated April 26, 2024

• Music Video

A Journey from the Bedroom to the Throne

Confessions and obsessions: the chorus that captivates, unveiling the song’s hidden meaning, the longest crush ever: love as an addiction, moments of impact: the most memorable lines.

OK, back when I was sleepin’ in my mama crib Even back then when I was up there in Mohammed crib Payin’ seventeen-hundred for the rent, money well spent No heater, but a nigga made heat, may I vent? Had a thing for you Even wrote the song dreams for you ‘Cause I had dreams for you, thoughts of a ring for you Childish shit, you know childish shit Anonymous flowers sent, you know coward shit Now a nigga signed to Hov, took a power trip Back home I’m grown now and this city’s my throne now The same clubs I used to get tossed out Life got crisscrossed, totally crossed out ‘Cause now I’m in this bitch and I’m totally bossed out Old chicks cryin’ ’cause they know that they lost out But I’m still on you, I’m still on you My drink spilled on me, while I feel on you, I’m saying

Would you believe me if I said I’m in love? Baby, I want you to want me Would you believe me if I said I’m in love? Baby, I want ya

And we are we are we are, got me up all night And we are we are we are, all I’m singin’ is love songs And we are we are we are, got me up all night And we are we are we are (she got me) And we are we are we are (she got me)

Well this has gotta be the longest crush ever If I ever get to fuck it’d be the longest bust ever Love is a drug, like the strongest stuff ever and Fuck it I’m on one, you feel me? She on a power trip, she got me where she want a nigga Wifin’ in the club, man my homies’ gon’ disown a nigga Like, give me 20 dolla’, dolla’ Ass stupid, how you get to college, college I’m in your city and I’m wonderin’ if you’re home now Went and found a man, but I’m hopin’ you alone now Can’t help but feelin’ like I dropped the ball, cliche I used to pop up on you at the mall, each day Now typically I kick game like Eastbay But you got a nigga freeze-framed yelling please play For Pete’s sake, homie pull it together Just fuck her one time and be through it forever, but

Would you believe me if I said I’m in love? Baby, I want you to want me Would you believe me if I said I’m in love? Baby, I want ya, yeah

Full Lyrics

J. Cole’s ‘Power Trip,’ a single from his sophomore album ‘Born Sinner,’ serves as a potent expression of vulnerability and unrequited love as it loops through the annals of hip-hop storytelling. This track, which features Grammy Award winner Miguel, walks us through a narrative labyrinth where the dreams of romance clash with reality, and longing meets obsession, over a hauntingly hypnotic beat.

But this song is much more than just a confession booth; it is a multi-dimensional exploration of affection, power dynamics, and personal growth. As we peel back the layers of the lyrics, we reveal the subtext of Cole’s journey from the eager lover to the introspective artist reflecting on his past. Each verse is a trip down memory lane, laden with the hopes and setbacks of a dreamer’s ambitious quest for love and success.

Cole begins his odyssey reminiscing about his humble beginnings, mentioning the ‘mama crib’ and the ‘Mohammed crib,’ which tell a story of financial and personal struggle. He invokes the compelling image of enduring cold winters without a heater, turning his hardships into creative fuel (‘no heater, but a nigga made heat, may I vent?’).

This transformation from the underdog in harsh conditions to a signed artist ‘bossed out’ in the nightclubs he was once ousted from is emblematic of his triumphant ascendancy. Yet, despite the fame and adulation, his fixation on a past love remains unshakable, a testament to the power of emotional bonds that even success cannot erase.

In the chorus, Cole oscillates between seeking validation (‘Would you believe me if I said I’m in love?’) and asserting control (‘Baby, I want you to want me’). It captures the essence of a ‘power trip:’ a play between wanting to be believed in his love and simultaneously desiring to dominate the object of his affection.

The repetition of ‘got me up all night’ alongside ‘we are’ refrains echo the endless cycle of longing and contemplation, offering listeners a captivating hook that’s as much a window into Cole’s psyche as it is an infectious rhythm that bonds the heart to the beat.

While the literal interpretation might confine itself to the narratives of love and desire, ‘Power Trip’ delves deeper. It’s a metaphor for the artist’s relationship with his craft and the price of fame. The love songs symbolize his devotion to music, while the sleepless nights represent the tireless grind of producing art in the relentless pursuit of success.

The recurring theme of unattainable love can be seen as Cole’s acknowledgment of the imperfect nature of ambition – to want something so badly, yet to be constantly thwarted by obstacles. This parallel paints a picture of an artist who sees his music as a lover that is as rewarding as it is demanding.

With a candor that is almost startling, Cole admits to a fixation that goes beyond a simple crush, likening love to ‘the strongest stuff ever.’ This analogy conjures the intoxicating and often destructive nature of love, situating it in the realm of an uncontrollable substance that sends one on an emotional power trip.

The self-awareness Cole demonstrates when he raps, ‘homies gon’ disown a nigga,’ speaks to the social sacrifices made in the name of love, or the relentless pursuit it inspires, highlighting a common human experience where logic succumbs to the whims of the heart.

‘My drink spilled on me, while I feel on you’ captures the essence of a moment where the intoxication of affection overrides the messiness of reality. These raw, candid expressions serve as a bridge for listeners, who can relate to the messy, unfiltered experiences of falling hard for someone and grappling with the implications.

‘I used to pop up on you at the mall, each day,’ delivers a dose of nostalgia, not just for listeners, but for Cole himself as he recalls the innocence of his past pursuit. Yet as he dwells on these memories, he also confronts the futility of some efforts in love, embodying the bittersweet essence of the human condition.

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J. Cole Drops ‘Power Trip’ Single Featuring Miguel: Listen

In anticipation of his upcoming sophomore album "Born Sinner," J. Cole has released the project's first official single "Power Trip" featuring Miguel.

By Billboard Staff

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In anticipation of his upcoming sophomore album “Born Sinner,” J. Cole has released the project’s first official single “Power Trip” featuring Miguel.

Appropriately timed for Valentine’s Day, the self-produced love anthem sees the Roc Nation rapper reflecting on a doe-eyed, teenage crush that perseveres as he enters adulthood. Cole returns to his hometown after building his name as an artist, but can’t shake his attraction to the one that got away. “Now I’m in this bitch and I’m totally bossed out / Old chicks crying ‘cause they know that they lost out / But, I’m still on you, I’m still on you / My drink spill on me / While I feel on you,” he raps.

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Spitting two verses, Cole also handles hook duties on the cut. Miguel, who won Best R&B Song for “Adorn” at the 2013 Grammy Awards, appears to sling the bridge, polishing the slow-rolling instrumental with falsetto croons.

“I’ve always wanted to use my voice to shift culture, even if just a millimeter,” explains J. Cole. “This song is one of my strongest to date and I look forward to hearing fans’ reactions.”

The Fayetteville, NC native is currently prepping the release of “Born Sinner,” which he announced in November for a Jan. 28 release. The album, now slated for release later this year, already spawned the teaser single “Miss America” that peaked at No. 34 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart.

Just yesterday, Cole released the free five-track EP “Truly Yours” as a gift to fans. On Feb. 26, he will speak at Harvard University’s Hip Hop Archive for “The Mindstate of a Winner: A Conversation with J. Cole,” where he will converse with Professors Henry Louis Gates, Jr. and Marcyliena Morgan in front of 100 students.

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