J. Cole closes 2024 with nostalgia, releasing his classic mixtape The Warm Up on streaming platforms for the first time on Friday, November 22. Originally released in June 2009, the 22-track mixtape was pivotal in Cole’s career, catching Jay-Z’s attention and leading to his Roc Nation deal.
The project features standout tracks like “Lights Please,” “Dreams,” and the Kanye West-produced “Just to Get By.” Songs like “Lights Please” gained so much traction they were later included on Cole’s debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story (2011).
Dreamville co-founder Ibrahim “Ib” Hamad expressed gratitude, writing on X: “Took us 15 years, but I’m so happy we’re able to get this up. This project is very special to me; it put Cole in the game, and we haven’t looked back since.”
The release coincides with Episode 3 of Cole’s Inevitable audio series, which explores his journey to fame, including The Warm Up’s rollout and his deal with Jay-Z. The series, available for $10, includes two-hour episodes released weekly, culminating with a look at 2014 Forest Hills Drive.
Cole shared his hopes for the series, writing: “If you’ve ever supported me, I hope this gives you perspective. If you’re chasing a dream, I hope it inspires you to push through and go for it, even in tough times.”
