In an era of fast-shifting alliances and public apologies, JID remains firmly rooted. As debates swirl over whether J. Cole owes Kendrick Lamar an apology for past diss tracks, the Atlanta-born rapper pushed back on that notion, pointing instead to the strength of Cole’s leadership and the lasting impact he’s had on his Dreamville roster.
Appearing on a recent episode of The Joe Budden Podcast, JID touched on his new album, God Does Like Ugly, while also weighing in on Dreamville’s evolution. The label’s decision to part ways with Universal Music Group marked a turning point—one Bas alluded to in a separate conversation with journalist Elliott Wilson. JID confirmed it, emphasizing that revenue from the distribution deal had been evenly split among artists, a rare gesture in an industry often accused of shortchanging talent.
JID defends Cole, highlighting Dreamville’s loyalty over profit
“They didn’t publicize it, but Dreamville sold Dreamville,” he revealed. That kind of transparency, JID suggested, was only possible because of the culture Cole cultivated. “Cole looked out for everyone involved with Dreamville. That’s one of the most admirable aspects of hip-hop. That’s a rarity.” At Dreamville, the relationships stretch beyond music—they’re about trust, sustainability, and shared success.
JID’s defense of Cole came as chatter mounted about the need for a public olive branch toward Kendrick. He didn’t hesitate to redirect the conversation. “If we want to address the real issues in the industry, if we’re talking about an apology, then we should apologize 30 more times. That is the greatest person on Earth,” he said. “I have seen countless individuals prioritize profits over people; what Cole does is extraordinary.”
With God Does Like Ugly continuing to build momentum, JID’s stance adds weight to a broader narrative about loyalty and leadership in hip-hop. His words reflect not just admiration for a label head but an affirmation of the kind of creative ecosystem many artists only dream of: one where vision, fairness, and family remain front and center.
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