A$AP Rocky has teamed up with J. Cole for a highly anticipated new single titled “Ruby Rosary,” produced by The Alchemist. Released on September 6, 2024, the track serves as a taste of Rocky’s upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb, and showcases the unique styles of both artists.
A unique collaboration
“Ruby Rosary” marks just the second collaboration between A$AP Rocky and J. Cole, with their first being the 2013 remix of “TKO (Black Friday).” The new single features a blend of Rocky’s laid-back verses and J. Cole’s more intense, rapid-fire delivery.
The Alchemist’s production creates an ethereal atmosphere, highlighted by piano melodies and a watery drum pattern that complements the lyrical themes of struggle and loyalty.
Read more: Rihanna and ASAP Rocky Unveil First Glimpse of Their Newborn, Riot Rose
Lyrical content and speculation
Fans have quickly dissected the lyrics of “Ruby Rosary,” especially in light of the ongoing tensions between A$AP Rocky and Drake. Rocky’s verse includes lines that many believe are directed at Drake, particularly referencing past diss tracks. He raps:
You a dead man walking, like you barely alive / Cut everything but the family ties / Cut the st, cut the lies, word to the wise / Who in your top five? Haha (Fk your top five) / I don’t get fresh to death, b**h, I’m buried alive.
These lines have sparked speculation about a possible response to Drake’s earlier jabs in songs like “Push Ups” and “Family Matters.” However, Rocky has previously downplayed the beef, stating in a Billboard interview,
I ain’t in the middle of that st. That’s not how I retaliate right now. I got bigger fish to fry than some p*y boys.
J. Cole’s reflective verse
J. Cole’s contribution to “Ruby Rosary” is more introspective, as he grapples with themes of relevance and the passage of time in the rap game. He reflects on the uncertainty of his career, rapping:
I’m startin’ to think that judgement day they talkin’ ‘bout’s comin’ around / Show money they throw up is startin’ to slow up, I bet that they humblin’ now.
Cole’s verse adds depth to the track, contrasting Rocky’s braggadocio with a sense of vulnerability.
Public reception
The release of “Ruby Rosary” has generated significant buzz on social media, with fans praising the chemistry between A$AP Rocky and J. Cole. The track debuted inside the Top 5 of the Genius Top Songs chart, indicating a strong reception from listeners. As anticipation builds for Don’t Be Dumb, fans are eager to see how this collaboration fits into the larger narrative of Rocky’s upcoming album.
Conclusion
“Ruby Rosary” is a standout collaboration that highlights the talents of both A$AP Rocky and J. Cole. With its captivating production and thought-provoking lyrics, the track sets the stage for Rocky’s forthcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb. As fans await more music, the dynamic between these two artists continues to evolve, promising an exciting future in hip-hop.
Listen to the full song below
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