Waching daily Apr 26 2018

LETTY: On his new album, 'KOD,' J. Cole introduces kiLL edward.

What was first assumed to be a feature turned out to be J. Cole himself as his alter-ego.

Prior to 'KOD's' release, a song called "Tidal Wave - just a little reference,"

appeared on Spotify.

That when pitched up, shows it's actually Cole's vocals.

LETTY: The message behind 'KOD' seems to be that we all go through pain,

and it's up to us to "choose wisely" in how we cope.

kiLL edward seems to represent the part of Cole that hasn't always dealt with pain correctly.

LETTY: So, what's behind the moniker?

Cole's brother Zach may have provided that answer while reviewing 'KOD.'

ZACH: Our ex stepdad's name was Edward.

REVIEWER: Oh for real?

ZACH: So I dunno if that's got anything to do with it but yeah.

LETTY: Turns out it might have much to do with it.

On the album, Cole details his mother's alcohol and drug abuse as it relates to his

stepfather's infidelity, and later mentions how he'd like to kill the person

who's hurt his mother.

Cole's been open about his stepfather's missteps and the pain it's caused his family before.

On his 2013 'Truly Yours' EP, Jermaine writes somewhat of an open letter to Edward.

On his sophomore album, 'Born Sinner,' Cole jokingly ponders how he'd feel

if his ex-stepfather passed away.

LETTY: And his '2014 Forest Hills Drive' album was named after his childhood home,

which the family lost, thanks to his stepdad's transgressions.

COMBAT JACK: In an indirect sense your stepfather caused this album to happen?

J. COLE: Yeah he did.

COMBAT JACK: Let's talk about that, man.

J. COLE: About a month into college, I get a call from my mom.

So she just got the news right there that A. the mortgage payments haven't been made

and B. she knows that her relationship is over.

LETTY: Add this all up and it seems like kiLL edward is Cole's worst way to cope, personified.

I'm Letty for Genius News, bringing you meaning and the knowledge behind the music.