Meaning of Atlantic City Freestyle by J. Cole

In J. Cole's "Atlantic City Freestyle," the overall theme centers around the artist's rise to success and his unwavering self-confidence. The song showcases his raw lyrical talent while also exploring various themes that contribute to the powerful message of the track.One standout lyric that helps develop the overarching theme is "No album to my name and I’m already hot, you could say I’m preheated." This line reflects the artist's belief in his talent and his ability to make an impact in the music industry without conforming to typical norms. It conveys the notion that success can be achieved through raw talent and dedication, rather than solely relying on popularity or commercial appeal.Another important lyric in the song is "Illest nigga in the game, bitch, and you can retweet it." This line highlights the artist's confidence and self-assuredness. It explores the theme of self-validation and the power of believing in oneself, regardless of whether others recognize or acknowledge one's greatness. It also touches upon the idea that social media can be used as a platform for self-expression and promotion.The lyric "Getting high as fuck and I don't even be weeded, no point drinking, I can't even be faded" introduces the theme of substance use and its role in the artist's creative process. Rather than relying on external substances to enhance his creativity or alter his state of mind, J. Cole asserts that he can tap into his natural talent and creativity without any external influences. This theme challenges societal expectations and norms surrounding substance use within the music industry, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-reliance.One unexpected theme that emerges from the song is the relationship between success and haters. The line "Hatred is flattery, glad to be hated" suggests that having haters is a sign of success and accomplishment. This theme delves into the idea that criticism and negativity can fuel one's drive and motivation to achieve greatness. It encourages individuals to embrace criticism as a means to grow and prove their worth, rather than allowing it to deter them from their goals.Finally, the lyric "Carolina niggas just glad that he made it, my money was running late, now it’s happy belated" highlights the artist's pride in his hometown and his journey from financial struggles to success. This theme explores the concept of overcoming adversity and the satisfaction of proving doubters wrong. It portrays a narrative of triumph and the ability to persevere through difficult circumstances.Overall, "Atlantic City Freestyle" goes beyond the surface level of a typical song, delving into various profound themes that reflect J. Cole's journey to success. From self-confidence to substance use, from the relationship between success and criticism to overcoming adversity, the song touches upon these themes to create an empowering and thought-provoking message. J. Cole's raw talent and powerful lyricism shine through, making this track a standout in his discography.