J. Cole is stirring up nostalgia for his dedicated fanbase as we approach 2024. Following the digital streaming release of The Come Up, the Dreamville leader has made his iconic The Warm Up mixtape available on streaming platforms for the first time ever on Friday, November 22. This move not only highlights Cole’s evolution as an artist but also allows a new generation of listeners to experience this pivotal work in his discography.

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The release of The Warm Up was pivotal in shaping J. Cole’s career, effectively placing him on the radar of music mogul Jay-Z and leading to his signing with Roc Nation. First launched in June 2009, the mixtape now boasts an impressive collection of 22 tracks in its streaming debut. This project not only showcases Cole’s lyrical prowess but also reflects the raw passion that captivated his audience and set the stage for his future successes in the music industry.

Among the standout tracks on this groundbreaking mixtape are the hits produced by Kanye West, including “Just to Get By,” “Dreams,” and “Lights Please.” These tracks gained substantial traction and were influential enough to be featured on Jermaine’s debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story, released in 2011. Each song not only highlights Cole’s artistic evolution but also solidifies his status as a leading voice in hip-hop music, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike.

“The Warm Up is now available on all streaming platforms,” stated Cole’s manager, Ibrahim “Ib” Hamad, on X. “It took us 15 years to achieve this, and I’m thrilled we could finally share it. This mixtape holds immense significance for me; it was the project that truly launched Cole’s career, and since then, we’ve never looked back. I am forever grateful for this work, as it has changed lives in profound ways.” His heartfelt words emphasize the mixtape’s lasting impact on both Cole’s journey and the wider hip-hop community.

The release of The Warm Up also coincided with the launch of the third episode of Cole’s Inevitable audio series. This episode delves into his journey to fame, specifically focusing on the mixtape’s rollout and the pivotal moment when he secured his deal with Jay-Z. Cole’s reflections on this period provide fans with rare insights into the challenges and triumphs that shaped his career path, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in his story.

For those eager to dive deeper into Cole’s journey, fans can purchase access to the complete series for just $10. Each two-hour episode is released every few days to a week, culminating in a finale that will cover the impactful period surrounding 2014 Forest Hills Drive. This series promises to be an invaluable resource for fans seeking to understand the evolution of J. Cole as an artist and a person.

“If you’ve supported me at any point in my journey, I hope this series will provide you with deeper insights and help fill in the gaps,” Cole shared while announcing the series. “If you have dreams you aspire to achieve, regardless of the field, I hope this will empower you, instilling confidence and encouragement to pursue your aspirations, even in the face of fear.” His words resonate with fans and aspiring artists alike, serving as a motivational reminder of the importance of perseverance.

Stream the mixtape below.