“Procrastination (broke)” by J. Cole

J. Cole sorta alludes to himself being a procrastinator on “Procrastination (broke)”, but that’s not really what this song is about. In fact, he does so within the context of relating to students who have to grind deep into the night in the name of completing papers on time. 

With that in mind, a simpler way of understanding this piece is as being centered on the superstar vocalist’s own challenges with meeting deadlines, in a manner of speaking.

Jermaine, being who he is, keeps it real from his perspective. As of this writing dude is worth over $50,000,000, so it isn’t like he actually has to work as hard as the rest of us. And in that regard, Cole does reminisce on his earlier days, when he was a hungrier artist and dropping hits accordingly, i.e. in the name of making ends meet. 

So now – once again keeping it real with himself and the listener – the vocalist understands that with his belly full, he will never be able to replicate that standard of output ever again.

That said, J. Cole still has obligations to meet, especially as an artist. But along the lines highlighted above, the rapper comes off as if now he’s stuck with a serious case of writer’s block. He’s no longer as inspired as in days past, and the way he sees it is, that reality is not only affecting the quality of his music but also the consistency. But conclusively, as demonstrated by the dropping of “Procrastination”, Cole remains dedicated to the cause.

Facts for “Procrastination (broke)” by J. Cole

J. Cole wrote “Procrastination (broke)” alongside its producer bvtman, who released it via his YouTube platform on January 18 of 2023.

The cover art to “Procrastination (broke)” features a text message that J. Cole sent to bvtman. In the message, the rapper expresses his gratitude to the producer while detailing his inspiration behind the track.