Conway The Machine has long since gotten his respect as one of the best rappers in the game, but with the release of a new J. Cole clip, he’s coming for a different kind of credit — as a journalist.
The Griselda rapper took to Instagram on Monday (April 1) to share a short segment from Cole’s Might Delete Later, Vol. 2 vlog, released last month.
In the undated clip, Cole is seen talking to Conway about the process of learning to write hit songs after receiving an ultimatum from JAY-Z that his debut album Cole World: The Sideline Story would sit on the shelf until, as Cole remembers Hov saying, “you’ve got some fucking hits.”
“I had to trial and error for a year and a half, two years,” Cole says. “‘Work Out,’ I squeezed that shit out last minute. That was an unnatural space for me. Even if you listen to it, I’m like, I can’t even hear that shit back because I’m trying.
“But through all my trying over the years, that turned into, I grew some superpowers. So then by the time [2014] Forest Hills Drive came by, I was smacking them bitches out effortlessly.”
In his Instagram post, Conway recalled how that convo came to be, and demanded respect for asking the questions that got J. Cole started on his monologue.
He wrote: “A few things. 1. [I don’t even know] who filmed this or even had the camera out recording because I don’t even do that when I pull up on the homies, I respect the vibe and privacy and I’m not there for all that, I’m there to show support and love to artists I fuck with, and get some game and some jewels…
“2. Give me my journalism credit for this video!!! and my flowers for my ability to ask such immaculate questions like THIS and knowing how to get these artists to give these profound answers, such as this one! ”
Conway continued, laughingly shouting out Hip Hop journalism OG and Rap Radar Podcast co-host Elliott Wilson.
“[crying face emoji] ayo @elliottwilson I’m nice B! I think I should do a show [crying face emojis],” he joked.
Conway, when not claiming credit for savvy questioning, has been doing his part to stay away from controversy lately.
In February, he clarified a few things after his name was mentioned on a Benzino song in an effort to slight Eminem. Zino taunted Em that “Con’ left ya label” on “Rap Elvis.”
Taking to Instagram, the Buffalo native clarified that he has nothing but love for Em, even thought he’s no longer on Shady Records.
“Peace! I just wanted to speak on a few things,” he began. “I heard the @benzinoislegendary_ joint and I just need to clear this up for everybody. 1. I didn’t LEAVE shady records. Also I never wanted to leave the label, My contracts were simply fulfilled.”
He continued: “2. And most importantly, I FUCK WIT @eminem [Shady Records co-founder and Eminem manager Paul] @rosenberg [Shady Records EVP of A&R] @mikaelheron @shadyrecords @50cent And I could never feel any Ill feelings towards Em and them n-ggas.
“They gave some 35 year old street n-ggas from Buffalo that’s been shot in the head and did jail sentences a chance and a opportunity to make it out the hood and take care of my family.
“So I’m forever thankful for that. So with that bein said, if you’re havin feelings or whatever towards bruh, leave me out of it please, cause I’m always gonna ride wit big bro. Love.”
