Dreamville Day 2: Surprise appearances, and a nod to J. Cole's alma mater Terry Sanford
Day two of J. Cole's Dreamville Festival — which featured a surprise appearance by Lil Wayne and a nod to J. Cole's alma mater Terry Sanford High School from Drake — was nothing short of amazing for many fans. The anticipation was so high to see co-headliners Drake and J. Cole that many attendees claimed their viewing space upon entry to Raleigh's Dorothea Dix Park on Sunday afternoon.
The second day was packed with surprise appearances. Charlotte native Reuben Vincent kicked off the day with an electric performance. During the middle of his performance, he was joined on stage by his Jamla/Rocnation labelmate, Snow Hill native Rhapsody. Vincent and Rhapsody are signed to 9th Wonder, a Grammy award-winning producer from Winston Salem.
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As Vincent’s set came to an end, there was a loud voice coming from the Rise stage. That voice was none other than St. Louis’ own Jordan Ward. For Ward, the Dreamville festival was a full-circle moment. Though he is influenced by Nelly and Chingy, Ward said J. Cole’s music fueled his growth as a human and artist. The 28-year-old paid homage to the state by wearing a vintage University of North Carolina hoodie. One of Ward's biggest songs, "CHERIMOYA," is an ode to his favorite rare fruit.
After Ward, Dreamville artist Cozz took the stage and, before performing "Addicted," boldly informed the crowd that he was nervous because this was one of his first performances free of alcohol. Then, the California Dreamer was joined onstage by Reason to discuss their plot to rob J. Cole on the song “LamboTruck.”
Cozz credited the growth of Dreamville Festival to their dedicated fans. One fan held up a sign that said “I traveled 3,000 miles to get on stage." Unfortunately, he was not successful. But, he didn’t come that far for no reason because he was in the perfect place to interact with Waka Flocka Flame.
Crowd loves Waka Flaka Flame
In the Dreamers Den backstage, people, including rapper Trinidad James, gathered around the monitor to witness Waka's set. Waka is a testament to growth. He was an early signee to GucciMane’s 1017 Bricksquad imprint before becoming the owner of Bricksquad Monopoly. He has embraced his role as an original in the game and brought other artists to join him during his set for songs like “Grove Street Party” and “Round Of Applause.” Waka stopped his set to be joined by rap trio Travis Porter. The crowd went crazy, partly because Waka jumped off the stage and went out into the crowd.
The audience was left confused when Glorilla did not show up for her scheduled set time. However, they did not waiver. Attendees were determined not to lose their spot for the Drake/Cole set. Some fans were so dedicated that they only used the bathroom once throughout the entire day. Those fans were the ones lucky enough to witness crews build out Summer Walker’s elaborate set, which resembled every little girl’s dream bedroom. Walker wasjoined on stage by Dreamville Festival veteran 6lack before closing out.
J. Cole takes the stage
Some attendees held fast while others made their way down to the Rise stage for African superstar Burna Boy. At the conclusion, attendees rapidly made their way down to the Shine stage to witness two of thebest-known rappers of their generation. Cole opened up his set with “Who Dat” while wearing a Rolex given to him by Drake.
During his set, Cole said, “it’s time,” and the crowd went crazy because they knew it was time to see "Champagne Papi" in action. Drake came on stage wearing a powder blue baseball jersey with a bulldog on the front to show respect to Cole’s alma mater, Terry Sanford High School.
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Drake said Cole asked him to perform a year ago, so he brought “the pack.” “The pack” featured guest appearances by Glorilla (who was originally scheduled to perform earlier), Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, and rap icon Lil Wayne. Drake closed out his set by giving Cole his respect in the form of a rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” before exiting the stage. Cole closed the festival by performing “No Role Models” before fireworks lit up the night sky.
Though the night was cold, fans were warm from the excitement after witnessing a moment in music history. Cole proved that Dreamville Festival will keep growing and providing opportunities. Our greatest gift is what we give to others. One time for Cole and every activist getting active. Peace. See you at the next Dreamville.
Rakeem “Keem” Jones is a community advocate and father of three from the Shaw Road/Bonnie Doone area of Fayetteville. He can be reached at keemj45@gmail.com.