Exclusive | I went to three J Cole concerts in five days. Here are my thoughts

J Cole is midway through his highly-anticipated “The Fall Off” world tour where he is set to play 50 datesacross 15 countries.When he announced the outing I knew I’d be in attendance – but what I didn’t know was that I’d wind up going three times.Yes, I went to see J.

Cole on his “The Fall Off” tour three times in five days.Now, let me explain.The energy was palpable as 20,000 eager fans filled seats at Barclays Center on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, Aug.

1 – shows one and two of his sold out five night run in New York City.In interviews leading up to this tour the rap legend had declared this long-awaited album his last and, much to the disappointment of Cole fans worldwide, hinting at retirement.

So we knew we were about to witness history.All I’ll say is, both casual and diehard J.Cole fans alike all left that venue the same way – sweaty, hoarse, and inspired.On July 31, the opening set included performances from several Dreamville artists.

The highlight cametoward the end when Lute delivered his verse from “Down Bad,” before Bas wrapped things up with his hit record “Tribe,” which was the perfect appetizer for what we were about to experience.At precisely 9:14, the lights went down and the crowd lights up.It’s time.Ever the man of the people, J.

Cole began the show sitting in the audience among screaming fans.The spotlight reveals the headliner in his signature hoodie and shorts as he sings the first track from disc two of his double-feature album “39 Intro.”“A spaceship lands on mars… halfway to the stars… halfway to the stars.”His words fill the arena feeling almost as if they were the Dreamville national anthem.From the stands, Cole makes his way through a crowd of frenzied fans shaking hands and signing autographs as a spotlight follows him.

Just before the song concludes he screams at the top of his lungs, “NEW YORK CITY!!!!!!” and we go rabid.At that moment bright red lights blare through the arena an...