No Role Modelz

J. Cole dives deep into the struggles of finding true love and the impact of fame on relationships. He paints a picture of his past, the absence of mentors, and how that shapes his views today. The song is a mix of nostalgia, self-reflection, and social commentary, pointing out the hollowness of many modern relationships while yearning for something real and meaningful.

Verse 1

First things first: Rest In Peace Uncle Phil, for real
You the only father that I ever knew
I get my bitch pregnant, I'mma be a better you
Prophecies that I made way back in the Ville, fulfilled
Listen even back when we was broke my team ill
Martin Luther King would have been on Dreamville
Talk to a nigga...

In this verse, J. Cole pays tribute to Uncle Phil, a father figure from "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." He connects Uncle Phil’s guidance to his own life, expressing a desire to break the cycle of absent fatherhood. He also highlights his origins in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and suggests that even historical figures like Martin Luther King would resonate with his team’s struggles and ambitions. This sets the tone for his exploration of role models and the influences that shape him.

Chorus

One time for my LA sisters
One time for my LA hoes
Lame niggas can't tell the difference
One time for a nigga who know

The chorus serves as a shout-out to women from LA, acknowledging their uniqueness while also hinting at the superficiality in how some men view them. J. Cole seems to celebrate those who understand the difference between real connections and shallow encounters, reinforcing the theme of discernment in relationships.

Verse 2

Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved
Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved
Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved
Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved

This verse repeats the catchy line about not saving women who aren’t interested in being saved. It suggests a kind of resignation, a recognition that some people are comfortable in their chaos. J. Cole seems to reflect on how many women are aware of their own independence but also hints at the emptiness of such choices. It’s a critique of both the women and the men who get caught up in these dynamics.

Chorus

Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved
Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved
Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved
Don't save her
She don't wanna be saved

Repeating the chorus emphasizes its importance. It drives home the point that trying to change someone who doesn’t want to change is futile. J. Cole is warning listeners to recognize when someone is content in their current state, which can be both empowering and sad.

Bridge

There's an old saying in Tennessee
I know it's in Texas, probably in Tennessee
That says, fool me once
Shame on
Shame on you.
Fool me
You can't get fooled again

In the bridge, J. Cole quotes a famous saying about learning from mistakes. He’s highlighting the importance of wisdom gained through experience. The message is about accountability and not letting others take advantage of you. This reflects his growth and desire to avoid repeating past errors in relationships.

Verse 3

My only regret was too young for Lisa Bonet
My only regret was too young for Nia Long
Now all I'm left with is hoes from reality shows
Hand her a script the bitch probably couldn't read along
My only regret was too young for Sade Adu
My only regret could never take Aaliyah home
Now all I'm left with is hoes up in Greystone
With the stale face cause they know it's they song

Here, J. Cole reflects on his missed opportunities with iconic women from his youth. He contrasts them with the shallow reality stars he finds himself surrounded by now. This verse shows his longing for a deeper connection, feeling let down by the current state of relationships in his life. It’s a mix of nostalgia and disappointment, emphasizing how fame can attract the wrong kind of attention.

Chorus

She shallow, but the pussy deep (she shallow, she shallow)
She shallow, but the pussy deep (she shallow, she shallow)
She shallow, but the pussy deep (she shallow, she shallow)
She shallow, but the pussy deep (she shallow, she shallow)

In this chorus, J. Cole comments on the contradiction he sees in some women. While they may appear shallow or superficial, there’s a depth to their experiences or relationships that might not be visible at first glance. It suggests that there’s more to people than meets the eye, but it also reflects a kind of frustration with the surface-level interactions he encounters.

Closing Thoughts

"No Role Modelz" is a candid look at J. Cole’s thoughts on love, fame, and the search for authenticity in a world filled with distractions. He reflects on his upbringing and the role models, or lack thereof, in his life. The song combines humor, sadness, and a desire for something real, making it relatable to anyone who's felt lost in the chaos of modern relationships.