Is J. Cole Retiring? Dreamville Fest Announces Its Final Year, Sparks Retirement Speculation
3 min read
Prince Williams/FilmMagic
The iconic Dreamville Festival, founded by rapper J. Cole and his Dreamville record label, is preparing to host its final iteration in April 2025. J. Cole’s manager and Dreamville Records president, Ibrahim Hamad, confirmed the news on December 10, stirring emotional reactions from fans worldwide. This announcement has also sparked speculation about J. Cole’s possible retirement, as many wonder what the future holds for the celebrated artist and his endeavors.
The End of an Era
Since its debut in 2019, the Dreamville Festival has become a cultural cornerstone in Raleigh, North Carolina, drawing music enthusiasts from across the globe. The two-day event, known for its vibrant atmosphere and star-studded performances, has featured music heavyweights like Drake, Usher, Burna Boy, and J. Cole himself, alongside appearances by the entire Dreamville roster.
Dreamville announces the 2025 'Dreamville Fest' will be the LAST one 💔
— NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) December 10, 2024
“April 5th & 6th will be the Fifth & Final Dreamville Fest. We can't thank y'all enough for all the memories we've shared.” pic.twitter.com/SPjkS8BZ7Q
On social media, Hamad expressed deep gratitude to the fans and team members who contributed to the festival’s success over the years.
“Thank you, North Carolina,” Hamad wrote in a heartfelt tweet. “Thank you to everyone who’s travelled from all over the last 4 years to enjoy our little family reunion… April 5th & 6th will be the Fifth & Final Dreamville Fest. We can’t thank y’all enough for all the memories we’ve shared.”
In a follow-up tweet, he elaborated on the challenges and rewards of organizing the event, emphasizing the hard work of the festival’s team. “Y’all don’t know how hard and how much work it takes to bring y’all this event, but just know y’all make it more than worth it every year… We gon celebrate this one. Love.”
So Cole really retiring is what y’all saying? Can we get the line up by January then? 👀
— baby shower meatballs (@Shellzwashere) December 10, 2024
Fan Reactions and Retirement Rumors
The announcement has left fans both heartbroken and reflective, with many speculating that J. Cole might be preparing to retire. Social media was abuzz with reactions like:
“Cole sounds like he’s retiring 😳😳😳.”
“Wow J. Cole is actually retiring I think.”
“I’ve been to all the Dreamville Festivals. I’ll be at this one as well. Can’t wait!”
Some questioned the decision to end the festival entirely, suggesting it could continue to spotlight Dreamville artists even without J. Cole at the helm.
Cole sounds like he’s retiring 😳😳😳
— LeBronto (@LeT0r0nt0) December 10, 2024
Retirement soon?!
— Rap301 (@Rap301_) December 10, 2024
Though the festival’s conclusion marks the end of an era, fans can expect the 2025 event to go out on a high note. Hamad’s words indicate that this final celebration will honor the legacy of Dreamville Fest, offering attendees unforgettable performances and a chance to reflect on its profound cultural impact.
As the countdown begins, the question of whether J. Cole’s farewell to the festival signals his broader exit from music remains unanswered. For now, all eyes are on April 2025, when the Dreamville family will gather one last time to celebrate the journey they’ve shared.
Holy shit… last one?! I gotta be there👀🔥
— Rap301 (@Rap301_) December 10, 2024
This is a loss for hiphop pic.twitter.com/kyLiSjy4tI
— God Ghost Writer 👁🗨 (@kingchudy) December 10, 2024
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
