J. Cole Samples Jah Cure and T.O.K Classics on The Fall-Off Highlight “Only You”

American rapper J. Cole taps Burna Boy’s interpolation of Jah Cure’s 2004 classic “Longing For,” while opening “Only You” with a sample of T.O.K’s “Footprints,” both drawn from Don Corleon’s iconic Drop Leaf riddim, featured on his latest album

L-R: Don Corleon, J Cole, Jah Cure

American rapper J. Cole has released his seventh studio album, The Fall-Off, in full, with “Only You” emerging as one of the standout moments on the project’s second disc.

Appearing near the album’s closing stretch, “Only You” leans into a pop-leaning sensibility while remaining rooted in hip-hop craftsmanship.

The track is built around the iconic Drop Leaf riddim, produced by Jamaican hitmaker Donovan Bennett, more popularly known as Don Corleon, who is credited on the song.

The track is built around the iconic Drop Leaf riddim, produced by Jamaican hitmaker Donovan Bennett, more popularly known as Don Corleon, who is credited on the song. It prominently samples T.O.K’s 2004 classic “Footprints,” with vocals from Bay-C and Alex subtly woven into the background, before later incorporating a soulful interpolation of Jah Cure’s timeless “Longing For”, the same riddim-based track later popularised globally by Afrobeats giant Burna Boy.

Anchored by strong production and a sticky, melodic hook, the song showcases Cole’s ear for crossover songwriting without sacrificing lyrical sharpness. His measured delivery glides over the familiar Caribbean foundation, bridging eras and regions in a way that feels both respectful and fresh.

The Drop Leaf riddim itself stands as one of Jamaican music’s most enduring productions, further cementing Don Corleon’s legacy as one of the genre’s most influential producers, whose work continues to resonate globally, even decades later.