What Inspired J.Cole’s Alter Ego, kiLL edward On ‘KOD’?

When J. Cole unveiled the tracklist for his new album ‘KOD,’ it appeared to include a pair of features by an artist named kiLL edward. However, pitching up the vocals on the kiLL edward track “Tidal Wave (just a little reference)” quickly revealed the voice actually belonged to J. Cole himself. Inspired by the North Carolina rapper’s stepfather, the alter ego seems to represent the side of him which hasn’t dealt with pain from his upbringing.