J. Cole has finally achieved a significant milestone in his illustrious music career. The rapper’s 2019 track Middle Child has earned a diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying over 10 million units sold in the United States.
The remarkable achievement marks Cole’s first-ever diamond plaque, highlighting his enduring impact on hip-hop.
Despite its immense success, “Middle Child” never reached the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100. It debuted at No. 26 and peaked at No. 4 a week later. Nonetheless, the song has proven to be one of Cole’s most enduring and beloved tracks, resonating deeply with fans and solidifying his place in the annals of hip-hop history.
Interestingly, there were previous reports that Cole’s 2014 hit No Role Modelz had also surpassed the 10 million unit mark. However, the RIAA never officially certified it a diamond. With “Middle Child” officially reaching this prestigious status, J. Cole joins an elite group of hip-hop stars who have achieved diamond certification.
Eminem leads the way among rappers with six diamond plaques, including three for albums and three for singles. Other notable artists with multiple diamond records include Drake, 2Pac, Kanye West, Cardi B, and JAY-Z. Among these, JAY-Z recently earned his third diamond certification for “Empire State of Mind.” Post Malone holds the record for the most diamond singles with nine in the broader music landscape, followed by Rihanna and The Weeknd with seven each.
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J. Cole’s entry into the diamond club also places him ahead of his “Big Three” rival, Kendrick Lamar, despite his previous expression of feelings of inferiority to both Lamar and Drake in his 2021 track “Heaven’s EP.”
