The second verse is similar to the first in that it also gradually introduces the reverse keys, but the bass is consistent throughout, and the electronic keyboard is no longer present. In continuation, the instrumentation of the second verse consists of all introduced non vocal elements of the song so far, excluding the electronic keyboard from the verse, in order to give the chorus a full feeling that clearly establishes it as the song’s focal point. Authenticity becomes a clear primary theme during the first chorus, with anxiously connoted adlibs appearing that are effective in helping to emphasize the disillusionment of the song, even when turned down in the mix, and in addition, Cole includes a melodic vocal track that resembles pleading with its repetitive nature. As the chorus enters, clear distinctions from the version within the intro are heard: the vocals are more desperate sounding, created by the layering of a higher pitched vocal track over a lower pitched vocal track. All changes are gradual, to ensure that the vocals are always supported and not distracted away from during the verse.

After the listener experiences a period to adapt to the pace of Cole’s lyrics and rhythm, the reverse keys sample reenters, with the bassline following a few measures later. Cole’s thorough lyrical narrative, the verse’s instrumentation is initially simplified to only a continuation of the intro’s percussion beat and an electronic keyboard. In order to properly display the full extent of J.

A section of the chorus vocals then enters, but in a much calmer tone than what is heard in later choruses, which allows the intro to function as a hint for the themes of nostalgia and disillusionment that are amplified throughout the song. The song’s intro consists of a percussion beat that includes eighth note hi-hat hits with a simple kick and snare, what sounds like a reversed keys sample, a stylistic yet elementary bassline, and a faint sample of birds chirping. The song was recorded by Juro “Mez” Davis at The Sheltuh, Dreamville, NC, and mixed also by Davis at The Sheltuh in collaboration with Beatriz Artola and Gosha Usov of Electric Lady Studios in New York. Additional drums were created by producer Elite and Rocnation’s Deputy.

Jermaine Cole himself is responsible for the songwriting, production, vocal performance, and live bass of the song.

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