10-12 the fall-off: j. cole’s quietest announcement, loudest statement
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
14-17 cool kids collab: wise mind pop-up
Interview with Jose Kercado Jr., CEO of Wise Mind Movement
Christina Miles, Art Director + Admin Lead
20-21 no rollout, all bars: j. cole’s birthday blizzard freestyles
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
22-25 the return of the two six cypher
Interview with Mark Mayr, CEO & Founder of Bonfire Creative
Christina Miles, Art Director + Admin Lead
26-27 2-6 district vol. 1 mixtape
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
28-29 "stitched in my skin"
Andre Sansbury Jr., CEO of Lost Voices Empire
30-32 "the real is back. the ville is back": new j. cole mural in downtown fayetteville
Interview with Malkolm Herring, Tattoo Artist + Muralist "Mook The Hartist"
34-37 from two six to the world: building brim world one stitch at a time
Interview with Maurice Curry, Founder and CEO of Brim World
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
38-41 inside the sheltuh: fayetteville’s next dynasty
Interview with Nervous Reck, Owner of The Sheltuh Record Label
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
42-46 legacy in real ville time: j. cole’s the fall-off isn’t the end
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
48 documentary "from 2-6 with love"
Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief
49-51 2-6 day in fay Rakeem “Keem” Jones, Founder of Keem Jones Content Collection
52 fayncmag credits + thanks
YEAR OF THE TWO SIX: A LETTER TO 2026
Deeper into art that tells the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Deeper into music that feels like memory, healing, and lived experience. Deeper into fashion, film, faith, and expression that reflects where culture truly is, not just where it’s loudest.
The YEAR OF THE TWO SIX is about depth over noise. Substance over spectacle. It’s about honoring the roots while still pushing forward.
In this year, FAYNC Magazine commits to creating work that resonates, not just performs. We’re slowing down enough to get the story right. We’re building platforms that feel safe, bold, and necessary. In the YEAR OF THE TWO SIX, FAYNC exists as both a mirror and a messenger, reflecting culture while also shaping it.
Our commitment remains clear:
• Elevating overlooked and underrepresented voices
• Creating space for meaningful, layered storytelling
• Curating experiences, not just content
• Remaining fearless in our creative direction
• Moving with integrity, faith, and intention in everything we release
To the artists, writers, photographers, filmmakers, DJs, businesses, brands, designers, creatives and visionaries who continue to trust FAYNC Magazine with your work, thank you for real.
In the YEAR OF THE TWO SIX, your creativity is the heartbeat of this magazine. You don’t just contribute, you help shape the future we’re building.
To our readers and supporters, you don’t simply consume FAYNC Magazine, you move with us. You grow with us. You believe with us. Especially in the YEAR OF THE TWO SIX, your support allows us to dream bigger, push further, and remain rooted in purpose even as culture shifts.
The Year Of The Two Six isn’t about doing more for the sake of it. It’s about doing what matters, with clarity, conviction, and care. It’s about legacy over metrics. Depth over speed. Meaning over moments.
Here’s to intentional creativity in the YEAR OF THE TWO SIX. Here’s to community that feels like family. Here’s to work that lingers and stories that leave a mark.
Welcome to the YEAR OF THE TWO SIX
With vision and gratitude,
Zairis T. Miles Founder + Editor In Chief FAYNC Magazine
The YeAR OF The TWO SIX
FAYNC MAGAZINE IS ALL ABOUT COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
More than a magazine, FAYNC MAG is a revolutionary media platform that uplifts the community change-makers within Fayetteville NC and beyond through the publishing of immersive and empowering multi-modal content.
MISSION
To revolutionize traditional media platforms by providing a platform for the voices in our community that have yet to be heard. We strive to highlight positive, community-focused initiatives, organizations, businesses, and creatives in Fayetteville and North Carolina. We aim to create engaging and immersive content that integrates art, music, and culture to inform, educate, inspire, and empower our subscribers and followers to become community change-makers in Fayetteville, NC.
VISION
To lead the way in creating and sharing innovative, cutting-edge content that sheds light on the history and evolution of Fayetteville and North Carolina. We aim to capture and reveal authentic narratives from our community and become the unifying entity for community-driven content through skillful and accurate articles, social posts, and storytelling. We envision a future where Fayetteville is known regionally and nationally for its continuously growing and evolving community of change-makers, with our media platform serving as the hub for this positive movement.
HISTORY
FAYNC Magazine was founded September 9, 2020 by Zairis T. Miles.
CONTACT
FAYNC Magazine
fayncmag@gmail.com fayncmagazine.com
102 Person St. D
Fayetteville, North Carolina
"2-6" is a popular nickname for Fayetteville, North Carolina.
The term primarily originates from Cumberland County being the 26th county in North Carolina alphabetically, although it is also associated with local military culture (2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry) and, historically, the area's county jail code.
THE FALL - OFF: J. COLE’S QUIETEST ANNOUNCEMENT, LOUDEST STATEMENT
Article by Zairis T Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief FAYNC Magazine
J. Cole officially announced his final studio album, The Fall-Off, on January 14th and he didn’t arrive quietly.
The announcement came paired with a brand-new track titled “Disc 2 – Track 2” (produced by DZL), a release that felt less like a traditional single and more like a thesis statement. The title alone sparked conversation, hinting that The Fall-Off may arrive as a double album, while the music itself leaned into reflection, restraint, and intention—classic Cole, but sharper.
Rather than chasing a moment, Cole chose to set a tone.
In a heartfelt message shared alongside the release, Cole opened up about the decade-long journey behind the project, describing The Fall-Off as a personal mission rather than just another album in his catalog.
Photograph by David Peters @ david peters
“For the past 10 years, this album has been handcrafted with one intention: to challenge myself to create my best work. To do on my last what I was unable to do on my first."
–j. cole
That statement alone reframes everything. The Fall-Off isn’t about charts, trends, or proving relevance—it’s about completion.
It’s about closing a chapter the right way, with honesty and excellence, revisiting the hunger of his debut while carrying the wisdom earned over years of growth, criticism, success, and self-reflection.
“Disc 2 – Track 2” plays like a rewind through Cole’s journey, narrated in reverse, peeling back layers of fame, fatherhood, insecurity, ambition, and legacy. It feels intentional, almost cinematic, as if Cole is inviting listeners to sit with the process rather than rush toward the payoff. There’s a quiet confidence in the way he lets the record breathe, trusting that the audience will catch the weight of what’s being said.
A full-circle moment from one of hip-hop’s most intentional voices,
The Fall-Off feels less like an ending and more like a final statement—carefully crafted, deeply personal, and rooted in purpose. If this truly is Cole’s last album, he’s making it clear: he’s leaving nothing unsaid.
The Fall-Off is officially on the way. And if this announcement is any indication of what’s ahead, one thing is certain—it’s definitely THE YEAR OF THE TWO SIX.
WATCH DISC 2 - TRACK 2
A Deeper Look at The Fall-off Album Cover
J. Cole didn’t reveal The Fall-Off—he unfolded it.
The album cover avoids spectacle entirely, opting instead for a quiet, lived-in creative space. A worn studio. A place built on repetition, doubt, and discipline. It’s not a portrait of success, it’s a portrait of process.
In an era where album artwork often sells image before intention, Cole does the opposite. The focus isn’t fame, status, or arrival. It’s the work. The roots.
The hours no one saw. The cover feels less like a promotional image and more like a memory, one that reminds us where mastery is actually formed.
This restraint mirrors the album’s rollout: everyday visuals, grounded moments, and narration centered on perception versus reality. Together, they challenge the idea that “falling off” means decline. Instead, Cole reframes it as evolution, what happens when an artist stops performing relevance and starts defining legacy.
There’s a full-circle energy embedded in the artwork. Its rawness feels intentional, almost nostalgic, echoing the spaces where Cole first learned how to listen to himself. In that way, the cover doesn’t announce an ending, it honors a beginning, standing as quiet proof that the truest form of growth is remembering where you started.
What Else We Know About The Fall-off
While the announcement felt sudden, The Fall-Off has been quietly living in J. Cole’s universe for years. In fact, this project has been teased as far back as 2018, when Cole closed out KOD with “1985 (Intro to The Fall-Off).” Since then, fans have treated the album like a myth—always referenced, never rushed.
The Fall-Off will mark J. Cole’s seventh studio album, following The Off-Season and the surprise-heavy run he’s been on in recent years. Songs like “False Prophets” and “Everybody Dies” were once rumored to be part of this album’s early DNA, suggesting that Cole has been refining, scrapping, and reshaping the vision for nearly a decade.
The newly released “Disc 2 – Track 2” adds another layer to the mystery. The title isn’t just abstract, it strongly signals that The Fall-Off may arrive as a double album, split into two distinct discs or perspectives. If true, it would align perfectly with the album’s larger themes: reflection, reversal, legacy, and the duality of success and obscurity.
Cole also released a short cinematic trailer alongside the announcement, opting for grounded visuals rather than spectacle. Everyday moments, washing a car, moving through normal life, contrast with narration centered on fame, relevance, and the fear artists face when the spotlight shifts. The message is clear: The Fall-Off isn’t about falling behind, but about outlasting the noise.
More than anything, this album feels positioned as a career capstone—a project meant to tie together the hunger of his early mixtape days, the confidence of his prime, and the clarity of an artist who’s no longer chasing validation. Cole isn’t teasing a comeback. He’s defining an ending on his own terms.
As the countdown begins, one thing is certain: The Fall-Off isn’t just another release—it’s a moment years in the making.
And once again, it proves why 2026 is truly THE YEAR OF THE TWO SIX.
WATCH THE CINEMATIC TRAILER FOR "THE FALL-OFF"
COOL KIDS COLLAB WISE MIND POP
Interview with Jose Kercado Jr. Founder and CEO of Wise Mind Movement
Article by Christina Miles
Photography by @ohfivev, Charles McNeill
This wasn’t just another pop-up — it was Ville business in its purest form. When Wise Mind Movement partnered with Gallery 13 on Hay Street, the collaboration felt natural, not forced. The kind of creative alignment that only happens when relationships are built over time.
At the center of it was artist and owner of Gallery 13, Carlos Tolentino, whose roots on Hay Street run deep. Pairing his artistic presence with Wise Mind’s evolving streetwear imprint created a moment that felt bigger than product. It felt like a cultural checkpoint for downtown Fayetteville.
While the conversation may spotlight CEO Jose Kercado Jr., Wise Mind has always been powered by a collective. The movement’s execution and growth are shaped alongside Collyn Strother, who plays a key role in refining creative direction, and Ashley Kercado, whose structure and strategy help sustain the brand behind the scenes. Wise Mind moves as a unit — and this collaboration reflected that synergy.
Elevated Pieces. Rooted in the Ville.
The drop itself marked growth.
Wise Mind introduced its first double-lined hoodie and most premium tee to date — signaling a clear elevation in quality. The pieces felt intentional, from fabric weight to construction. Even the custom mugs were sourced through a manufacturing connection Jose established while in Japan, blending global reach with local storytelling.
Design-wise, Hay Street anchored everything. As the home of Gallery 13 and a cornerstone of Carlos Tolentino’s creative journey, it was only right that the street be centered in the visuals.
The name Cool Kids Collab paid homage to Carlos’ early creative days — he had a clothing brand in high school under that same name. Revisiting it now felt like restoring a dream with grown precision. The embroidered detail reading “ville” tied the capsule together, speaking to both Hay Street and Fayetteville as a whole. For Wise Mind, the Ville represents origin and inspiration. For Carlos, it represents foundation and growth.
Nothing about the release was random. Every element carried context.
Community Over Clout
Community has always been Wise Mind’s blueprint.
Back in 2014, one of the most pivotal ways the brand gave back was through direct outreach efforts supporting Fayetteville’s unhoused community downtown. That early commitment to service still informs how the brand operates today. Through initiatives like Wise Loop, Wise Mind has funded creative projects, vendor setups, Black-owned brand releases, and production costs — often quietly. Impact has never required announcement.
That same mindset carried into the Gallery 13 pop-up. Every creative involved — photographers, videographers, DJs, assistants — was compensated. No unpaid “exposure” opportunities. Just respect for the work.
But beyond compensation, the atmosphere was the real takeaway. The space felt like reunion energy. Creatives reconnecting. Conversations happening organically. Old tensions dissolving through dialogue. It wasn’t networking — it was togetherness.
And that’s the kind of energy you can’t manufacture.
Twelve Years Deep. Still Building.
Twelve years into the journey, Wise Mind Movement continues to evolve.
After navigating serious health challenges last year and experiencing his crib being broken into the year prior — losing thousands in inventory — quitting could have been understandable. Instead, the brand sharpened its focus.
Early Wise Mind drops from 2014 look nothing like today’s releases. The difference? Detail. Fabric. Construction. Story. The growth wasn’t about chasing trends — it was about refining the craft, drop after drop.
“To still be here 12 years later and put up the numbers we did on this release — that means something.”
–jose kercado jr.
From the Ville, For the Ville
From Virginia to Japan to North Carolina to Long Beach, the journey spans continents — but Fayetteville remains the anchor.
The collaboration between Wise Mind Movement and Carlos Tolentino’s Gallery 13 wasn’t just about apparel. It was about honoring the Ville — the streets, the creatives, and the culture that continue to shape the city’s identity.
Hay Street witnessed more than a product launch. It witnessed alignment. And Wise Mind? Still here. Still building. Still rooted in the Ville.
Mind Movement
wisemindmovement.com
www.gallery13nc
BREATHE . FLIP. REPEAT
NO ROLLOUT, ALL BARS:
J. COLE’S
BIRTHDAY BLIZZARD ’26 FREESTYLES
Article by Zairis T Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief FAYNC Magazine
There are drops… and then there are moments. J. Cole just delivered the latter.
Without warning, the Fayetteville, North Carolina native stepped back into the rap ecosystem with Birthday Blizzard ’26—a fourpack of freestyles hosted by DJ Clue, that feels less like a casual release and more like a statement. No rollout. No spectacle. Just bars, urgency, and intention.
In an era where hype often outpaces substance, Cole did what he’s always done best: let the music speak first.
the Return of the Hunger
Each freestyle on Birthday Blizzard ’26 carries the spirit of Cole’s early days—the rawness, the introspection, the quiet confidence of an artist who never needed noise to be heard. His pen moves with precision, weaving personal reflection with cultural commentary, reminding listeners why his voice still holds weight in hip-hop’s ever-shifting landscape.
These aren’t just freestyles. They’re temperature checks. They’re reminders. They’re warnings wrapped in wisdom.
Cole sounds present, grounded, and sharper than ever—balancing maturity with the hunger of someone who still feels like he has something to prove, even after everything he’s accomplished.
More Than a Drop—It’s a Signal
Birthday Blizzard ’26 feels symbolic. The timing, the tone, the intentional quietness of the release—it all suggests something bigger brewing beneath the surface. Whether it’s a precursor to The Fall-off or simply Cole exercising creative freedom, one thing is clear: he’s in control of his narrative. And maybe that’s the real message.
While the industry chases moments, Cole continues to build legacy—brick by brick, verse by verse.
The Cole Effect
J. Cole’s surprise release isn’t just another addition to his catalog; it’s a cultural ripple. It reignites conversations about lyricism, authenticity, and the power of restraint in a world addicted to excess.
Birthday Blizzard ’26 doesn’t scream for attention. It commands it.
And as the snow settles, one thing becomes undeniable: When J. Cole moves, hip-hop listens.
THE RETURN OF THE TWO SIX CYPHER
with Mark Mayr, Founder and CEO of Bonfire Creative
There are moments… and then there are movements. The 2026 Two Six Cypher feels like both.
Interview
Article by Christina Miles
Photography by @zairistejion, Zairis T Miles
The idea sparked during a conversation at Smithway Invitational, where Two Six Project founder Grant Bennett and Bonfire Creative Founder Mark Mayr connected over one simple truth: 2026 is around the corner — The Year of the ’26. With 2-6-26 on the calendar, the timing felt bigger than coincidence. It felt like a call. Grant shared how the original 2-6 Cypher inspired him as a high schooler. That reflection — paired with the impact the Two Six Project continues to have on Fayetteville’s youth — made the decision easy. It was time to run it back. Not for nostalgia. For impact.
What “Two Six” Really Means
“Two Six” isn’t just a nickname. It’s a mindset. It’s making something out of nothing. It’s embracing where we come from and choosing to build something powerful around it. Whatever debates exist about the origin of the term, one thing is clear — 2-6 is here to stay. So why not attach pride, creativity, and elevation to it?
Why Orange Street School?
The cypher was filmed inside Two Six Labs at Orange Street School — the historic predecessor to E.E. Smith and the first publicly funded school for African-American students in Cumberland County. Today, it stands as a space that preserves history while incubating the future.
Inside the lab sits a powerful mural by local artists — iconic, bold, unapologetically Ville. The setting wasn’t random. It was intentional. A backdrop that represents what was, what is, and what can be.
“It's up to us as a community to define the culture of our city. Let's speak life into the Ville and meet some of the less-savory aspects of our city's reputation with forthrightness, vulnerability, and a vision for the future with hopes of transmuting our collective energy into something more positive." –mark mayr
Fully Ville Grown
This cypher is 99% grassroots. No major budget. Just pooled resources, favors, and belief. Wise Mind Movement — led by Jose Kercado — helped close the financial gaps to make the vision real. Local producers like Mike $antana, OG Dynasty, Dipsey D, Carolina Cool Slim and others crafted the sound, pulling from a distinctly Carolina energy tailored for a cypher format.
When last-minute mic plans fell through the morning of the shoot, the Ville did what the Ville does — adjusted. DJ Yodo stepped in. Local engineers locked in countless studio hours. Problem solved.
That’s what “Ville grown” means. We have the talent. Right here.
WATCH "CREATING THE TWO SIX CYPHER"
Then vs. Now
The original cypher dropped in 2014 — the same year 2014 Forest Hills Drive shifted the global spotlight toward Fayetteville. That first cypher was a unifying send-off, created with the experience and tools available at the time.
Fast forward to 2026
The scene is sharper. The production is elevated. The intentionality is deeper — even weaving in spoken word from Fayetteville poet Suave of Lost Voices. A decade of growth is visible in every frame. Steadicam polish meets handheld chaos. Raw energy meets cinematic refinement. And yes — pay attention to the outro.
A City That’s Hungry
Selling out Omni Cinemas’ largest theater (162 seats) in three hours says everything. The city is hungry for art that reflects us. As J. Cole steps into his finale era with The Fall-Off, the question lingers: Who’s next from the Ville?
We’ve already seen artists like Morray and Chlöe reach global audiences with homegrown stories. The pipeline isn’t drying up. It’s expanding.
Bigger Than a Video
The 2026 Two Six Cypher isn’t just a drop. It’s a timestamp.
It’s proof that major creative hubs don’t only exist in bigger cities. It’s a reminder that collaboration multiplies impact. It’s filmmakers, producers, poets, engineers, streetwear brands, radio platforms, and nonprofits choosing to
Most of all, it’s an invitation:
Create. Collaborate. Pour back into the community. Build something bigger than yourself.
Five years from now, we’ll look back and remember how fun this was. But right now?
It’s The Year of the ’26. And the Ville is speaking.
Artists
Hosted by DJ Ricoveli @djricoveli
Mac DaBlackSheep @macdablacksheep
Big CakeO @bigcake-o1847
Tony Love @ogdopeent
YEA @official.yea
Featuring Beats From Local Ville Producer
Mike $antana
CEO OG Dynasty
Dipsey D
Carolina Cool Slim
Engineered By Local Ville Producers
Tev
Starseed Dro
Tony Love
Justin P
William Prize @WilliamPrize
Carolina Cool Slim @carolinacoolmusic
Starseed Dro @starseeddro3699
Boukhepra @boukhepra.5812
Trev Truth @trevtruth
Papi Francos @PapiFrancos
Video Produced By Local Ville Crew
Creator, Director & Editor: Mark Mayr
Assistant Director: Jamil Powell
Director of Photography: Halv
2nd Unit DP & Colorist: Brandon Noel Camera Operators: Kameron Bradley, Velmatic & Johnny Heartbreak
BRN Bmore @Brn_bmore
"Make It Thrive" Outro Poem
Written and performed by Andre 'Suave' Sansbury
Outro Instrumental produced by Cidy Pyramids
Intro Poem written by Mark Mayr Outro Instrumental produced by Cidy Pyramids
Key Grip: David Sievers
Gaffer: Barry Williams
BTS Video Filmed by: Justin P, Johnny Heartbreak
BTS Livestreamed by: Queztion
BTS Photography by: Hazel Eyes Photography, Fly Guy Media, Velmatic
WATCH "THE 2026 TWO SIX CYPHER"
Contact
Mark Mayr
Bonfire Creative
The Two Six Project @markmayr markmayrproductions@gmail.com @thebonfirecreative
TWO SIX DISTRICT VOL . 1 MIXTAPE
Hosted and curated by Zairis TéJion, this project flips some of J. Cole’s most impactful verses into something entirely new — reimagined, re-blended, and reborn over fresh production. It’s not just a remix tape. It’s a sonic reintroduction.
Rooted in Fayetteville’s “Two Six” identity, TWO SIX DISTRICT VOL. 1 feels like riding through the city at night — Sandhills grit, soulful undertones, jazz textures, and hard drums all colliding. From the “Villematic Remix” of Album Of The Year to the “Sandhills Storm Remix” of Applying Pressure, each track carries a distinct mood while honoring the lyricism that made the originals iconic.
The tape opens with Two Six Intro With Zai, setting the tone before diving into flips like:
Punchin The Clock (Vibe Blend)
Just To Get By (Flame Remix)
THE SECRET RECIPE (Jazz Remix)
3001 (Two Six Remix)
Trae The Truth In Ibiza (Villematic Remix)
And it closes out with a full seamless mix — a nod to classic DJ culture.
What makes this project even more personal is the community woven throughout it. Local creatives James Vader, Mark Mayr, PME, Keem Jones, Wise Mind Jose, and Zairis Miles Jr. stamp the tape with their own custom tags, adding texture, personality, and hometown pride to every transition.
It’s collaborative without losing focus. It’s curated without feeling polished to the point of losing soul.
TWO SIX DISTRICT VOL. 1 isn’t about replacing the originals — it’s about reframing them through a Fayetteville lens. It’s nostalgia, elevation, and regional pride in one continuous blend.
This is Two Six. This is tribute. This is remix culture done with intention.
TWO SIX DISTRICT VOL. 1 Mixtape
Click the tape below to listen
TWO SIX DISTRICT VOL. 1 is a love letter to the culture, the city, and the sound that shaped a generation.
Fayetteville don’t make it out… We make it thrive
"
Stitched In My Skin"
Poem by Andre Sansbury Jr., CEO of Lost Voices Empire
@lostvoicesempire andresansburyjr@gmail.com
Babies killing babies
I see it on the news daily
But what’s crazy
This city been heavy far before the internet learned to dramatize, Before they monetized our trauma, then called it a timeline. They say the Ville a dead end, a place you never elevate, But I seen blessings take off right here from Section 8.
They love to talk escape routes, like leaving is the win, But I done flew the world with Fayetteville stitched in my skin. Affordable dreams, global moves, I’m proof it can expand And I ain’t even the biggest name walking through this land.
It’s kings in quiet positions, queens with equity, Underground, underpaid attention, but overqualified legacy. We don’t trend, we transcend
Different algorithms, Real money, real places, real-life deliverables.
Our youth don’t need more sirens screaming “don’t you try,” They need hands that say “I got you” when they don’t know why. We build cages with policies, then act shocked when they wild, Instead of blueprints, mentors, and vision for the child.
We standing where Black knowledge first learned how to rebel Orange Street School, education rang louder than bells. Now it’s Two-Six Labs
Same soil, upgraded mission, Turn pain into platforms, turn history into ignition.
This ain’t just a cypher, it’s authorship in real time, Rewriting what they said about this city and its lifeline. Pressure made diamonds, we ain’t crack, we evolved From struggle to structure, from surviving to involved.
I’m from the 2–6, where the weight make us wise, Where purpose speak fluent in pain and still rise. So when the beat drop, let the truth come alive, Fayetteville don’t make it out…
We make it thrive
Completed on February 11, 2026, local creative
"Mook The Hartist" has gifted the city a new cultural landmark: a striking J. Cole mural tucked beneath the steel beams of downtown’s bridge. And it doesn’t whisper nostalgia, it declares legacy.
Front and center, an early image of Cole is captured mid-recording, mic suspended in front of him, eyes focused, mouth open as if the bars are still being written in real time. To the left, more eras of Cole’s journey are layered in portrait form, subtle nods to growth, hunger, and the evolution from Fayetteville dreamer to global voice. This mural is a timeline in grayscale. Stamped boldly beside him: “The Ville Is Back.” With "The Real Is Back" overlaying. This is a notable quote from J. Cole's track "January 28th" which is featured on his previous albums, "Forest Hills Drive".
A Love Letter to The Ville
Fayetteville has always claimed Cole, but this mural feels like the city claiming itself. Under the dim lights and framed by raw industrial architecture, the piece lives in the heart of Downtown FAYNC. Mook The Hartist’s decision to render the work in monochrome is intentional.
The absence of color sharpens emotion. It highlights texture. It centers expression. It forces you to focus on the face, the voice, the message. No distractions. Just presence.
And that presence? It feels permanent.
More Than Paint
Public art does something powerful, it anchors memory to place. For Fayetteville, this mural isn’t just about J. Cole’s success. It’s about what happens when a small-city dream refuses to shrink.
It’s for the kid walking past wondering if their vision is valid. It’s for the creatives building in silence. It’s for The Ville TWO SIX!!! Aaaahhhhaantttt!!
February 11, 2026 now marks more than a completion date. It marks another chapter in Fayetteville’s cultural creative renaissance, a city continuously redefining itself through art, music, and unapologetic identity.
“The Ville Is Back” isn’t about returning. It’s about reminding the world we never left.
And now, it’s written on the wall.
We Chopped it up with Mook The Hartist
Zairis: Public art lives in conversation with community what reactions or moments from people passing by has stood out to you since the mural went up
Mook The Hartist: Man, just the kids running up out of the opening school recess and it just having the kids asked me as I'm doing it ‘is that Cole’? It like made my heart warm but I was like yeah and they just started screaming I'm like bro what are you like 9 or something? You know, what this is? That was so hard. That was that was one of my big highlights of that day and then my homegirl Ayanna she pulled up and she was like Yooo! Another big one is when the art teacher came out there and spoke to me and she said how she felt about it like how it made her feel and like what it conveyed for her and I was like it's doing exactly what I wanted and I'm not even done with it yet. To get her praise was dope to get the kids approval was my real stamp, like I don’t even care if it don't look good or anything that could happen, they had to approve it, that's all that matters. The kids, the art teacher and then everybody else that pulled up, you [Zairis] pulling up out there just people spotting me, I was trying to keep it hidden and people still fount out. So it was the motivation for sure, everybody that pulled up on me as I worked it pushed me to go harder.
Zairis: For young creatives in Fayetteville who see the mural and feel inspired what message would you want them to take away about pursuing their art and representing their hometown Mook The Hartist: Ohh man do it because its you. Do it because you feel it, don't do it to get paid don't do it because somebody told you to do it,
or you should do it, do it because if you don't do it, it makes you uneasy you're not at peace. Do it for your peace because when you love it you're going to do it regardless. Things of the regular life is not going to factor, the system is not going to factor, you're living your dream and being your dream because that's where your peace and your happiness is and it's one thing that nobody can take from you. Nobody will ever be able to touch it. Where it's only tangible to you and tangible to your soul because one thing about doing stuff like that when you really love it you realize how rich your spirit and soul feels.
"So that's what you should take away from seeing this art and seeing that its a process. This is the process of being the young Cole to older Cole. You see the beginning to the end– the journey is long the journey is far but it starts with you. So take that from me, that it starts with you."
–mook the hartist
@mookthehartist
FROM TWO SIX TO THE WORLD: FROM TWO SIX TO THE WORLD:
BUILDING BRIM WORLD ONE STITCH AT A TIME
Interview with Maurice Curry, Founder and CEO of Brim World
Article and Photography by Zairis T. Miles @zairistejion, Zairis T. Miles
In true Two Six fashion, the story comes full circle.
I sat down with Maurice Curry, CEO and Founder of Brim World, for a conversation rooted in Fayetteville pride, creative resilience, and a surreal full-circle moment involving none other than Fayetteville’s own, J. Cole.
And if you thought this was just about hats and jerseys, think again. This is about legacy.
The Origin of Brim World: Flipping the Script for the City
Brim World started with a remix.
Maurice took inspiration from the iconic 76ers logo and flipped it into “Two Sixers” a bold nod to the 910’s beloved nickname for Fayetteville: 2-6. What began as a creative play on sports culture quickly became something bigger.
From there, he kept remixing different inspirations, colorways, concepts. Philadelphia Flyers influence. Streetwear aesthetics. Classic sports silhouettes. But the mission remained the same: design something that feels like home.
Brim World became a movement rooted in reimagining icons, but through a Fayetteville lens.
What “Brim World” Really Means
Brim World isn’t just a name it’s a mindset.
“Brim World is International,” Maurice says. “Start at home first. But it’s for everywhere, Italy, Spain, Africa, China. Anywhere. It applies.”
That duality is the blueprint. Fayetteville first. The world next.
It’s local pride with global vision — a brand that believes the 2-6 deserves international recognition.
The Signature Piece
Right now? It’s the black denim trucker hat.
With detailed side patches and signature embroidery (“Chanel” stitching boldly across the front), Maurice calls it a standout classic.
“Denim never goes out of style,” he explains.
“Light blue, black — it always stands out. I wanted something different. Something you can wear every day.”
It’s not just a hat. It’s becoming his signature. And in streetwear, signature pieces turn into staples.
“Everybody reps where they’re from. Nip had Crenshaw. Why can’t we have Fayetteville?”
Why Fayetteville? Why 2-6 Day?
For him, highlighting the city isn’t optional it’s necessary.
“Cole really put us on the map,” he says proudly. “But we gotta blow it up too.”
That’s the energy behind 2-6 Day a celebration of culture, creatives, and the community that raised them. It’s about owning the narrative. Turning the volume up on Fayetteville pride.
The J. Cole Connection: A 20-Year Full Circle
Before the jersey. Before the CD cover. There was a song.
Nearly 20 years ago, Maurice and a group of local artists Omar Davis, Marcus Shaw, and Jonathan Billingslea created a track called “Fayetteville.” It was a crunk-style anthem they performed around the city. They even opened at the Crown for LL Cool J.
Years later, J. Cole revealed something unbelievable: he had been in the crowd when they performed that song.
“It was imprinted in his brain,” Maurice recalls.
When Cole later reimagined the hook chanting “F-A-Y-ET-T-E-V-IdoubleL-E ” he brought the anthem back with a smoother, evolved sound. A new era. Same city pride. Old seed. New harvest.
The Jersey That Went Global
The moment that changed everything?
Maurice handed Cole two jerseys during a meeting with no expectations attached. “Wear it whenever you want,” he told him. He had no idea what was coming.
Months later, during the 2-6 Cypher, someone mentioned seeing the jersey on the back of The Fall-Off CD cover.
Maurice didn’t even know.
“I really had no idea this was going to happen,” he says. “People were asking me, ‘Why didn’t you tell us?’ I didn’t know!”
Seeing his design on a physical J. Cole CD distributed worldwide was surreal.
“All over the world. Not just the United States. International. It’s crazy. I still can’t believe it.”
And here’s the part that hits hardest: He was close to quitting.
“I was about to stop doing this. It gets frustrating — the time, the money, feeling like you’re not getting anywhere. I was tired. Then I said, you know what… let me try one more time.”
One more time.
That “one more time” ended up on a global album cover.
The Bigger Message
Maurice Curry’s story isn’t just about fashion. It’s about faith in your craft when no one’s clapping yet. It’s about planting seeds in your city and trusting they’ll grow.
Brim World started with a flipped logo. Now it’s stitched into Fayetteville history. And if this is what happens when you try one more time?
The world might not be ready for what’s next.
NERV NERV NERV NERV NERV NERV
nervous reck
INSIDE THE SHELTUH: FAYETTEVILLE’S NEXT DYNASTY
Interview with Nervous Reck, Owner of The Sheltuh Record Label
Article and Photography by
Zairis T. Miles @
zairistejion, Zairis T. Miles
If you know the Ville, you know the name. And if you don’t, consider this your
official introduction.
At just 14 years old, Cole connected with the crew at one of their shows. Nerv and the team poured into him, offering mentorship and game during those early years. That piece of Fayetteville history is not just trivia. It is foundation.
In 2004, Nerv relocated to Raleigh to attend engineering school, determined to sharpen his production skills and elevate his sound. Business expanded. Life evolved. Music took a backseat. But it never left him.
The Sheltuh: More Than a Label
When FAYNC Magazine sat down with Nervous Reck, the energy felt different. Not nostalgic. Not stuck in the past. It felt focused. Intentional. Like someone who understands legacy and is ready to level it up.
This is not a comeback story. This is a continuation.
Before The Buzz, There Was Bomm Sheltuh
Long before algorithms and streaming stats, Nerv was building motion the organic way. In the late 90s and early 2000s, Bomm Sheltuh had Fayetteville and surrounding cities tapped in. Shows were packed. The city was paying attention.
And yes, this is also where a young J. Cole enters the timeline.
By 2023, the pull back to music was undeniable. Instead of simply dropping a single and testing the waters, Nerv built infrastructure. A label. A platform. A new era.
The Sheltuh was born.
The first artist signed was Fayetteville’s own Prettyface Gangsta, known to some longtime listeners as Sweepstakes or Sweeps. Nerv had already been watching his evolution. Around Thanksgiving 2022, unreleased tracks were playing in the room and something clicked.
“This is crazy. He needs to be heard.”
Conversations turned into strategy. Strategy turned into partnership. The goal was clear from day one. Superstar status.
The first official release under the label, Sheltuh Is Westside Shooter Point Guard, set the tone. Sharp. Intentional. Unapologetically Fayetteville.
Built From Loss. Driven By Legacy.
The story behind The Sheltuh carries real weight.
Shortly after launching the label, Nerv’s longtime partner and Bomm Sheltuh member Filthe Ritch was tragically murdered in Fayetteville. The original vision had been to reunite the group and release new music together.
That opportunity was taken far too soon.
Everything The Sheltuh does now carries Filthe’s spirit. The logo itself symbolizes him saluting in his signature cut off gloves. Every move is a tribute.
And this year, on Two Six Day, there was a moment of closure. Filthe finally received justice. His murderer was found guilty.
For the city, for the family, and for the culture, that verdict meant something.
Grief has turned into purpose. Pain has been redirected into power.
The Meaning Behind The Name
The Sheltuh is not just branding. It is history.
Back in the 90s, when Nerv’s parents relocated to St. Louis for Air Force duty, he stayed behind and rented the family home. That house became a creative lab for him and the crew. Beats were made there. Verses were sharpened. Dreams were built. They called it The Sheltuh.
When he later moved to Raleigh, the name followed. When J. Cole built his own studio, he called it The Sheltuh too, paying homage to where it all began.
So when it was time to name the label, Nerv prayed for clarity. The answer came instantly.
The Sheltuh.
Legacy locked in.
Yes, New Music Is Coming
For those wondering if Nerv is stepping back behind the mic himself, the answer is yes.
During the pandemic, he started making beats again. That naturally led back to rapping. Multiple full projects are already recorded and sitting unreleased.
Still, the transition back into artist mode has not been without vulnerability.
“I get anxiety,” he admits openly. After being away from the spotlight for years, stepping back into it feels different. He is balancing artistry with family life, responsibility, and growth.
That transparency is part of what makes this era feel authentic.
The Sheltuh is not about chasing youth. It is about creating space. Especially for artists who have lived, evolved, and still have something meaningful to say.
What Sets The Sheltuh Apart
It is deeply rooted in Fayetteville culture. It is led by someone who has lived every chapter of the city’s modern hip hop story. It is fueled by intention, not trends.
Nerv is not chasing moments. He is building structure. He is investing fully in Prettyface Gangsta as the next breakout star from the Ville. He is honoring fallen brothers. He is creating opportunity for artists who might otherwise be overlooked.
And he hints that major surprises are on the horizon.
The Sheltuh is not just a label. It is a homegrown movement. A tribute. A blueprint.
And if Nervous Reck has anything to say about it, the next wave out of Fayetteville will not wait for validation.
It will create its own lane.
Contact
Nervous Reck
The Sheltuh @nervreck
thesheltuh.com @bommsheltuh thesheltuhworldwide
Your Legacy Will Live On Rip Filthe
LEGACY IN REAL VILLE TIME: J. COLE’S THE FALL - OFF
ISN ’T THE END
Article by Zairis T. Miles, Founder + Editor In Chief FAYNC Magazine
J. Cole has finally stepped into the moment he’s been circling for years. The Fall-Off isn’t just an album title, it’s a thesis, a mirror, and a mic drop all wrapped into one. After more than a decade of redefining what longevity looks like in hip-hop, Cole arrives with a project that feels intentional, reflective, and unafraid of the truth.
From the jump, the Fall-Off carries the weight of an artist who understands his place in the culture. This is Cole at full clarity, no chasing trends, no noise for the sake of relevance.
Instead, he leans into storytelling, self-examination, and razor-sharp bars that feel lived-in. Every record sounds like it was written from experience, not expectation. Real life ville terminologies that only real Fayettevillians know about!
Lyrically, Cole is in rare form. He confronts fame, faith, doubt, success, and the quiet fear of being misunderstood at the peak. There’s a calm confidence throughout the album, balanced with moments of vulnerability that remind listeners why his voice has always cut deeper than most. This isn’t about proving he’s still elite, The Fall-off assumes you already know.
Production-wise, the album stays grounded but expansive. Soulful textures, minimal but effective drums, and cinematic transitions create space for the words to breathe. Nothing feels rushed. Nothing feels wasted. It’s a project designed to be played front-to-back, the way albums were meant to be heard.
What makes The Fall-off hit hardest is its honesty. Cole doesn’t position himself above the culture, he stands inside it, wrestling with his own legacy in real time. He questions the idea of “falling off” while simultaneously redefining what growth looks like when you’ve already reached the top.
At FAYNC Magazine
,
we see The Fall-Off as more than a release, it’s a cultural checkpoint
.
J. Cole reminds us that evolution doesn’t always sound loud. Sometimes it sounds like clarity.
Sometimes it sounds like purpose. And sometimes, it sounds like an artist fully owning "his story", on his own terms.
The Fall-off isn’t the end. It’s the exhale.
J. Cole’s The Fall-Off, which he previously teased to fans as being “a double album made with intentions to be my last,” is here.
Behind The Fall-off
While it remains to be seen whether the album, which comes after 2021's conceptually related The Off-Season and 2024's Might Delete Later tape, will indeed be Cole's final outing as an artist, what's clear is that Cole isn't foolin' around with the rollout. He's been meticulous in recent weeks when it comes to detailing the intentions behind the new album, complete with a trailer narrated by comedian Dan Harumi.
In light of the album's long-awaited release, we've taken it upon ourselves to share a closer look at the features and production credits behind Cole's latest.
Keep reading for more. Production and writing credits are adapted from Tidal. Additional credits may be added in the coming days.
J. Cole's The Fall-Off-an album he's long teased as
"a double album made with intentions to be my last"
—has officially arrived, and the moment feels heavier than just another release. Whether this truly marks Cole's final chapter or simply the close of a long, intentional era remains to be seen. What is undeniable is the care, precision, and purpose behind every move leading up to it.
Following 2021's The Off-Season and 2024's Might Delete Later, The Fall-Off feels like the culmination of a vision years in the making. Cole hasn't rushed a single step of this rollout. From carefully worded reflections to a cinematic trailer narrated by comedian Dan Harumi, the message is clear: this isn't about hype-it's about legacy.
With the album now in the world, we're diving deeper into the details that shape The Fall-Off. From standout features to the producers and writers who helped bring Cole's vision to life, this project is layered with intention at every level.
Keep reading as we break down the full list of features and production credits. Credits are adapted from TIDAL, with additional details expected to surface in the days ahead.
Track Break Downs
“29 lntro”
Written by: Jermaine Cole, James Taylor
Produced by: J. Cole
“Two Six”
Written by: Damon Coleman, Donald Maurice Pears II, Jermaine Cole, Ron Gilmore Jr., Tyler Williams
Produced by: Omen, T-Minus “SAFETY”
Written by: Jermaine Cole, Joe Sample, Keir Gist, Kelvin Wooten, Melvin Dinkins, Michael Holmes, Powers Pleasant, Thomas Wlodarcyk, Tim Friedrich
Produced by: DZL, J. Cole, Powers Pleasant, Sucuki, Wu10
“Run a Train” f/ Future
Written by: Aaron Goldstein, Jermaine Cole, Mario Luciano, Nima Jahanbin, Steve Bilodeau, Tyler Williams
Produced by: JŪN TETRA & GLDY JR, T-Minus
“Poor Thang”
Written by: Bunny Sigler, Damon Coleman, Jeremy Allen, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, M. Roach, Michael Holmes, Phillip Hurtt, Steve Bilodeau, Torence Hatch, Tyler Williams
Produced by: J. Cole
“Legacy”
Written by: Brayon Nelson, Jermaine Cole, Justin Bryant, Leroy Emmanuel, Luca Mauti, Paris Jones, Steve Bilodeau, Tyler Williams
Produced by: J. Cole, T-Minus
“Bunce Road Blues” f/ Future and Tems
Written by: Abbas Hamad, Alan Maman, Brian Casey, Bryan James Sledge, Jermaine Cole, Jermaine Dupri, Manuel Seal, Margaux Whitney, Ron Gilmore Jr., Usher Raymond
Produced by: The Alchemist
“WHO TF IZ U”
Written by: ANDERSON HERNANDEZ, Beatrice Verdi, Harvey Fuqua, Jermaine Cole, Johnny Bristol, Tyler Williams
Produced by: J. Cole, T-Minus, Vinylz
“Drum n Bass”
Written by: Aaron Goldstein, Benjamin Siciliano, Jermaine Cole, Nima Jahanbin, Scott Cossu, Tyler Williams
Produced by: JŪN TETRA & GLDY JR
“The Let Out”
Written by: Jermaine Cole, Steve Bilodeau, Tyler Williams
Produced by: Steve Bilodeau, T-Minus “Bombs in the Ville/Hit the Gas”
Written by: Christopher Bridges, Jermaine Cole, Matthew Samuels, Shondrae Crawford, Steve Bilodeau, Tyler Williams
Produced by: Boi-1da, Fierce, Jermaine Cole, T-Minus
“Lonely at the Top”
Written by: Amber Joy Croskery, David Linaburg, Jeremie S. Pennick, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Michael Holmes, Thomas A. Paladino
Produced by: DZL, Wu10
“39 Intro”
Written by: ANDERSON HERNANDEZ, Coleman, FNZ, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Steve Bilodeau, Tyler Williams, Willie Hutch
Produced by: FNZ, J. Cole, Steve Bilodeau, T-Minus, Vinylz, Wu10
“The Fall-Off is Inevitable”
Written by: Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Maneesh Bidaye, Michael Holmes
Produced by: DZL, Maneesh
“The Villest” f/ Erykah Badu
Written by: André Benjamin, Antwan Patton, Barbara Gaskins, Damon Coleman, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Michael Holmes, Tyler Williams
Produced by: J. Cole, OMEN
“Old Dog” f/ Petey Pablo
Written by: Aldrin Davis, Clifford Harris, Jermaine Cole, Tyler Williams
Produced by: J. Cole
“Life Sentence”
Written by: Anthony Fields, Cedric Brown, Craig Ashley David, Earl Simmons, Fraser Lance Thorneycroft Smith, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Tyler Williams
Produced by: T-Minus
“Only You” f/ Burna Boy
Written by: Abdul Aziz Dieng, Alistaire Duhane Mccalla, Daoud Anthony, Donovan Bennett, Eva L. Fontes, Jermaine Cole, Luca Mauti, Michael Holmes, Nigel Andrew Staff, Roshaun Omowale Clarke, Siccature Alcock, Tyler Williams, Wayne Morris, Xavier Anthony Davidson
Produced by: DZL, Luca Mauti, T-Minus
“Man Up Above”
Written by: Andre Deyo, David Styles, Jason Phillips, Jean Oliver, Jennifer Lopez, Jermaine Cole, José Fernando Arbex Miro, Lawrence Krsone Parker, Marvin Louis Sapp, Matthew Richard Brownie, Michael Ian Oliviere, Samuel Barnes, Scott Monroe Sterling, Troy A Oliver, Tyler Williams, William Robinson, Jr.
Produced by: T-Minus
“I Love Her Again”
Written by: Bobby Caldwell, Bruce Malament, Jacob Dutton, James Dewitt Yancey, Jermaine Cole, Lonnie Lynn, Norman Qilliam Harris, Phil Nimmons
Produced by: J. Cole
“What If” f/ morray
Written by: Beat Butcha, Donte Perkins, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Tyler Williams
Produced by: Beat Butcha, TaeBeast
“Quik Stop”
Written by: Damon Coleman, Devin Copeland, Dexter Johnson, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Michael Holmes, Robert McQueen
Produced by: DZL, J. Cole, Omen
“and the whole world is the Ville”
Written by: Abdul Aziz Dieng, Christopher Jasper, Jermaine Cole, Jonathan Billingslea, M Shaw, O'Kelly Isley, Omar Davis, Ronald Isley, Rudolph Isley, Steven Maurice Curry
Produced by: AzizTheShake
“Ocean Way”
Written by: David Linaburg, Jermaine Cole, Kelvin Wooten, Ronald Gilmore
Produced by: David Linaburg, Jermaine Cole, Ron Gilmore Jr.
J. Cole Remakes 5 Classic
Rap Songs On The Fall-Off
Safety by J. Cole = One Love by Nas
Like Nas does on his track "One Love", Cole recalls three interactions with friends. But, he flips it and makes each verse a message a friend is delivering to him.
Life Sentence by J. Cole =
How It's Goin' Down by DMX
DMX's classic is about the one that got away. Cole gives his version a happier ending, recounting his journey with the one who would become his wife.
The Villest by J. Cole =
The Realest by Mobb Deep
Cole flips Mob Deep's classic Alchemist produced track to talk to talk about some of the realest things he's experienced in life.
I Love Her Again by J. Cole = I Used To Love H.E.R. by Common
Like Common did in 1994, Cole uses a story about a woman he's pursuing as a metaphor for his ever-changing relationship with hip hop.
The Fall-Off Is Inevitable by J. Cole = Rewind By Nas
Cole tells a masterful tale in reverse, but his is the story of his life.
TWO SIX, The Official Music Visual
Thats not all tho! J. Cole has dropped a visual to "Two Six" which is one of the tracks off "The Fall-off". Which highlights some notable places in the ville! We absolutely love how Cole made the ville look so cinematic, raw and authentic! Capturing the pure essence and displaying it to the world!
A Closing Statement , Not a Curtain Call
The Fall-Off doesn’t arrive asking for validation—it arrives already knowing what it is. This is the sound of an artist standing at the peak he promised years ago, looking back at every step that led him there. From the long-game vision that began with KOD to the disciplined rollout and deeply personal storytelling, J. Cole delivers a body of work that feels intentional in every sense.
If this is truly the final chapter, it’s one written with clarity, hunger, and respect for the craft. No shortcuts. No trendchasing. Just a reminder of what happens when an artist trusts their voice and commits fully to their vision. The FallOff isn’t just an album—it’s a closing statement, a legacy piece, and a benchmark for how to exit the stage with purpose.
From
With
Written by Rakeem “Keem” Jones , Writer
“If we just come together, ain’t no telling what can happen”, says everybody, every time, about everything. –rakeem “keem” jones
February 6, 2026, or 2-6-26, was different because we saw unity and the true definition of community. While the world celebrated the release of The Fall-Off, the Ville celebrated a new holiday, 2-6 Day. As the media and the world wondered the meaning behind Cole’s release date, the city already knew: this one for the Ville. The excitement was immediate and it energized the creative community. However, the way the city began connecting was like nothing we have ever seen before. The presence of The Fall-Off billboards around the city became a topic of conversation.
2-6 Day In Fay
DAY
Rather than utilizing the traditional markets, the Dreamville head honcho chose his hometown of Fayetteville as the center of his promotional effort. From the announcement, the presence of Fayetteville was felt and displayed. Furthermore, all those past Cole sightings began to make sense. In his announcement, you can see Cole washing his Lamborghini at the car wash on Bragg Boulevard or eating at the same Waffle House where he left a $400 tip and autograph. We must not forget the canceled video shoot after information about it was published. As one of the few that “made it”, Cole remains
Never one to boast, he moves in stealth mode. The Grammy award winner is slow to be spotted because stays under the radar, however when he is spotted, pandemonium ensues. When he is not present, his influence remains strong. Therefore, his release date led to the creation of a new holiday for the City of Fayetteville, 2-6 Day. The epicenter for all 2-6 Day celebrations was Downtown Fayetteville, however there were events all over the city to commemorate the historic date. In addition, the Markethouse was lit the same orange hue as The Fall-Off album art. Venues like The Sip Room, Bruce’s Sportsbloc, Gameday Apparel, and 104.5 all hosted listening parties at competition, there was collaboration and collective effort in support of the city. Though there was skepticism about whether it was for the culture overshadowed all questionable thoughts.
No matter what side you were from, everyone was greeted with
“AAAANNNNNNAAA ANNNNNTTTTT…. HAPPY 2-6
DAY”.
People were saying “HAPPY 2-6 DAY” as if it were an actual holiday. Well, it is an actual holiday because we made it that way. Yes, we all knew that it was a special day, but the way the community showed up was magical. Cole was the catalyst for this moment that we will always remember. 2-6-26 will never happen again and that was (hopefully not) Cole’s last project. However, there is a February 6 every year and another opportunity to support local art and business. I saw a post online that said “Was it a one-night stand”, and personally I don’t believe it was because we saw what could happen if we came together and showed love to each other.
The 2-6 Day energy was kickstarted Thursday night when Mark Mayr invited everyone to attend an early screening of the Two-Six Cypher 2026 at the Omni Cinemas 8. It was the first time I have seen something of that magnitude happen in the city outside of a video shoot. The crowd was diverse. I saw the “gangsters” from Bonnie Doone conversing and laughing with the “soccer mom” from Haymount Hill. Being in the theater taught me
one thing: the city supports our own and we can come together. Unity does not mean everyone has to get along. Think of the Ville as a puzzle, you just have to find where you fit and be your best. Fayetteville is diverse, yes, but it does not have to be divided. A community is made of a collection of thoughts, feelings, and ideas coexisting for the greater good and betterment of all. We, as a city, should not depend on one man to make us all better. We did what we were supposed to do: make him better and champion him as we did all these years. We came together as a city and had the rest of the world coming here to celebrate with us. But, we cannot stop here because the world celebrated The Fall-Off. However, Cole’s fall-off led to the Ville’s come up.
We are now on a world stage.
Everything we do will be magnified, good or bad. Think about it, Fayetteville is and will be the topic of discussion for a long time because of the first ever 2-6 Day. It will be the day Cole dropped his last project and the Ville came together as ONE. 2-6 Day isn’t about a music release, that was the catalyst. 2-6 Day is about supporting local art (Don’t wait, you see what happened with Cole) and community building from within. 2-6 is about celebrating those overlooked and underrepresented areas of Fayetteville like Bonnie Doone, Shaw Road, and Bunce Road. Even if the city at-large or the city government does not recognize 2-6 Day as “official”, we will because it was created for us and by us. Love to every part of the Ville, no matter what side.
Salute to Cole, the 2-6, and every activist getting active. Peace.
Thank You
CREDITS +THANKS
For our special 2-6 Edition of FAYNC Magazine, gratitude is at the heart of it all.
First and foremost, thank you to our subscribers and social media community. Your constant support, reposts, comments, and conversations fuel everything we do. Because of you, we’re able to continue telling stories that celebrate the culture, creativity, and community that make Fayetteville unforgettable. You are the reason FAYNC thrives.
This issue would not exist without the incredible creatives and leaders who trusted us with their stories. Special thanks to Wise Mind Movement and Jose Kercado Jr., Mark Mayr, Andre Sansbury Jr., Malkolm Herring, Maurice Curry, Nervous Reck, and guest contributor Rakeem “Keem” Jones for helping shape this 2-6 Special Edition.
Each of you brought your voice, vision, and authenticity to these pages. You didn’t just participate — you helped us make FAYNC shine.
