Revenge of the Dreamers III, the 2019 collaborative album from Dreamville Records, isn't just a collection of songs; it's a cultural touchstone. This ambitious project, spearheaded by J. Cole and featuring a sprawling roster of incredibly talented artists, showcases the label's unique blend of soulful introspection, hard-hitting lyricism, and undeniable beats. The album’s creation itself was a unique process, a retreat where artists collaborated intensely, fostering a creative energy palpable in every track. This dedication to artistic synergy resulted in a body of work that transcends typical hip-hop releases, offering a diverse soundscape that's both instantly engaging and rewarding with repeated listens. We've compiled a list of standout tracks, a journey through varied styles, from introspective verses highlighting personal struggles to high-energy anthems brimming with confidence, that truly represent the album’s remarkable breadth and depth.
This list aims to celebrate the enduring impact of Revenge of the Dreamers III, highlighting its influence on the hip-hop landscape and introducing its phenomenal artistry to a wider audience. Whether you're a seasoned Dreamville fan or discovering their music for the first time, you'll find a captivating array of sounds and perspectives within this compilation. The album's legacy rests on its ability to seamlessly blend different artists' unique styles into a cohesive, powerful whole. From the raw emotionality of certain songs to the infectious energy of others, the diversity alone makes it a worthwhile exploration. Dive into the rich tapestry of sounds and stories; you won't be disappointed.
| Song | Artist | Listens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. MIDDLE CHILD | J. Cole | 315M+ |
| 2. Under the Sun |
J. Cole DaBaby Lute | 77M+ |
| 3. Sacrifices |
Smino Saba | 41M+ |
| 4. Down Bad |
JID J. Cole Young Nudy Bas EARTHGANG | 18M+ |
| 5. Costa Rica |
Dreamville Bas Guapdad 4000 Jace Smokepurpp Buddy Ski Mask The Slump God J.I.D Reese King Mez | 13M+ |
| 6. Got Me |
Ty Dolla $ign Dreezy | 8M+ |
| 7. Sleep Deprived |
Mez DaVionne | 5M+ |
1. MIDDLE CHILD
J. Cole's "MIDDLE CHILD" resonated deeply with listeners, achieving significant chart success and amassing millions of streams. The song's popularity stems partly from its relatable lyrics, exploring the feeling of being caught between generations, neither fully embraced by older nor newer artists. Cole's persona as the "quiet kid" who meticulously plans his actions ("writing down names, making a list") added to its appeal, striking a chord with those who felt similarly underestimated. The hard-hitting beat and Cole's masterful flow further cemented the song's impact, making it a defining track in his discography. The song's success highlights the power of relatable themes and a strong, well-executed production.
2. Under the Sun - 2025
"Under the Sun" featuring J. Cole, DaBaby, and Lute, stands out on Revenge of the Dreamers III for its potent blend of lyrical prowess and infectious energy. The track perfectly embodies the album's theme of ambition, showcasing each artist's unique skill and pushing them to deliver their best verses. DaBaby's confident delivery, alongside Lute's sharp wordplay and Cole's insightful commentary, creates a dynamic and memorable listening experience. The song's production is crisp and impactful, ensuring its place among the album's highlights. Frequently cited by fans as a favorite, "Under the Sun" is lauded for its collaborative energy and the undeniable chemistry between the three artists, solidifying its position as one of the album's best tracks. Its inclusion in any "best of" list for Revenge of the Dreamers III is well-deserved due to its exceptional musical quality and its representative nature of the album's overall theme.
3. Sacrifices (Smino ft Saba)
Smino and Saba's "Sacrifices" resonates deeply with listeners, showcasing a profound vulnerability rarely heard in mainstream hip-hop. While lacking major chart success, its impact lies in its emotional honesty and relatability, evidenced by the outpouring of personal responses from fans connecting with its themes. The song explores the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices made for love, reflecting the universal struggle to balance personal aspirations with the demands of commitment. While specific lyrical inspiration remains undisclosed, the song's emotional resonance suggests a deeply personal exploration of these themes, forging a powerful connection with audiences grappling with similar experiences. The track's enduring power stems from its ability to articulate unspoken sentiments, making it a cherished gem within the artists' discography and among their devoted fanbase.
4. Down Bad (JID ft J. Cole ft Young Nudy ft Bas ft EARTHGANG)
Released in 2019 as part of Revenge of the Dreamers III, "Down Bad" unites JID, J. Cole, Young Nudy, Bas, and EARTHGANG in a potent display of collaborative artistry. The track's infectious beat and varied vocal styles create a dynamic soundscape that perfectly encapsulates the album's ambitious spirit. Each artist's verse contributes to a narrative of overcoming hardship and striving for success, mirroring the album's overarching theme of perseverance. J. Cole's verse, in particular, delivers motivational lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. The song's memorable hook and stellar production distinguish it as a standout on the album, earning it widespread critical acclaim and fan-favorite status. Its combination of hard-hitting lyrics, dynamic flow, and undeniable musical quality solidifies "Down Bad" as a quintessential track representing the best of Revenge of the Dreamers III, making it a must-listen for those seeking the album's highlights.
5. Costa Rica
"Costa Rica" a standout track from Revenge of the Dreamers III, showcases the collective talent of Dreamville's expansive roster. The song's infectious energy and expertly blended verses from nine artists—including J.I.D and Ski Mask the Slump God—create a cohesive and surprisingly uncluttered listening experience. Each rapper's unique style contributes to the track's overall success, highlighting the label's commitment to fostering individual artistry while maintaining a unified sound. The song's popularity, though not explicitly charting, stems from its memorable hooks, diverse flows, and the overall celebratory atmosphere it evokes, demonstrating the power of collaborative creativity. Anecdotal evidence suggests strong listener engagement and praise for the song's unique blend of styles.
6Got Me
Ty Dolla $ign,Dreezy
2019
7Sleep Deprived
Mez,DaVionne
2019
81993
Buddy,Smino
2019
9LamboTruck
Cozz, Childish Major, REASON
2019
- 10
Sunset
Young Nudy
2019
- 11
Self Love
Baby Rose
2019
12Don't Hit Me Right Now
Baby Tate,Guapdad 4000,Buddy
2019
- 13
Oh Wow...Swerve
KEY!, Maxo Kream, Zoink Gang
2019
14Swivel
EARTHGANG
2019
15Rembrandt...Run It Back
Vince Staples
2019
- 16
Ladies, Ladies, Ladies
JID,T.I.
2019
17PTSD
Deante' Hitchcock, Mereba, St. Beauty
2019