Perhaps one of the most influential album covers of 2018 is that of J.Cole’s K.O.D which has three separate meanings but one of them stands for “Kids on Drugs.” J.Cole explains how it is difficult now to turn on a TV and not see an ad discussing depression or asking how youth are feeling and directing them to some sort of drug for an escape or gateway to happiness. This must be occurring more in the United States however because I do not recall seeing many of these ads here in Canada. Hammond et al provides an accurate depiction of this as they conducted a study on certain substances and their popularity. J.Cole is considered a conscious rapper and often has lyrics about contemporary issues, the album cover also depicts youths direction towards substances and abuse of drugs. Below are the findings of Hammond et al’s study:
“In 2008, approximately 21% of youth in grades 7-9 reported drinking at least once a month in the past year, 26% reported previous tobacco use, 17% reported trying cannabis, while 13% reported trying another substance, including glue, non-medical use of prescription drugs, hallucinogens, and amphetamines. Compared to 2006, the number of youth in grades 7-9 who reported ever trying glue decreased significantly in 2008, whereas those who reported ever trying MDMA and non-medical use of prescription drugs had increased. Males were significantly more likely to report use for most but not all substances across survey years.”(Hammond et al, 2011, pg 7)
“A considerable portion of Canadians aged 13 to 15 reported experimenting with illegal substances. The findings provide the most comprehensive national trends in substance use among young Canadians.”
(Hammond et al, 2011, pg 7)
The fact that a considerable portion of youth in Canada are experimenting with illegal drugs is concerning. It is essential that as a school system awareness of drug addictions are being spread in order to promote health and bright futures of students. Being the eldest of three children, I see how easy it is to get caught in peer pressure and providing the right guidance is critical. Having positive influencers like J.Cole who has a massive influence is an incredible start to spreading positive messages to youth and steering them in the right direction. Part of this is being honest with what is going on and confronting it face to face and J.Cole is no stranger to doing this with his creative album covers.
A Journey into Adolescent Exploration-EDFE1101 
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