“1985” is representative of the year J. Cole was born. When combined with 2014 Forest Hills Drive’s “January 28th,” Cole’s entire birthday is in his discography.

The song is a message to up-and-coming rappers, warning them about the realities of the rap game and advising them on how to maintain success. Cole adopts the tone of an older, more experienced mentor. The song is interpreted as targeting a multitude of new rappers, including Lil Pump, Smokepurpp, and 6ix9ine, among others. He compares his experiences to theirs, responding to their sometimes senseless actions with the wish that they learn from their recklessness, just as he did when he was their age.

The song concludes the story of KOD and is an introduction to Cole’s next album, The Fall Off.