Illmatic was a critically acclaimed bestseller and is widely considered one of the greatest rap albums of all time. He married R&B singer Kelis in 2005, they have one son together, and she filed for divorce on the 29th of April 2009. Nas was also a part of hip hop supergroup The Firm, which released one album.
In the years following the release of Illmatic, Nas pursued a more commercial direction, which resulted in wider success but decreased artistic credibility among critics and hip-hop purists. Furthermore, Nas' increased commercial success was accompanied by stylistic changes that fostered accusations of "selling out". Nevertheless, the LP Stillmatic is often credited for restoring Nas' credibility among fans. Since the success of Stillmatic, Nas continues to maintain a high profile within the hip hop community, and has pursued a decidedly progressive and personal aesthetic. While Nas' current artistic direction differs greatly from his most successful work, it has ensured that he remains one of the most respected and acclaimed contemporary rappers.
1973–1992: Childhood and early career
Nas was born in Brooklyn, New York, as the elder of Olu Dara and Fannie Ann Jones's two children; his brother Jabari (nicknamed "Jungle" because he was born in the Congo) is the younger of the two. The family lived for a time in Brooklyn, before moving to Queensbridge, the largest public housing project in the United States. Olu Dara left the household in 1986, when Nas was 13, and Ann Jones raised her two boys on her own. Nas dropped out of school in the eighth grade and began selling drugs on the streets of New York. He educated himself, reading about African culture and civilization, the Qur'an, the Bible and the Five Percent Nation. He also studied the origin of hip hop music, taping records that played on his local radio station. As a child, Nas had wanted to be an instrumentalist (at the age of three, Nas played his father's trumpet on the step of their Brooklyn home) and also a comic book artist. Shortly after his parents separated, Nas began to write short stories as he immersed himself deeper into hip-hop culture.
By his preteen years, he had settled on pursuing a career as a rapper, and as a teenager enlisted his best friend and upstairs neighbor Willie "Ill Will" Graham as his DJ. Nas first went by the nickname Kid Wave before adopting his more commonly known alias of Nasty Nas. Nas and Graham soon met hip-hop producer and Flushing Queens resident Large Professor, who introduced Nas to his group, Main Source. In 1991, Nas made his on-record debut with a verse on "Live at the BBQ", from Main Source's LP Breaking Atoms. Despite the substantial buzz for Nas in the underground scene, the rapper was rejected by major labels and was not signed to a recording deal. Nas and Graham continued to work together, but their partnership was cut short when Graham was shot and killed by a gunman in Queensbridge on May 23, 1992.
1992–1995: The recording and release of Illmatic
In mid-1992, Nas was approached by MC Serch of 3rd Bass, who became his manager and secured Nas a record deal with Columbia Records the same year. Nas made his solo debut on the single "Halftime" from Serch's soundtrack for the film Zebrahead. The single increased the buzz surrounding Nas and when MC Serch’s solo album is released later in the year, Nas’ standout appearance on "Back To The Grill" only intensified interest in his upcoming album, amid immense anticipation. Hailed as the second coming of Rakim, his rhyming skills attracted a significant amount of attention within the hip-hop community. However, many were concerned that Columbia, being a major label, would try to dilute his New York based style.
In 1994, Nas' debut album, Illmatic was finally released. Critically acclaimed and widely regarded as one of the premier rap albums ever created, Illmatic featured lyrics that portrayed stunning visual imagery and production courtesy of several producers . The album featured production from Large Professor, Pete Rock, Q-Tip (of A Tribe Called Quest) and DJ Premier, as well as guest appearances from Nas' friend AZ and his father Olu Dara on the song "Life's a Bitch", Illmatic was immediately hailed as a masterpiece by critics, and is still highly regarded as one of the definitive hip-hop albums of all time. Notable songs on the album included "NY State of Mind" (produced by Premier), "The World Is Yours" (produced by Pete Rock), "One Love" (produced by Q-Tip) and "It Ain't Hard To Tell" (produced by Large Professor and featuring a sample of "Human Nature" by Michael Jackson). However, due in part to extensive bootlegging, the record sales fell below expectations.
Following Illmatic, Nas appeared on AZ's Doe Or Die album, and collaborated with his Queensbridge-associates, Mobb Deep, on their album, The Infamous. One notable achievement during this period was Nas' verse on "Verbal Intercourse" on Raekwon's Only Built 4 Cuban Linx. After this appearance, Nas received a Source Quotable as he had the distinction of being the only non-Wu-Tang Clan member to be featured on one of the group's solo albums.
1996–1998: From It Was Written to The Firm
Columbia began to press Nas to work towards more commercial topics like the rapper The Notorious B.I.G., who had become successful by releasing street singles that still retained pop-friendly appeal. Nas traded manager MC Serch for Steve Stoute, and began preparation for his second LP, It Was Written, consciously working towards a crossover-oriented sound. It Was Written, chiefly produced by Poke and Tone of Trackmasters Entertainment, was released during the summer of 1996. Two singles, "If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)" (featuring Lauryn Hill of The Fugees) and "Street Dreams" (a remix features R. Kelly) were instant hits. These songs were promoted by big-budget music videos directed by Hype Williams, making Nas a common name among mainstream hip-hop. Other notable tracks on the album included "The Message" and "I Gave You Power," which tells a story from the perspective of a gun. It Was Written also featured the debut of The Firm, a supergroup consisting of Nas, AZ, Foxy Brown, and Cormega. The album also introduced Nas's Mafioso-inspired character "Nas Escobar", who lived more of a Scarface/Casino-esque lifestyle. On the other hand, Illmatic, which, while having numerous references to Tony Montana and the theatrical hit featuring Al Pacino, was more about Nas' life as a teenager in the projects, hustling and smoking marijuana.
The Firm signed to Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment label, and began working on their debut album. Halfway through the production of the album, Cormega was fired from the group by Steve Stoute, who had unsuccessfully attempted to force Cormega to sign a deal with his management company. Cormega therefore became one of Nas' most vocal opponents, releasing a number of underground hip-hop singles dissing Nas, Stoute, and Nature, who was Cormega's replacement in The Firm. The Firm's The Album was finally released in 1997 to mixed reviews and lackluster sales and the members of the supergroup went their separate ways.
At about this time, Nas became a spokesperson for the Willie Esco urban clothing line, but had no other connection with the clothing line. He stopped promoting Willie Esco in 2000, dissatisfied with the company's operations. During the same period, Nas co-wrote and starred in Hype Williams' 1998 feature film Belly, which also featured DMX, Taral Hicks, and T-Boz of TLC among its cast.
1998–2000: I Am... to Nastradamus
In 1998, Nas began work on a double album to be entitled I Am...The Autobiography, which he intended as the middle ground between the extremes of Illmatic and It Was Written. The album was completed in early 1999, and a music video was shot for its lead single, Nas Is Like, produced by DJ Premier and featuring vocal samples from "It Ain't Hard to Tell". However, much of the LP was leaked in MP3 format onto the Internet, and Nas and Stoute quickly recorded enough substitute material to constitute a single-disc release.
The second single for I Am was "Hate Me Now," featuring Sean "Puffy" Combs (now "Diddy"), was used as an example by Nas' critics for moving towards commercial themes. Hype Williams shot an allegorical video for the single, which featured Nas and Puffy being crucified in a manner similar to Jesus; After the video was completed, Combs, a Catholic, requested his crucifixion scene be edited out of the video. However, the unedited copy of the "Hate Me Now" video made its way to MTV, and was premiered on April 15, 1999 on TRL. A furious Combs and his bodyguards allegedly made their way into Steve Stoute's office and assaulted him, at one point apparently hitting Stoute over the head with a champagne bottle. Stoute pressed charges, but he and Combs settled out-of-court that June.
Columbia had scheduled to release the pirated material from I Am under the title Nastradamus during the latter half of 1999, but, at the last minute, decided Nas should record an entirely new album for release. Nastradamus was therefore rushed to meet a November release date. Though critics were not kind to the album, it did result in a minor hit, the Timbaland-produced "You Owe Me," featuring R&B singer Ginuwine. The only pirated track from I Am... to make it onto Nastradamus was "Project Windows," featuring Ronald Isley. A number of the other bootlegged tracks later made their way onto The Lost Tapes, a collection of underground Nas songs that was released by Columbia in September 2002. The collection saw decent sales and received glowing reviews.
2000–2001: The Nas vs. Jay-Z rivalry and Stillmatic
The highly publicized rivalry between Nas and Jay-Z began as a rivalry between Nas and Jay-Z's protege, Memphis Bleek. On his debut album Coming of Age, Bleek made a song entitled "Memphis Bleek Is", which was similar in concept to Nas' single "Nas is Like". On the same album, Bleek recorded "What You Think Of That" featuring Bleek's mentor Jay-Z, which contains the refrain, "I'ma ball 'til I fall/what you think of that?". In retaliation, "Nastradamus", the title track from Nas' second 1999 album, featured a reference to "What You Think Of That". The lyrics state, "You wanna ball till you fall, I can help you with that/You want beef? I could let a slug melt in your hat." Memphis Bleek perceived the reference on "Nastradamus" as a diss, and therefore dissed Nas on the lead single for his The Understanding LP, My Mind Right".
QB's Finest was a compilation album that featured Nas and a number of other rappers from Queensbridge, including Mobb Deep, Nature, Littles, The Bravehearts (which included Nas' younger brother Jungle among its members), and Cormega, who had briefly reconciled with Nas. The album also featured guest appearances from Queensbridge hip-hop legends Roxanne Shante, MC Shan, and Marley Marl. Shan and Marley Marl both appeared on the lead single "Da Bridge 2001", which was based on Shan & Marl's 1986 recording "The Bridge". "Da Bridge 2001" also featured a response from Nas to Memphis Bleek, in which Nas called out most of the Roc-A-Fella Records roster, including Bleek, Damon Dash, Beanie Sigel, and Jay-Z.
Jay-Z responded to Nas' songs with an onstage swipe during the 2001 Hot 97 Summer Jam concert in New York City, when he premiered his song "Takeover." Initially, the song was to only be a Mobb Deep diss, only including one line about Nas near the end. Nevertheless, Nas recorded the "Stillmatic Freestyle," an underground single which sampled Rakim and Eric B.'s "Paid in Full" beat, and attacked Jay-Z and his Roc-A-Fella label. On his 2001 album, The Blueprint, Jay-Z rewrote "Takeover," dedicating half of the song to dissing Nas, claiming that he had a "...one hot album every ten year average" record (referring to Illmatic) that his flow was weak, and that he had fabricated his past as a hustler.
Nas responded with "Ether", the track begins with gunshots and a repeated, slowed-down sample of Tupac rapping "Fuck Jay-Z." (taken from Tupac's "Fuck Friends") In "Ether," Nas accuses Jay-Z of stealing ("biting") lyrics from The Notorious B.I.G. and brown-nosing Nas and other rappers for fame. Ether was included on Nas' fifth studio album, Stillmatic, released in December 2001. Stillmatic managed to be not only a critically-acclaimed comeback album, but a commercial success as well, albeit not on the level of It Was Written and I Am...; the album debutted at #7 on the Billboard album charts and featured the singles "Got Ur Self A..." and "One Mic." In terms of commercial success, Jay's The Blueprint was certified double-platinum, while Stillmatic went platinum.
Jay-Z responded to "Ether" with a freestyle entitled "Supa Ugly." going into detail about how he had sex with Carmen Bryan, the mother of Nas' daughter Destiny. Nas dismissed the track by claiming that he was no longer with Bryan during the time the affair took place. In a recent interview, however, New York radio station Hot 97 settled the battle taking votes comparing "Ether" and "Supa Ugly," and Nas won with 58% while Jay-Z got 42% of the votes. By 2005, the two rappers had eventually ended their feud without violence or animosity. During Jay-Z's I Declare War - Power House concert, Jay-Z announced to the crowd, "It's bigger than 'I Declare War'. Let's go, Esco!" Nas then joined Jay-Z onstage, and the two then performed "Dead Presidents" together, which Jay-Z had sampled from Nas' song "The World is Yours."
2002–Present: From God's Son to Street's Disciple and beyond
In December 2002, Nas released the God's Son album. and its lead single, "Made You Look". The album debuted at #18 on the Billboard charts despite widespread internet bootlegging. Time Magazine named his album best hip-hop album of the year. Vibe Magazine gave it 4 stars and The Source gave it 4 mics. The second single, the inspirational "I Can", which reworked elements from Beethoven's "Fur Elise", became Nas' biggest hit to date during the spring and summer of 2003, garnering substantial radio airplay on urban, rhythmic, and top 40 radio stations, as well as on the MTV and VH1 music video networks. God's Son also includes several songs dedicated to memory of Nas' mother, who died of cancer in 2002. In 2003, Nas was featured on the Korn song "Play Me", from KoЯn's Take a Look in the Mirror LP.
Nas released his seventh studio album, the critically acclaimed double-disc Street's Disciple, on November 30, 2004. The album's first singles were "Thief's Theme" and "Bridging the Gap", which features his father Olu Dara on vocals. The album also includes "These are Our Heroes", which accuses prominent sports stars and actors such as Kobe Bryant, Lenny Henry, Tiger Woods, and Cuba Gooding, Jr. of neglecting their heritage and background in favour of white values. The videos for "Bridging the Gap" and "Just A Moment" received moderate airplay on MTV and BET. Although the album went platinum, its commercial profile was relatively low compared to the rapper's previous releases.
Nas was featured on Kanye West's album Late Registration on a song titled "We Major". West said the song was Jay-Z's favorite on the album, but West was unable to get Jay-Z to record a vocal for the final mix of the song. He also appeared on Damian Marley's song "Road to Zion" (which also featured newcomer The Game in the video, widening Nas' still growing universally appreciated raps) and several other songs such as "Death Anniversary" and "It Wasn't You" (featuring Lauryn Hill). In addition, Nas was most recently married to the R&B singer Kelis, who is mostly known for her work internationally, but nonetheless released great hits in the U.S. The couple wed on Jan. 8, 2005 in Atlanta, GA, after a two-year engagement.
During this time, Nas announced that his next album would be entirely self-produced and feature no other rappers, and would be titled Nasir, and later that the project would feature other producers after all and would be called Nasdaq: Dow Jones. Neither of these albums ever materialized.
At a free concert in Central Park, New York, Nas made a statement regarding the quality of 50 Cent's music. "this is the real shit, not that 50 Cent shit!" In response, 50 Cent included a stab at Nas by speaking negatively of his wife Kelis on his single "Piggy Bank," implying that Kelis was promiscuous and calling Nas a "sucker for love." Nas was quoted as saying that he feels no obligation to retaliate, remarking "[50 has] got a good five to six more albums before I can really respond to him." Nas eventually decided to retaliate, and in July 2005 released "Don't Body Ya Self (MC Burial)", a song which taunts 50 Cent and his G-Unit crew, stating that 50 was "a sucka for death if I'm a sucka for love." However, despite all of this, Nas still claims to "have a lot of love towards 50," claiming 50 didn't understand his moves when they both were together at Columbia Records.
In January 2006, Nas signed a label deal with Jay-Z's Def Jam, further emphasizing the Jay-Z/Nas truce and raising expectations for a collaboration even higher. His album due in fall of 2006 will come out in a joint deal with this imprint and Columbia Records. He recently announced to MTV News that his album is to be named, "Hip Hop is Dead...the N," the N being a play on the word the "end." The title is supposed to reflect what some would term the current low quality of rap music. The highly anticipated album is due out in December 19th, 2006.
Musical style and Technique
Nas has long been famed for his creativity and storytelling prowess, which has earned him acclaim from both the hip-hop community and critics. In his early stages, from his first appearance on the Main Source's Breaking Atoms and throughout the recording of Illmatic, he was perhaps best known for his street-oriented topics, complex lyrical schemes (which often incorporated multi-syllabic internal rhymes), and witty phrasing and imagery. As he progressed and matured, Nas began to branch out into different subjects and developed a richer voice and slower rapping technique.
Following Illmatic's release, Nas developed a penchant for hyper-visual storytelling and topical creativity. For instance, "Undying Love" (featured on I Am...) is a tale of his wife's betrayal told in first person, "Rewind" (featured on Stillmatic) is a narrative in which a story is recited backwards, while on "I Gave You Power" (featured on It Was Written), Nas assumes the role of a gun who recounts brutal tales of murder and violence. Over the years Nas' style has changed significantly. In contrast to his previous work, Nas’ most recent material is distinctively socially aware and often politically inflammatory. Songs such as "I Can" (featured on God's Son) convey moral messages of black youth empowerment, while "These Are Our Heroes (Coon Picnic)" accuses several African-American celebrities of being Uncle Toms. Furthermore, controversial songs such as "My Country" and "A Message to the Feds (Fuck The Police II)" (which are featured on Stillmatic and Street's Disciple, respectively) question the conduct of the American government. Nas' views in his lyrics throughout his career have made references to Islam and the Five Percent Nation..
Real Niggas
Nas Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Look at the life that I've been through
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Look at the life that I've been through
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Y'all don't know about my Biggie wars
Who you thought "Kick In The Door" was for?
But that's my heart, y'all still tripping off the Jigga shit
Real niggas listen up and I'mma tell you how the whole thing start
Off top I brung Queens up from hard times
Rocking at the Fever, streets was all mine
It was my version of the blues, dropping out schools
The crack epidemic had rap representing the rules
So I got in them shoes, tried 'em, wore them
Wasn't a perfect fit so I couldn't sport 'em
Young murderers ride, I knew all them
Jungle got shot, Will died, we was warring
I wrote it in my album
I was 18 when Lake seen the Island, and Lord held me down and
My surroundings started changing, I had a baby
I was making my rounds with AZ
Niggas started noticing my flow and was open when
The Golden Child closed 'em in with more style than them older men
Puff tried to start a label, Prince Rakeem had formed Wu-Tang
Snoop and Dre had a new thing
So Puff drove his new Range through Queensbridge Projects
He let me drive it, before Ready To Die hit
Big and I hit blunts performing at the Ark
Next thing you knew, Big blew and all the balling starts
He had Kim in his crew, I found Fox
Only niggas in New York with number one charts
Big was ahead of his time, him and Raekwon my niggas
But dig it, they couldn't get along
That's when Ghostface said it on the purple tape
Bad Boy biting Nas album cover way
Big told me Rae was stealing my slang
And Rae told me out in Shaolin, Big would do the same thing
But I borrowed from both them niggas
Jigga started to flow like us, but hit with "Ain't No Nigga"
Had much Versace swagger
Big admired the Brooklynite and took him in as Iceberg the rapper
Today don't know nothing, about this boss shit
There's more shit than wanting to be this King of New York shit
Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Look at the life that I've been through
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Look at the life that I've been through
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Rap became a version of Malcom and Martin
Rest In Peace Will, Queensbridge live on
There's some ghetto secrets I can't rhyme in this song
There's some missing pieces I had to leave out
Had lost trust for Steve Stoute at some point til I got to know him
We old friends, but what's loyal? Puff soaked Interscope offices
With champagne bottles on Steve, and Steve thought the drama's on me
Cause previously it would have been, against whoever
Friends forever
However, I learn, with some niggas it's all business
But I'm a street dude with morals
Then this nigga's with Jigga too much, he used to say Jay wanted my spot
I laughed, stayed home, never hung a lot
A quiet man who used to be alone planning
Baby moms thought I was too quiet, couldn't stand it
She hit the streets, later on she hitting the sheets
With a rapper who wanted me on his songs, thinking he strong
I taught her how to watch for cars who might follow
Taught her street shit that I know
Her weakness was shine yo
But that's her, I ain't mad baby, it made me stronger
Now I get my paper longer
Illmatic I was boss, It Was Written I flossed
One of the most creative LPs ever to hit stores
In the Firm I learned I Am NaStradamus
QB's Finest, Oochie Wally, faced more problems
I gave it all up so I can chill at home with mama
She was getting old and sick so I stayed beside her
We had the best times, she asked would I make more songs
I told her not til I see her health get more strong
In the middle of that, Jay tried to sneak attack
Assassinate my character, degrade my hood
Cause in order for him to be the Don, Nas had to go
The Gam-B-I-N-O rules I understood
What y'all want, see, I already had
The Gift and The Curse? Fuck that shit, the first shall be last
I'm the man's man, a rapper's rapper
G-O-D S-O-N, they'll be none after
I was Scarface, Jay was Manolo
It hurt me when I had to kill him and his whole squad for dolo
Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Look at the life that I've been through
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Look at the life that I've been through
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Nas's "Last Real Nigga Alive" is a reflective song that takes the listener through the rapper's personal history, competitive feuds, and the current state of the hip-hop industry. Nas introduces himself as the last real MC who's survived and endured the violent lifestyles of Queensbridge, as he reminisces on the legacy of his artistry. The opening line of the song “Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ” is an expression of relief, prayer, and gratitude for making it thus far, given the obstacles he had to overcome. The song's chorus, "I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official," establishes Nas's dominance in a genre that he has dedicated his life to.
Throughout the song, Nas refers to his influences, his early career, and the challenges he's faced. He recounts greats that have influenced his style, such as Biggie Smalls, Raekwon, and Ghostface Killah, while discussing his own contribution to the art form such as "Illmatic" and "It Was Written." He speaks candidly about the disputes between him and Jay-Z, and other rivalries in the industry. In "Last Real Nigga Alive," Nas establishes himself as a hip-hop legend who's steeped in the genre's culture while acknowledging his place in history.
Overall, "Last Real Nigga Alive" is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and creativity of Nas. His experience, accomplishments, setbacks, and contributions to the hip-hop genre serve as a historical marker of a culture that's become synonymous with American music
Line by Line Meaning
Lord have mercy, Jesus Christ
Expressing shock and disbelief at the situations described in the song.
He's just nice, he just slice like a ginsu
Acknowledging the skill and talent of a particular individual.
Look at the life that I've been through
Highlighting the difficult and challenging experiences that the artist has faced.
I'm the last real nigga alive, that's official
Emphasizing the artist's authenticity and his belief that he represents the true essence of hip-hop.
Y'all don't know about my Biggie wars
Explaining that the artist had personal conflicts with Biggie Smalls.
Who you thought 'Kick In The Door' was for?
Questioning the audience's understanding of the meaning behind the song 'Kick In The Door.'
But that's my heart, y'all still tripping off the Jigga shit
Expressing frustration that people are still focused on Jay-Z's actions instead of understanding the artist's personal connection and battles.
Real niggas listen up and I'mma tell you how the whole thing start
Directing his message towards those who truly understand the struggles and experiences of the streets.
Off top I brung Queens up from hard times
Claiming responsibility for uplifting the community of Queens from difficult times.
Rocking at the Fever, streets was all mine
Recalling his early days performing at the Fever, a popular club, and asserting his dominance in the streets.
It was my version of the blues, dropping out schools
Comparing his experiences and the hardships of his community to the struggles expressed in blues music.
The crack epidemic had rap representing the rules
Explaining how the crack epidemic of the time influenced the subject matter and themes of rap music.
So I got in them shoes, tried 'em, wore them
Indicating that the artist engaged in the street life and experienced the consequences firsthand.
Wasn't a perfect fit so I couldn't sport 'em
Acknowledging that the lifestyle he adopted wasn't a perfect fit for him, preventing him from fully embracing it.
Young murderers ride, I knew all them
Claiming familiarity with and knowledge of young individuals involved in criminal activities.
Jungle got shot, Will died, we was warring
Referencing specific individuals who were involved in conflicts and violence.
I wrote it in my album
Referring to his personal experiences and struggles that were documented in his music.
I was 18 when Lake seen the Island, and Lord held me down and
Recounting a personal experience where he was supported and protected by a higher power.
My surroundings started changing, I had a baby
Describing the shift in the artist's life circumstances and responsibilities after becoming a father.
I was making my rounds with AZ
Detailing the artist's collaborations and connections within the music industry.
Niggas started noticing my flow and was open when
Highlighting the recognition and attention the artist received for his unique style and skills.
The Golden Child closed 'em in with more style than them older men
Asserting that the artist's talent and creativity surpassed that of older and more established artists.
Puff tried to start a label, Prince Rakeem had formed Wu-Tang
Referring to the establishment of musical projects by Puff Daddy and RZA (Prince Rakeem) during that time.
Snoop and Dre had a new thing
Discussing the emergence of Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre with a unique musical style.
So Puff drove his new Range through Queensbridge Projects
Recounting an incident where Puff Daddy drove his luxury car through the Queensbridge housing projects.
He let me drive it, before Ready To Die hit
Revealing that Puff Daddy allowed the artist to drive the car before the release of The Notorious B.I.G.'s album 'Ready to Die.'
Big and I hit blunts performing at the Ark
Recalling a shared experience of smoking marijuana with The Notorious B.I.G. while performing at a venue called The Ark.
Next thing you knew, Big blew and all the balling starts
Describing the rise of The Notorious B.I.G. to fame and success.
He had Kim in his crew, I found Fox
Noting the presence of Lil' Kim in The Notorious B.I.G.'s group while the artist found Foxy Brown for his own collaborations.
Only niggas in New York with number one charts
Highlighting the artist's and The Notorious B.I.G.'s success in achieving number one hits in New York.
Big was ahead of his time, him and Raekwon my niggas
Recognizing The Notorious B.I.G.'s and Raekwon's talent and their friendship with the artist.
But dig it, they couldn't get along
Explaining that there was friction and conflicts between The Notorious B.I.G. and Raekwon.
That's when Ghostface said it on the purple tape
Referring to a statement made by Ghostface Killah on the album 'Only Built 4 Cuban Linx...' which addressed the tensions between The Notorious B.I.G. and Raekwon.
Bad Boy biting Nas album cover way
Accusing Bad Boy Records of copying Nas' album cover style.
Big told me Rae was stealing my slang
Informing the artist that Raekwon was using his unique language and expressions.
And Rae told me out in Shaolin, Big would do the same thing
Revealing a conversation with Raekwon where he accused The Notorious B.I.G. of similar actions.
But I borrowed from both them niggas
Admitting to taking inspiration from both The Notorious B.I.G. and Raekwon.
Jigga started to flow like us, but hit with 'Ain't No Nigga'
Commenting on Jay-Z's similarities in style to the artist and acknowledging his hit song 'Ain't No Nigga.'
Had much Versace swagger
Recognizing Jay-Z's fashionable and confident persona.
Big admired the Brooklynite and took him in as Iceberg the rapper
Noting The Notorious B.I.G.'s admiration for Jay-Z and his decision to support and collaborate with him on his debut album 'Reasonable Doubt.'
Today don't know nothing, about this boss shit
Expressing frustration with current artists who don't understand the essence and complexities of the rap game.
There's more shit than wanting to be this King of New York shit
Highlighting the multitude of challenges and responsibilities that come with being a rapper, beyond simply striving to be the 'King of New York.'
Rap became a version of Malcolm and Martin
Drawing a comparison between the influence and impact of rap music with the legacies of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.
Rest In Peace Will, Queensbridge live on
Paying tribute to a deceased individual and affirming the continued importance and relevance of Queensbridge, a neighborhood in New York City.
There's some ghetto secrets I can't rhyme in this song
Acknowledging the existence of undisclosed or sensitive information about the artist's experiences in the ghetto that cannot be shared in the song.
There's some missing pieces I had to leave out
Referring to certain aspects or details of the story that the artist intentionally left undisclosed or omitted from the song.
Had lost trust for Steve Stoute at some point til I got to know him
Explaining that the artist had initially lost trust in Steve Stoute, but eventually developed a better understanding of him.
We old friends, but what's loyal?
Reflecting on a long-standing friendship and questioning the concept and definition of loyalty.
Puff soaked Interscope offices with champagne bottles on Steve, and Steve thought the drama's on me
Recounting an incident where Puff Daddy caused a disturbance at Interscope Records' offices, resulting in Steve Stoute incorrectly assuming the artist was involved.
Cause previously it would have been, against whoever
Asserting that in the past, the artist would have been prepared to confront anyone involved in such drama.
Friends forever
Stating the artist's belief in lifelong friendships.
However, I learn, with some niggas it's all business
Acknowledging that some individuals prioritize business over personal relationships.
But I'm a street dude with morals
Reinforcing the artist's identity as someone rooted in the streets but still guided by a moral code.
Then this nigga's with Jigga too much, he used to say Jay wanted my spot
Accusing a certain individual of spending too much time with Jay-Z and spreading rumors about Jay-Z wanting to replace the artist.
I laughed, stayed home, never hung a lot
Responding to the rumors with humor, choosing to stay away from extensive socializing.
A quiet man who used to be alone planning
Describing the artist's contemplative and reserved nature, spending time alone while strategizing and plotting his moves.
Baby moms thought I was too quiet, couldn't stand it
Revealing that the mother of his child found his quiet demeanor unbearable.
She hit the streets, later on she hitting the sheets
Explaining that she chose to engage in a promiscuous lifestyle after leaving the artist.
With a rapper who wanted me on his songs, thinking he strong
Referring to a fellow rapper who desired a collaboration with the artist, mistakenly believing it would boost his status and credibility.
I taught her how to watch for cars who might follow
Acknowledging that he had taught her to be cautious and aware of potential dangers.
Taught her street shit that I know
Informing that he had educated her about the realities of street life based on his own experiences.
Her weakness was shine yo
Highlighting that her vulnerability or inclination was to pursue material wealth and attention.
But that's her, I ain't mad baby, it made me stronger
Accepting and not holding resentment towards her decisions, acknowledging that those experiences ultimately made him stronger.
Now I get my paper longer
Asserting that he has become more successful and financially stable in the present.
Illmatic I was boss, It Was Written I flossed
Referring to his first two albums, 'Illmatic' representing his dominance in the rap game, and 'It Was Written' showcasing his more extravagant and flashy lifestyle.
One of the most creative LPs ever to hit stores
Claiming his album 'It Was Written' as one of the most innovative and groundbreaking projects in the history of rap music.
In the Firm I learned I Am NaStradamus
Highlighting his involvement in the group 'The Firm' and recognizing his growth and evolution as an artist with the album 'I Am...'.
QB's Finest, Oochie Wally, faced more problems
Referring to various projects he participated in and recognizing that he encountered additional challenges along the way.
I gave it all up so I can chill at home with mama
Explaining that he sacrificed certain opportunities to prioritize spending time with his mother at home.
She was getting old and sick so I stayed beside her
Expressing the artist's dedication and support for his aging and ill mother.
We had the best times, she asked would I make more songs
Reflecting on the positive memories shared with his mother and her desire for him to continue making music.
I told her not til I see her health get more strong
Promising to prioritize his mother's well-being and not resume his music career until she becomes healthier.
In the middle of that, Jay tried to sneak attack
Recalling an incident where Jay-Z attempted to undermine or betray the artist's position or reputation.
Assassinate my character, degrade my hood
Accusing Jay-Z of attempting to tarnish the artist's reputation and disrespect his neighborhood.
Cause in order for him to be the Don, Nas had to go
Suggesting that Jay-Z aimed to become the dominant figure in rap and saw the artist as a threat.
The Gam-B-I-N-O rules I understood
Referring to a set of principles or codes that the artist comprehended and adhered to.
What y'all want, see, I already had
Asserting that he has already achieved the success and recognition that others desire.
The Gift and The Curse? Fuck that shit, the first shall be last
Rejecting the idea of the duality of success and loss and instead asserting that the artist will reclaim his position as a leader.
I'm the man's man, a rapper's rapper
Describing himself as a respected figure among men and a skilled artist within the rap community.
G-O-D S-O-N, they'll be none after
Referring to himself as the 'God's son' and asserting that there will be no others like him in the future.
I was Scarface, Jay was Manolo
Drawing a comparison between himself and the character Scarface, while identifying Jay-Z as a counterpart similar to Manolo, both from the film 'Carlito's Way.'
It hurt me when I had to kill him and his whole squad for dolo
Metaphorically expressing the emotional impact of overcoming and surpassing Jay-Z and his associates in the rap game, achieving success independently.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Y, ANTHONY BEST, NASIR JONES, RONDELL EDWIN TURNER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
P D
@Lorenzo Lion So you saying NY was more dangerous than say Detroit, LA, New Orleans in the late 80's and early 90's?!?!
I'd look up the statistics on that, also If they had so many cameras, wheres the footage at?
Pac came thru at the peak of the E/W conflict in enemy territory and straight up told NAS, I got a record where im dissing you, Biggie, Jay-Z and if you got love for me you wont say anything...
And NAS accepted that.
So save all that rah rah stuff.
The man got Wu Tangs chain back for them.
Also, Pac came back to the same place he was previously shot at.
DMX was a real one.
NAS, Jay & BIG were studio dons. BIG JAY & NAS were/are master's of their crafts Lyrically, but they were not about that life.
Pacs life is well documented.
He had them shook.
Pacific Heights
It's actually a weird diss but kind clever when you think about it. Nas was talking about himself on the
"From tube socks to timbs,
To blue rocks and Benz,
Who got the ends,
The type of nigga, that Tupac pretends,"
There's three ways you can interpret that line,
1. He's saying Tupac is flat out fake
2. He's saying Tupac is trying to be him
3. He's saying he lives the life of the characters Pac plays out in his movies
The third one is the clever part which kind shares the line between subliminal and a misunderstanding.
K-Riz Music
This a light tap by Nasir.
cheeb87
@Net CC when did I jock anyone?
Michael Williams
@Net CC He didn't say anything about Nas?
Net CC
@cheeb87 says the guy jocking nas
cheeb87
@Diane V shut up Stan.
Diane V
F^%$ Nas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! All Pac had to do was raise his voice and it would be better than this bs Nas song
Kmac LA
Refreshing to hear real music again.
Jonas Halvorsen
@Diane V ok Diane
Christian Enoch
@Diane V ok Diane
Diane V
This is not real music. This is weak bs.