Wu for the Children
Nas & Hit-Boy Lyrics

Yeah
A simple affirmation, setting the tone for what's to follow.

I don't work this hard to be around people I don't like
I put in intense effort into my career, and I prefer to surround myself with those I genuinely appreciate rather than those who do not resonate with me.

Uh, yeah
A brief, emphatic interjection reinforcing the sentiment.

Gotta be a special type nigga to deal with my life
Only someone unique and remarkable can navigate the complexities and challenges of my existence.

Gotta be a special type nigga to feel what I write
To truly understand and connect with my art and emotions expressed through my lyrics, one must possess a certain depth of character.

Special like my classics
My timeless works are exceptional and hold a distinctive quality that sets them apart.

Special like my listeners who have attachments
My devoted fans, who form strong connections to my music and its messages, are equally unique.

To my old style, won't let me past it
Some fans are deeply attached to my earlier sound and may struggle to accept my evolution as an artist.

I don't see the point with weak sayings like
I find no value in shallow remarks or criticisms that lack depth.

"All them niggas on top be blockin,' or never help man, stop it
Statements claiming that successful individuals prevent others from rising or refuse to assist are often misguided.

It's hard watching brothers who smart but think they not
It's painful to see intelligent individuals who are unaware of their true potential.

I need them to realize what they got is a fresh start
I want my peers to recognize that they have opportunities for new beginnings and growth.

That brother that you claim so powerful
The individual you label as influential or strong.

The one you said he has a whole lot of pull
The person you consider to have significant connections or authority.

Probably already tried to pull his brothers up
He has likely made efforts to uplift his peers and support their success.

And got betrayed, got snaked, got played
Despite his good intentions, he has faced treachery, deceit, and manipulation from those he helped.

Meanwhile he balance his challenges, hard to keep himself paid
While managing personal struggles, he finds it difficult to maintain financial stability.

It's so hard for him, even though his talent is God given
His natural abilities don't shield him from life’s hardships; he still experiences difficulties.

Pardon him, stop putting your faults on him
Let's forgive his shortcomings and refrain from blaming him for our own misunderstandings.

What he did to you now?
Reflecting on how he may have wronged you, if at all.

The man in him is bringing the kid in you out
His maturity and presence encourage you to reground yourself and reconnect with your innocence.

You kid him, he still playin' the victim, you weirdin' me out
You tease him, yet he appears to take offense; this confuses me.

That's what my perspective is, maybe 'cause I'm a specialist
This is my viewpoint, possibly shaped by my expertise in life and artistic expression.

Sippin' mixed liquor beverages
Indulging in carefully crafted drinks, perhaps symbolizing celebration or leisure.

Six figure checks are big but eight figure checks and you rich
Earning six figures is substantial, but true wealth comes with making even more—eight figures.

The Nas enthusiasts thinkin' they know what's best for me
Some dedicated fans believe they understand my needs and career choices better than I do.

More than I know what's best for me, no rest for me
They presume to have more insight into my life than I do, yet I remain tirelessly committed to my journey.

Gotta be a special type nigga to deal with my life
Only someone with exceptional qualities can handle the intricacies of my world.

Gotta be a special type nigga to feel what I write
One must possess a unique understanding to connect with the emotions in my lyrics.

Special like my classics
My significant works possess a distinct essence that sets them apart.

Special like my listeners who have attachments
My loyal audience holds a unique bond with my music that enriches its meaning.

To my old style, won't let me past it
My fans' allegiance to my previous style potentially constrains my artistic freedom.

Special
An acknowledgment of uniqueness and value.

Yeah, it's a privilege
This experience and insight, for me, is an honor.

VSOP shit
Referring to something luxurious and of high quality, possibly in the context of spirits.

Special
Reinforcing the theme of rarity and significance.

Very special
Emphasizing that the qualities being addressed are indeed exceptional.

Hit, turn up the sample, we makin' magic
Encouraging collaboration and creativity, leading to something extraordinary in music.

This thing is bigger than I could ever imagine
The impact and scope of this project far exceed my initial expectations.

Duckin' the flashes from the cameras, leave out the back
Avoiding the attention from media and fans, exiting unnoticed.

Jump in the spacecraft, we can't tell where we at
Entering a metaphorical or literal vehicle of creativity or success that propels us into uncharted territories.

Chauffeur drivin' like a high speed chase, trunk full of smack
Being driven at extreme speeds, implying a sense of urgency or danger, possibly referring to illicit goods.

Tallest building in Manhattan
Symbolizing success or elevation, both literally and metaphorically.

Sippin' on Manhattans, listening to The Manhattans
Enjoying a classic cocktail while enjoying the music of a classic group, merging experiences of sophistication and nostalgia.

Queens to Brooklyn, oh, what a feelin'
Expressing a strong sense of pride and nostalgia for the New York boroughs, reflecting a connection to roots.

I should'a had Grammys when Ol' Dirty said, 'Wu for the children'
Regretting missing out on industry recognition despite significant contributions to music, particularly referencing a quote from Ol' Dirty Bastard.

Shoulda did that remix verse on 'Gimme The Loot' for Biggie
A wish for having contributed to a legendary track, highlighting the importance of collaborations with great artists.

Me, Jay and Frank White is like Cole, Drizzy, and Kenny
Drawing parallels between himself, Jay-Z, and The Notorious B.I.G. with today's top artists, showcasing continuity in hip-hop greatness.

One girl for the rest of your life, is that realistic?
Questioning the notion of lifelong monogamy in a world filled with options and temptations.

Some had told me they like when you call 'em all type of bitches
Some individuals seem to enjoy or accept derogatory terms, contradicting expected norms of respect.

Ran through a few of them, some gangsta, some Christian
Reflecting on experiences with diverse personalities—from tough individuals to devoutly religious ones.

Some with a heart full of hate for me, even with a new nigga
Acknowledging that some individuals harbor resentment despite moving on to new relationships.

They label me a sinner because I left with they soul
Being branded negatively for taking away something significant from those I've been involved with.

There's really no other feeling, having that type of control, nigga
Experiencing a powerful sense of authority or influence over one’s life and circumstances.

Gotta be a special type woman to deal with my life
Only a woman of extraordinary strength and understanding can navigate the complexities of my existence.

Gotta be a special type woman to feel what I write
She must possess a deep emotional resonance to truly appreciate my lyrical expressions.

Special like my classics
Alluding to a timeless quality that should be recognized in both the artist's work and in those who appreciate it.

Special like my listeners who have attachments
Fans who form meaningful connections with the artist's work are incredibly significant.

To my old style, won't let me past it
A tribute to the lasting impact of his earlier work which still holds sway over current perceptions.

Gotta be a special type nigga to deal with my life
Reiterating that only a select few can handle the intricacies and pressures that accompany my lifestyle.

Gotta be a special type nigga to feel what I write
Reaffirming the need for a unique mindset to connect with the emotions expressed in my lyrics.

Special like my classics
Echoing the sentiment that my essential works carry a distinctive essence.

Special like my listeners who have attachments
Reemphasizing the rarity and importance of fans who stay devoted to my artistic journey.

To my old style, won't let me past it
Acknowledging that ties to my former artistic expression are essential yet potentially restrictive.

Special
Restating the concept of rarity and significance.

Yeah
A reiteration that emphasizes agreement or enthusiasm.

It's a privilege
Recognizing that the experiences and insights gathered throughout this journey are valuable.

VSOP shit
Continuing the theme of refined quality and luxury.

Special
Reinforcing the overarching theme of uniqueness.

Very special
Highlighting that the subjects discussed are distinctly noteworthy.

Rest in peace ODB, Tahim, Virgil
A heartfelt tribute to friends and influences who have passed, acknowledging their significance.

The Queen, Jacqueline Avant
Honoring a respected figure whose contributions are remembered and celebrated.

Special people
Recognizing and honoring the unique contributions of these individuals to the journey and to culture.