Lyric Riffs

This deep in Nas’ pedigree has been firmly established, but it wasn’t always that way. He had to slowly make his way up the mountain, and he’s stayed true to his vision through self-discipline and practice. His ascent was possible through a series of well calculated moves, a game of chess that has demanded his full attention. He’s made it, but had to fight every step of the way.

Nas’ ability to capture the small moments is what’s separated him from his contemporaries. He can pull inspiration from anywhere because he always has his radar up. It’s a skill that informs his writing and he’s looking to keep those legs fresh. By appreciating the small moments he’s able to slow down and absorb the environment around him, a zen state of mind that has defined his career.

No mistaking the thesis: cops are hunting black people and not even the kids are safe. Nas scales back and delivers a straightforward rap. Not much has changed since Emmett Till and it’s why Colin Kaepernick has taken it upon himself to bring awareness to the masses. Kanye kicks a solid verse, but in the end it’s the samples of Slick Rick and Richard Pryor that provide the necessary backup.

Nas gets biblical and flips through the pages of his genesis. He’s telling stories of his upbringing and reminding himself that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. He’s a product of his environment, but it was his ability to rise above while never forgetting that has made all the difference. Knowledge is power and he’s accrued a wealth of it by keeping his eyes and ears open.

Nas offers up a simple formula for success. Whenever adversity enters the equation a person has to take it and transform it into something meaningful. The transference of energy is invigorating and provides a boost when things get stagnant. For Nas the criticism fueled his fire and propelled him to new heights, a situation that demanded that he dig deep and be his own source of inspiration.

As a master storyteller Nas has taken listeners all over the world and now he’s decided to stop in the south of France to enjoy the fruits of his labor. While there he decides to soak in the glory, but still can’t help but think about how far he’s come. Never in his wildest dreams could he have imagined this level of success, and he’s making sure that he maintains perspective throughout it all.

Nas kicks off his eleventh studio album by reasserting his core values, the ones he’s stuck by for the length of his career. It can be taken in multiple ways: he’s been able to thrive despite his style not being radio friendly, and he’s dropping the type of knowledge that would shock the mainstream. It’s never been about the glitz and glamour, but rather the pursuit of knowledge and excellence.

Nasir Jones takes a stroll down memory lane and finds value in all the simple things in life. It sounds like an old man thing to do and it is, which is Nas’ way of celebrating a career come full circle. His journey is putting him in a grateful mood, but he’s also leaving nuggets of wisdom so his kids will have an idea on how to navigate life when things get tough. He’s also talking about artistic integrity and how it’s important to maintain your principles. The beat is stripped down and the tempo is set at a mild pace, which is a cakewalk for Nas who unfurls his rhyme book yet again like it were an ancient Sanskrit scroll.

One of the sauciest divas in the game prepares her super king-sized bed for some late night debauchery. She’s about to erupt with desire, demanding that her sugar daddy come over so they can rock each other’s body into the wee hours of the morning. All the erotic elements are in place: a bowl of juicy strawberries, lacy lingerie and of course Tha Carter III on repeat. She’s got a check list of things she wants to do to him and she plans on executing each one with surgical precision. Minaj’s aggressive drive to the rim is complimented by the sultriness of Ariana Grande who is spelling out the lucky guy’s name on the bed. There’s no mistaking the call, sex is what they want and they’ll accept nothing less than the best.

Chic makes a triumphant return to the stage, reinvigorating a groove that is as fresh today as it was when they were getting their “Le Freak” on over forty years prior. Very little has changed, which is a good thing as they’re iconic sound is a standard that defined a generation. Smashing the dance floor is their top priority, and the message is simple: boogie like no one is watching. The statement is a little cliche, but it’s the rhythm bubbling underneath that makes it vibrate with intensity. Nile Rodgers is the executive chef and with his clean riffing he juliennes the beat into thin slices. NAO‘s Minnie-like vocals glide over it with ease and her request to get any and everyone on the dance floor is in a word: irresistible.