Meaning of Back When by Nas
In Nas' song "Back When," the overall theme centers around nostalgia and reflection on the artist's rise to fame. It takes us on a journey back to the artist's early days in New York City, evoking a strong sense of reminiscing and appreciation for where he came from. The song's lyrics, both in Nas' verses and the sampled refrains, carry various standout themes that contribute to the overall narrative of the song.One standout lyric in the song is, "The ill reminisce and think about the fly days." This lyric sets the tone for the entire track and serves as a gateway to Nas' journey down memory lane. The theme it helps develop is the sentimentality of looking back and appreciating the past.Another notable lyric is, "How it all started, fifth floor apartment, a jigsaw puzzle aerial view of the projects." This lyric highlights the artist's humble beginnings and the sense of community that prevailed in his neighborhood. It emphasizes the theme of resilience and the ability to rise above challenging circumstances.The line, "Pac left me inside a rap world with niggas that wink at other rappers, undercover niggas spit every way," delves into the theme of authenticity and loyalty within the hip-hop industry. It touches on the idea of staying true to oneself and not succumbing to the pressures of conformity or shallow collaborations."Light a L for Vernon for niggas who would burn in Hell for Vernon, 10th Street, 12th Street, Nightmare on Elm Street," is a lyric filled with vivid imagery and references to streets and places. It speaks to the theme of representing one's neighborhood, paying homage to those who came before, and the resilience of marginalized communities.A thought-provoking line is, "To call them fake today is hate, real niggas extinct." This lyric explores the theme of authenticity and the changing dynamics within the music industry. It questions the blurred lines between genuine artistry and opportunism, emphasizing the need to preserve the core essence of rap culture.In the verse, "You