Meaning of Break the Locks by Nas

The Nas song titled 'Break the Locks' is an energetic anthem that celebrates freedom, perseverance, and the power of music. The song, which features various artists such as Jaden Smith, Skylan Brooks, Justice Smith, and Tremaine Brown Jr., captures the essence of the Netflix series 'The Get Down,' which revolves around the rise of hip-hop and disco in the South Bronx during the late 1970s.At its core, the song explores the idea of breaking free from societal constraints and pursuing one's dreams. It is a rallying cry for those who have fought hard to overcome obstacles and establish themselves in a world that often tries to hold them back. The lyrics exude a sense of triumph and defiance, inspiring listeners to embrace their true selves and push boundaries.One standout lyric in the song is Jaden Smith's line, "I'm like Van Gogh, I rock the Kangol, With the S.O.U.T.H, Bronx flow." This lyric delves into the theme of artistic self-expression. The comparison to Van Gogh, a legendary painter known for his unique and unconventional style, conveys the idea of embracing individuality without conforming to societal norms. Smith's mention of the Kangol hat, a symbol of the hip-hop fashion culture, further emphasizes the importance of personal style and the freedom to express oneself through fashion and music.Skylan Brooks' verse, "I'm Ra-Ra, live in the flesh, Come out hard with rhymes I finesse," explores the theme of self-confidence and authenticity. By proclaiming his name and declaring his presence, Brooks asserts his identity and highlights the importance of staying true to oneself. The mention of finesse suggests a level of skill and expertise in his craft, emphasizing the value of honing one's talents and standing out among the crowd.Another notable lyric is Justice Smith's line, "Yeah, I can hear God answering me, It's been so hard looking at my family tree, It could've been so beautiful fucking the talknologist, Knew we didn't need no colleges." This lyric delves into the theme of self-discovery and the challenges of forging one's own path. Smith's search for identity is reflected in his exploration of his family history and the realization that education does not solely determine success. The mention of "fucking the talknologist" serves as a metaphor for defying societal expectations and finding alternative ways to achieve greatness.Throughout the song, the recurring phrases "Get Down Brothers" and "We had to break the locks" symbolize the unity and resilience of the characters in 'The Get Down' series. These lines embody the overarching theme of breaking free from constraints, both external and internal, and coming together as a collective force to overcome adversity.In a broader context, the song echoes the spirit of the South Bronx and pays homage to the cultural movement that shaped hip-hop and disco music. It celebrates the power of music as a catalyst for change, a means of self-expression, and a vehicle for liberation. Ultimately, 'Break the Locks' encourages listeners to embrace their true selves, pursue their passions relentlessly, and never let anything or anyone hold them back.In conclusion, the Nas song 'Break the Locks' is a vibrant and uplifting anthem that explores themes of freedom, perseverance, artistic self-expression, self-confidence, self-discovery, and the power of unity. Through its rich lyrics and spirited performances, the song captures the essence of the Netflix series 'The Get Down,' celebrating the resilience and triumph of characters breaking free from societal constraints and paving their own paths. It stands as an inspiration to all those who dare to dream and strive for greatness, reminding us that no lock is strong enough to hold back those who are determined to soar.