Meaning of Never Die by Nas
In the song "Never Die" by Nas, the overall theme revolves around the immortality and lasting impact of iconic figures. Nas, an acclaimed rapper known for his intricate wordplay and storytelling ability, is reflecting on his own legacy and the enduring nature of his art. Through clever wordplay and thought-provoking lyrics, Nas explores various themes that contribute to the overarching message of the song.One standout lyric is, "Homie, I love the new NY 'cause I'm the new NY and the old NY at the same time." Here, Nas conveys the idea of evolution and continuity. He recognizes that he is both a part of the new wave of artists and an embodiment of the legacy left by the great pioneers of New York hip-hop. This lyric speaks to the theme of embracing change while acknowledging and respecting the roots from which one has emerged.In another line, Nas declares, "I always hit the last shot when it's game time, The Jordan, Kobe, 'Bron talk, take a long walk." This lyric illustrates the theme of seizing opportunities and asserting dominance. Nas compares himself to legendary basketball players known for their clutch performances. By aligning himself with these icons, he implies that he possesses the skill and mental fortitude to excel in his craft, ensuring his lasting impact in the music industry.Nas further develops the theme of resilience and perseverance with the line, "Any great challenges, I find a loop through, Loopholes, why they treat me so bad, Club Nouveau." Here, he cleverly plays with words to express his ability to overcome obstacles and find alternative solutions to problems. By referencing the song "Why You Treat Me So Bad" by Club Nouveau, Nas suggests that he is not easily deterred by adversity. This theme reinforces the message of never-ending resilience and the ability to overcome hardships faced along the path to greatness.The lyric, "This my Tom Cruise flow, top gun, they too slow, Computers ain't fast enough to keep up with Nasty 'cause," points to the theme of innovation and staying ahead of the curve. Nas compares his flow to Tom Cruise's character in the movie "Top Gun," emphasizing his ability to outpace and outshine his contemporaries. By mentioning computers not being fast enough to keep up, Nas asserts his relevance in an ever-changing digital age and showcases his uncompromising commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards.Throughout "Never Die," Nas explores various imaginative themes that all tie back to the overarching theme of the song - the immortality and lasting impact of iconic individuals. From embracing change and acknowledging one's roots, to seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges, Nas portrays himself as an artist who remains relevant and influential. His use of inventive wordplay and poignant imagery captivates listeners and further cements his status as an iconic figure in the music industry.