Meaning of To My by Nas

In the legendary track "To My" by Nas featuring Timbaland, we are taken on a journey through a lyrical landscape that touches on a multitude of themes, each contributing to the overall message of the song. The song exudes confidence and assertiveness, with Nas effortlessly flowing over Timbaland's infectious beats. While the surface-level theme may seem like a typical rap anthem, a closer examination reveals underlying themes that delve into the complexities of life, success, and the burden of expectations.One standout lyric that showcases Nas' self-assuredness and determination is: "Already made history, y'all can have that, that ain't shit to me. About to have my own ASCAP, and NASDAQ." This lyric not only highlights Nas' immense success as a rapper but also speaks to the desire for ownership and control over his own destiny. Nas metaphorically links his achievements in the music industry to his plans of venturing into business. It's a metaphorical nod to the power of his influence and his aspirations to build an empire beyond the music world. This lyric speaks to the theme of ambition, growth, and the resilience necessary to navigate the journey towards success.Another intriguing lyric that adds depth to the song is: "Some'll smoke embalming fluid and vomit to it. I'm straight chronic, yo, it's atomic how I blew up." Here, Nas delves into the darker aspects of fame and the sacrifices artists may make to achieve success. While some may resort to harmful substances to cope with the pressures and expectations of the industry, Nas asserts his ability to rise above those vices. He compares his artistic impact to an explosion, highlighting the magnitude of his rise to stardom. This lyric reflects the theme of self-preservation and the importance of staying true to oneself in a world that can be toxic and consume those who are not careful.Moving on, the verse contributed by Mad Skillz provides an interesting contrast to Nas' perspective. Skillz's lyric, "Your rhymes don't faze me, I'm above 'em; half y'all raps is born retarded, now you out here tryin' to get rid of it," introduces the theme of authenticity and the struggle to maintain artistic integrity in a world filled with imitations. Skillz asserts his superiority over other artists who attempt to mimic his style, suggesting that their attempts are futile and lack originality. This theme of staying true to oneself and refusing to compromise on artistic vision aligns with the overarching theme of the song, as Nas and Skillz both exude confidence in their unique contributions to the rap industry.In Timbaland's verse, we get a glimpse into the mindset of a successful producer struggling with jealousy and admiration from his peers: "Ladies looooovve me; niggas say, 'Timbaland's really rappin', what the fuck is up, B?' The jeallllllousy, I kill niggas with seven thangs, mostly they jackin' beats." Timbaland's experiences as a producer-turned-rapper give him a different perspective on the complexities of fame and success. He acknowledges the admiration he receives from fans, particularly the women, but also reveals the envy and threats he faces from fellow artists. This lyric touches on the themes of success, jealousy, and the challenges that come with breaking out of one's preconceived role in the industry."To My" is a multifaceted track that delves deeper into various themes beyond the surface-level bravado we often associate with rap anthems. From Nas' resolute ambition and refusal to settle for anything less, to Skillz's unwavering authenticity and Timbaland's struggles with fame and envy, the song explores the complexities and struggles of artists navigating the music industry. It reminds us that beneath the glitz and glamour lies a constant fight for self-expression, integrity, and the desire to leave a lasting legacy. Ultimately, "To My" serves as an anthem for the dreamers and the mavericks, urging us to embrace our ambitions and overcome the obstacles that stand in our way.