It's foul what this money could do, cash corrupts the loyal.
NasRead
I see N.Y. hip-hop like I see N.Y. streets. N.Y. streets are grimy; it's a grind. N.Y. rappers are hustlers - whatever sound is in, we can adapt to that; there's nothing wrong with that.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the adaptability and resilience of New York hip-hop in a tough environment.
Nas compares New York hip-hop to the gritty streets of New York City, highlighting how both are characterized by their rawness and relentless effort. He acknowledges that just like the streets, which are a mix of challenges and opportunities, New York rappers are hustlers who can change and evolve their sound to stay relevant, showcasing a spirit of survival and creativity within the hip-hop scene.
Themes
New YorkHip-HopAdaptabilityGrimyHustle
In practice
Example use cases
During a panel discussion on the evolution of hip-hop culture.
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All quotes →It's a thin line between paper and hate,_x000D_ _x000D_ Friends and snakes, nine millis and thirty-eights,_x000D_ _x000D_ Hell or the pearly gates...I was destined to come,_x000D_ _x000D_ Predicted, blame God, He blew breath in my lungs.
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I pledge allegiance to the fair and balanced truth._x000D_ _x000D_ Not the biased truth,_x000D_ _x000D_ Not the liest truth,_x000D_ _x000D_ But the highest truth.
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Every time I get in the studio, I feel like I wanna have some fun. My fun is not doing the easy work. My fun is doing what's me.
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If you scared to take chances, you'll never have the answers...
NasRead
I don't respect killers, I respect O.G. knowledge,_x000D_ _x000D_ Codes of the streets got new rules, but no guidance._x000D_ _x000D_ Lessons, detrimental to a young disciple;_x000D_ _x000D_ Folks, take care of your brothers, niggas do as I do._x000D_ _x000D_ Keep your enemies close, where they can see you._x000D_ _x000D_ It's not your enemy who get you, it's always your own people.
NasRead
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