Instead of showing the "black Kemet gods, black Egyptian gods" in visuals or the album pharaoh-inspired cover of I Am, Nas opens his first verse on that note. In fact, I would argue that comparing the lyrics side-by-side, there's actually growth. People criticized how NASIR lacked storytelling, but I'm on the contrary. I may not have understood Nas' verses, but I knew he was Jesus being crucified in the visual, and that Puffy was angry about something while always popping bottles in style.īut 19 years later, the context of "Not For Radio," an extenuation of "Hate Me Now," is much clearer. Inspired by the knockout vibes of The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Victory," "Hate Me Now" discussed persevering despite unjust envy from others.Īs a five-year-old at the time of "Hate Me Now's" release, I remember the Hype Williams-directed music video being one of the first that I comprehended immediately. "Not For Radio" is the new-age equivalent of Nas and Puffy's Trackmaster collab "Hate Me Now." Also defiant in its attitude, the Escobar chartacter of Nas appears at the beginning of that track, but that time around it was Puffy doing the introduction over samples from Carmina Burana. Music releases as quests for spiritual guidance, already understanding sharing the limelight with Nas since 2005's "We Major." There's a mutual recognition for the God complex all three men have repeatedly shown in their discography-not of the kind that's meant to press religion, but rather celebrate our identies and worth as human beings. The linkage of Nas, Kanye West, and Puffy is a holy trinity I never thought I'd witness in the context of "Not For Radio," but it all makes sense upon broader examination.
Following that line are a chorus of heavenly angels singing from the sky, leading to Puff Daddy's resurgence for a rant. Nas ignites his latest era saying "Escobar Season begins," a return to his It Was Written form, in the opening second of silence. It's the regal attitude of "Not For Radio" that makes it stand out as one of summer's best. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.Īs summer officially winds down and seasonal recaps start to finalize, I feel the need to express gratitude to Nas-who also celebrates his birthday today (September 14)-for making "Not For Radio" the opener of NASIR.