Back When
by Nas

Album: Life Is Good (2012)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This No I.D. produced cut finds Nas reviewing his past in Queens and the times spent with peers like Shan and AZ. He mines his background for factors that contributed to the man he is today.
  • The song finds Nas condemning discrimination in Hip-Hop lyrics. He raps: "You seem to blame all your shortcomings on sex and race. The Mafia, homosexuals and all the Jews. You might as well blame all your shortcomings on your foes the Jews. It's bogwash point of views, stereotypical, anti-Semitic like the foul words Gibson spewed." Nas explained to NME: "That's just me saying let go of the illusions of someone holding you back."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Ian Astbury of The Cult

Ian Astbury of The CultSongwriter Interviews

The Cult frontman tells who the "Fire Woman" is, and talks about performing with the new version of The Doors.

JJ Burnel of The Stranglers

JJ Burnel of The StranglersSongwriter Interviews

JJ talks about The Stranglers' signature sound - keyboard and bass - which isn't your typical strain of punk rock.

Bible Lyrics

Bible LyricsMusic Quiz

Rockers, rappers and pop stars have been known to quote the Bible in their songs. See if you match the artist to the biblical lyric.

Protest Songs

Protest SongsMusic Quiz

How well do you know your protest songs (including the one that went to #1)?

Adele

AdeleFact or Fiction

Despite her reticent personality, Adele's life and music are filled with intrigue. See if you can spot the true tales.

Wedding Bell Blues

Wedding Bell BluesSong Writing

When a song describes a wedding, it's rarely something to celebrate - with one big exception.