Nas:The man, The music, The legacy

When you hear the name, Nasir,the first thing that comes to your mind is,is he Nigerian?...that was what I used to think those years we didn't have a vibrant and robust research platform. Nasir 'Nas' Jones is an American rapper with deep roots in Africa, having made his mark in the rap game for 20 odd years and been one of the few rappers who has positively influenced me,I find it befitting to write an ode to him. Who is Nas? A rap sage,a rappers rapper,godson,Escobar,an introvert,....people have contradicting perceptions about this man,but one thing is certain, He is one of the most intelligent  man you would ever listen to. I remember hearing,"I carry the cross,if virgin Mary had an abortion,I'd still be carried on the chariot",and I wondered,who does this? Over the years,challenges has come his way,from his publicised divorce to his tax evasion problems,but he's always smiling and using every challenge as a wake up call to his fans through his music to always grind hard,never give up.."3:45am can't sleep,cant dream am stuck,money problems pop,how will I survive"?...you wonder just how much the tax problem is weighing on his mind,but then you hear "whatever happens happens" and it uplifts your spirit to not ever give in to the struggles of our daily life.
Nas gives alot through his music,educates,mentors and guides, and through non profit programs for youths with artistic abilities. He is referred to as Contemporary rap's greatest innovator in storytelling, he weaves words together into a basketful of knowledge where you can tap from, a fountain of intelligence, simplicity redefined, a man who accepts his faults. On one of his greatest track, he said "she looking at me like am not the coolest father figure but she rocking with it", an admittance of failure in his fatherly duties. Over the years, Nas has made mistakes,created timeless hits and records,been in dire financial crisis but one thing remains the same, his ability to accept,learn and believe in positivity. With over 7 albums,countless features,collaborative album,charity works, Nas has touched my life in more ways than I count,and words doesn't really do justice to what he has achieved both personally and professionally.
He has cemented his legacy in the hip hop scene by been a visionary, a believer of truth, a man who isn't fazed by riches and fame,awards,plaques or sales. He turned 43 today but still looks 20, on his way to been a billionaire by investing in budding young people who has great ideas but little or no funds to execute these ideas.
Studying Nas is like a maze,with endless tunnels and turns...
All said and done, I hope he lives many more years and bless us with his rich knowledge through his songs.