Nas vs. Jim Jones

Rap has been a part of my life ever since the days of MC Hammer and Tag Team (of the "Whoop There it Is" fame).

But I really began my immersion into hip-hop in 1996 and 1997, with two albums; 2pac's All Eyez on Me, and Nas' I am...

Both had their own styles that captured my attention. 2pac was pure emotion, raw and brutally honest. Nas was similarly honest, but more observant and lyrically superior.

Consequently, for the past 11 years or so, I have been a Nas fan, listening to his music, seeing his concerts, following his evolution and maturity as an artist.

On his 2004 release, God's Son, Nas reflects,

It's becoming unbearable, making hits is easy

Because he is so established, Nas has strayed away from the game of producing singles simply for the purpose of selling records like so many of his peers. On his latest album, his first and so far only single, "Hero", has the driving, infectious beat of Polo Da Don, one of the most sought after producers right now, as well as a hook sung by Keri Hilson, another certified hitmaker.

But rather than fulfilling the cliches we are used to seeing from rappers, Nas uses this space to articulate the importance of voice in his work, likening himself to Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and Billy Joel.

Compare that to the hypocrisy that is Rick Ross.

But Nas doesn't stop there. The track "Sly Fox" is about Fox News, America's favorite propaganda machine.He was involved involved in a protest on fox news as well outside of their headquarters a couple of weeks ago as well.

And this is where things get downright sad.

Later on in that week, Jim Jones, of "Ballin" fame, and really, not much else, attacked Nas, saying that his protest was simply promoting his album.

Really Jim?

Nas is one of the most respected guys in the rap game. With six number one albums, including one of the most classic rap records of all time under his belt, Nas has spawned a legion of fans, imitators, and haters due to his prowess behind the microphone. Do you really think bashing Fox News is going to help him sell records? Do you think middle aged white parents will be more or less inclined to buy a rap artist cd for their kids if he is radical or friendly? And you really don't think Fox News is a problem whatsoever, even in light of the recent news about the White House instructing what the pundits say on this network?

C'mon Jim. Your a one hit wonder trying to keep your fame by messing with a legend. And you showed your utter ignorance in doing so.

Sly Fox Music Video