The song “Figure It Out” is a collaboration between Nas, French Montana, and Kanye West. It was released on May 6, 2016, as part of French Montana’s mixtape Wave Gods. This track has caught a lot of attention for its deep lyrics and the teamwork between the artists.
This collaboration brings together different styles. Nas adds deep verses to the mix. The song’s release was a big deal in hip-hop. It showed the artists’ skill in making music that’s both meaningful and fun to listen to.
Key Takeaways
- The song “Figure It Out” is a collaboration between Nas, French Montana, and Kanye West.
- It was released in 2016 as part of French Montana’s mixtape Wave Gods.
- The track is known for its introspective lyrics and the synergy between the artists.
- Nas brings his signature style to the song, delivering thought-provoking verses.
- The collaboration was a significant moment in hip-hop, highlighting the artists’ creative chemistry.
The Context of “Figure It Out” by Nas
Nas’ journey as an artist is truly captivating. It shows his growth, experimentation, and innovation in “Figure It Out.” Over decades, Nas has become a key figure in hip-hop. He’s known for his powerful lyrics and storytelling skills.
The Artist’s Journey
Nas has grown a lot in hip-hop. Starting as a young rapper from Queens, New York, he’s now a legend. His work with French Montana on “Figure It Out” shows his openness to new ideas.
Key milestones in Nas’ career include his debut album “Illmatic.” It’s seen as one of the best hip-hop albums ever. He’s also explored many themes and styles in his music.
Evolution of Nas’ Music Style
Nas’ music has changed a lot over the years. It’s been shaped by his life, social views, and hip-hop’s evolution. “Figure It Out” mixes his classic style with a modern twist, showing his range.
The collaboration with French Montana on “Figure It Out” is special. It brings together two hip-hop talents. This highlights the song’s role in Nas’ career and hip-hop’s history.
Themes Explored in the Song
Nas’ song “Figure It Out” is filled with themes that touch listeners deeply. It shows Nas’ skill in creating music that is both catchy and meaningful.
Identity and Self-Discovery
The song focuses on the search for identity and self-discovery. Nas shares his journey, offering insights into understanding oneself. This theme is key in hip-hop, where identity is a major story line.
Struggles and Resilience
The song also talks about the struggles of self-discovery. Nas openly shares his challenges, showing the resilience needed to get through them. This part of the song reminds us of the power of never giving up.
Looking into these themes helps listeners understand the song’s message better. The story of struggles in music and the need for resilience makes “Figure It Out” a powerful and relatable song.
Lyric Analysis of Key Lines
Nas’ ‘Figure It Out’ is a song full of deep lyrics. It features Kanye West and mixes personal stories with big ideas. This makes it a great topic for analyzing lyrics.
Notable Verses
The verses in ‘Figure It Out’ are filled with introspective moments and vivid storytelling. Nas is famous for telling complex stories, and this song is one of them. For example, the line “I’m trying to figure it out” is repeated. It shows the theme of finding oneself and never giving up.
Symbolism in the Lyrics
The lyrics of ‘Figure It Out’ are more than just personal thoughts. They are full of symbols. Kanye West’s Auto-Tune on the hook adds a special touch. It mixes styles and makes the song’s feelings stronger.
To really get the song, we need to look at the symbolism in hip-hop. It helps tell the story of struggle and staying strong. Analyzing these lyrics gives us a peek into the artist’s journey and the big ideas the song talks about.
The Collaboration Behind the Track
“Figure It Out” is a story of teamwork in music. It shows how different talents can come together to create something special.
Producers and Features
DJ Khalil and Rick Steel worked on “Figure It Out.” They brought their skills to the table. The song also has French Montana and Kanye West, and Nas. This mix of styles made the song unique.
- DJ Khalil: Known for his work with various artists, DJ Khalil contributed significantly to the song’s production.
- Rick Steel: As a co-producer, Rick Steel played a crucial role in shaping the track.
- French Montana: His feature added a distinct flavor to the song.
- Kanye West: Known for his innovative approach, Kanye West brought his unique perspective to the collaboration.
Creative Process Insights
The producers worked with Nas, French Montana, and Kanye West. They wanted the song to be personal yet relatable to everyone.
- The initial production was handled by DJ Khalil, who laid the foundation for the song.
- Rick Steel’s input was crucial in finalizing the track, adding the finishing touches.
- The features by French Montana and Kanye West were seamlessly integrated into the song, enhancing its appeal.
Reception and Impact of the Song
Nas’ ‘Figure It Out’ got mixed reviews, showing its complex and intriguing side. It did well on the charts, reaching number 4 on the US Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart.
The mixed feelings came from its deep lyrics and sound. Some critics loved Nas’ words, while others thought it was less exciting than his past work.
Critical Reviews
Reviews for “Figure It Out” were all over the place. Some praised its deep thoughts and Nas’ storytelling. For example, Rolling Stone said, “Nas shows off his skill in words, telling stories that grab you.”
“Nas is a master of complex lyrics, and ‘Figure It Out’ proves it. He tackles identity and strength in a way that’s impressive.”
But not everyone was impressed. Some critics said it didn’t meet Nas’ high standards. A Complex review noted that while Nas’ voice was great, the music didn’t quite hit the mark.
| Publication | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling Stone | 4/5 | Praised Nas’ lyrical dexterity |
| Pitchfork | 7.5/10 | Appreciated the thematic depth |
| Complex | 3/5 | Criticized the production |
Audience Response
Fans had mixed feelings about “Figure It Out” too. They liked the song’s themes and Nas’ stories. On streaming sites, it got a lot of attention for its deep lyrics.
On social media, fans shared their thoughts on the song. Some loved its message of staying strong. One fan tweeted, “Nas’ ‘Figure It Out’ is more than a song; it’s a call to keep going, no matter what.”
In the end, “Figure It Out” may not have won everyone over, but it’s a special part of Nas’ music. It has touched fans and started important discussions.
Comparisons to Other Nas Tracks
Nas has been making music for decades. His songs, like ‘Figure It Out’, share common themes. These include identity, resilience, and social commentary, found throughout his Nas discography.
Recurring Themes in Nas’ Music
Nas’ music often talks about growing up in tough places. Songs like “N.Y. State of Mind” and “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” are deeply personal yet relatable. ‘Figure It Out’ follows this pattern, offering a glimpse into Nas’ life and the world he sees.
In songs like “Rewind” and “Thief’s Disease“, Nas shares his experiences and lessons. These tracks, like ‘Figure It Out’, show Nas’ skill in storytelling and tackling tough issues through his words.
| Song Title | Album | Year | Notable Themes |
|---|---|---|---|
| N.Y. State of Mind | Illmatic | 1994 | Life in Queens, personal struggle |
| If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) | It Was Written | 1996 | Social justice, personal aspiration |
| Rewind | Stillmatic | 2001 | Reflection, personal growth |
| Figure It Out | King’s Disease II | 2021 | Resilience, self-discovery |
Noteworthy Collaborations
Nas has worked with many artists, adding new layers to his music. For example, his collaboration with Lauryn Hill on “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is unforgettable. ‘Figure It Out’ also benefits from its featured artists, making it emotionally and lyrically richer.
Learn more about Nas’ top tracks and their rankings on Vibe.com. It offers insights into his most celebrated works and their impact on his discography.
Nas’ collaborations with artists from different generations and styles are a key part of his career. This is seen in his music and how his songs are referenced and admired by newer artists. For instance, Kanye West’s “New Again” mentions Nas, showing Nas’ influence on today’s hip-hop. More on this can be found on Old Time Music.
Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of “Figure It Out”
Nas’ song “Figure It Out” has made a big impact on hip-hop. Its themes of looking back and moving forward still touch many. The song’s deep thoughts on who we are, our struggles, and growing up have made it a key part of music history.
Cultural Impact
“Figure It Out” has shaped modern hip-hop in many ways. Its message keeps inspiring artists and fans. This has solidified its spot as a lasting legacy in the genre.
Enduring Relevance
“Figure It Out” shows Nas’ skill in creating music that lasts. Even as hip-hop changes, the song reminds us of the value of self-reflection and never giving up.
Looking at the song’s impact and lasting appeal, it’s clear. “Figure It Out” is a standout in Nas’ work and a big influence on hip-hop.
FAQ
What is the song “Figure It Out” by Nas about?
“Figure It Out” by Nas talks about finding yourself and overcoming challenges. It features collaborations with French Montana and Kanye West.
Who are the artists featured on “Figure It Out”?
The song “Figure It Out” features Nas, French Montana, and Kanye West.
When was “Figure It Out” released?
“Figure It Out” was released in 2016.
What is notable about Kanye West’s contribution to the song?
Kanye West’s use of Auto-Tune on the hook adds a unique element to the track. It blends different styles and enhances the song’s emotional impact.
How did critics and the audience receive “Figure It Out”?
While the song may not have received universally positive reviews, it still managed to chart. It garnered attention from both critics and the audience.
How does “Figure It Out” fit into Nas’ discography?
“Figure It Out” is part of Nas’ work that explores similar themes found in his other tracks. It represents one of his noteworthy collaborations.
What producers were involved in creating “Figure It Out”?
Although the specific producers are not mentioned, the collaboration between French Montana, Kanye West, and Nas brought together different talents and styles. This resulted in a unique sound.
What is the significance of “Figure It Out” in modern hip-hop?
“Figure It Out” continues to be relevant in discussions of life and growth. It makes a significant contribution to the hip-hop genre and influences modern hip-hop.
