If I Ruled The World

The song "If I Ruled The World" by Lauryn Hill, featuring Nas, is a powerful hip-hop track that explores themes of social justice, freedom, and the transformative power of leadership. The lyrics present a utopian vision of what the world could be like if the artists were in charge, highlighting the stark contrast with the current state of society.

Nas opens the song with vivid imagery of a world without police harassment, unjust trials, and societal constraints. He dreams of a place where knowledge and wealth are accessible to all, free from the corruption and violence that plague many communities. The chorus, sung by Lauryn Hill, reinforces this vision of liberation and prosperity, expressing a desire to free their sons and share the wealth symbolized by 'black diamonds and pearls.' The phrase 'still living for today, in these last days and times' suggests an awareness of the current struggles and the urgency for change.

The song also touches on the idea of reversing historical injustices, with Nas imagining releasing political prisoners and correcting the wrongs of the past. The repeated walks 'right up to the sun' symbolize an aspirational journey towards a brighter future, unattainable in the current world but possible in their imagined one. Overall, the song is a call to action, encouraging listeners to envision a better world and work towards making it a reality.