Made You Look

Nas' song "Made You Look" is a powerful anthem that encapsulates the essence of street life, survival, and the swagger that comes with it. The track opens with Nas setting the stage, emphasizing his role in bringing 'rap justice' and painting a vivid picture of his lifestyle. He describes himself and his crew as 'soldier survivors,' always dressed in the best and exuding confidence. The imagery of driving through the city with a 'thug girl' and the clever wordplay about his car's topless state showcase Nas' lyrical prowess and his ability to blend street smarts with sophistication.

The chorus, with its repeated line "They shootin'! -- aw made you look," serves as a stark reminder of the dangers and realities of street life. Nas cleverly juxtaposes this with the idea of being a 'slave to a page in my rhyme book,' highlighting the power and influence of his words. The chorus also touches on themes of wealth and status, with Nas declaring that the time for 'playboys' is up, and questioning the whereabouts of gangsters and attractive women, further emphasizing the gritty, competitive nature of his world.

In the second verse, Nas shifts the focus to the raw, unfiltered reality of 'street-hop.' He calls for action, urging listeners to get up and move, while also warning against unnecessary violence. The verse is filled with vivid imagery, from the 'streetsweeper' in the trunk to the tension-diffusing power of music. Nas also addresses the hustlers, dealers, and killers, urging them to move swiftly and leave behind petty conflicts. The verse ends with a powerful image of Nas pulling out his 'eagle fo-forty,' a symbol of his readiness to defend himself and his territory.

The final verse sees Nas adopting a more confrontational tone, describing his 'rude' mood and readiness to lay out anyone who challenges him. He references mobsters and their preference for guns over fists, and delivers a nod to the late Big Pun with the line 'you ain't even en mi clasa.' The verse also touches on the allure of wealth and status, with mentions of Maybach Benzes and TV plasmas, and the importance of intelligence and thoroughbred qualities in a partner. Nas ends the song with a declaration of his leadership and a final, chilling reminder of his lethal capabilities.