Wisdom Body-Nas Quotes Pt. II

“People fear what they don’t understand/Hate what they can’t conquer/Guess that’s just the fury of man…”

From “Hate Me Now”, I AM (1999)

Although the ostentatious, salacious video was anti-Nasir to many Hip-Hop purists, (who could forget the strippers covered in metallic body paint, a supercilious Nas outfitted in a snow white mink sitting next to a Cristal-spitting Diddy flanked by hotties in the club?) , the single’s underlying message was one of upliftment and entitlement to those who had ever felt unfairly criticized for simply “doing them”. The God MC is no stranger to this (Nas is one of the most harshly-judged rappers to date) , so who better than him to make a song entitled ‘”Hate Me Now”?  This quote embodies Nas’ defensive side, urging listeners to remember to stay true to themselves whether other people ”get it” or not. In other words, “opinions are like assholes….” you know the rest. Do you.

 

“Props is a true thug’s wife”

From “Verbal Intercourse”, Only Built for Cuban Linx (1995)

A verse chock full of mystery, wit and wisdom, these prolific bars earned Nas a 1995 “Hip-Hop Quotable” from The Source Magazine. But it’s this line that thugs and squares can relate to just the same. Respect that is earned and maintained as well as your integrity are all one has in this world. Keep both close and well-guarded, just like you would the one you love.

Want more jewels?!? Be patient for Part III!

One Love

WISDOM BODY-Nas Quotes to Live By, Pt. One

As one of our generation’s most thought-provoking poets, Nas’ talents as a writer and a lyricist cannot be questioned. The wisdom that this MC has imparted through his music has touched many individuals, whether intentionally or by accident. While Nas is one of the greatest lyrically, his intelligence and imagination make him one of the most profound writers of the Hip-Hop generation.

I chose to pay tribute to Nas by highlighting some of his most insightful quotes; words that he’s said that have influenced or even become personal mantras for many. While I feel that Hip-Hop culture possesses some of the greatest contemporary thinkers and orators to speak on the plight of urban America, Nas’ quotes deserve special homage because much of what he has written can be applied to everyday life. Like many great thinkers before him, Nas’ words deserve credit and recognition for the lives that they continue to touch.

#1 “Those who know don’t talk and those who talk don’t know a thing…”

From “Some of Us Have Angels”, NAStradamus (2000).

One of my personal mantras and a favorite Nas quote. Simple and honest words to live by.

#2 “Never sleep/Cuz sleep is the cousin of death…”

From “NY State of Mind”, Illmatic (1994).

Here Nasty Nas warns about procrastination becoming one’s deterrent. Wake up and pay attention, class is in session!

#3-”Love changes/A thug changes and best friends become strangers…”

“The Message”, It Was Written (1997).

I never met a Hip-Hop listener (Nas fan or not) who couldn’t relate to this gem of wisdom. No stranger to “frenemies” (see Nas’ history of strained relationships, past and present, professional and personal, i.e: Jay-Z, Cormega, Prodigy, even his baby’s mama Carmen)-Nas speaks the undeniable truth about inevitable changes that can affect a relationship of any kind. Word life….

Want more jewels? Stay tuned for Pt. Two….

Favorite All-Time Soul Songs

Did you ever hear a song that made time freeze? Music, especially good music can do that to you. Great music can immortalize time, creating long-lasting memories so vivid that whenever you hear that song it takes you back in time. Whether the moment was good or bad, that song has the ability to take you there. Maybe that’s why they call it “soul” music.

Isley Brothers “Make Me Say It Again”

The O’Jays ” I Love Music”

Isley Brothers “Footsteps in the Dark”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DLnUwUpnb8&feature=related

Stevie Wonder “Golden Lady”

Norman Connors “You Are My Starship”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cco6X9-2n4A

Isley Brothers “For the Love of You”

Bobby Womack “Across 110th Street”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOg_8hCC4u4

Bobby Womack “If You Think You’re Lonely Now”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naRIH5F9sz0&feature=related

Donny Hathaway “A Song for You”

Shirley Murdock “As We Lay”

Mint Condition “Pretty Brown Eyes (Breakin’ My Heart)”

Tony Toni Tone “Anniversary”

Blackstreet “Before I Let You Go”

Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes

Etta James “At Last”

Curtis Mayfield “Give Me Your Love”

Ohio Players “I Want To Be Free”

How to Use Realrandomnyc

Hello Everyone,

By now I hope you have checked out the blog and enjoy what you see. Feedback and comments are welcome. Thanks for the support:-)

Right now I want to explain how to navigate on this blog in order to maximize your experience. All posts are categorized by topic, so if fashion is your thing, visit “Fashion”, and so on and so forth. Daily posts are listed regardless of category.

Explanation of some of the more ambiguous categories:

The “Crush” category is designed to show love to male celeb (and maybe a few unknown) hotties we all adore. “Muse” is a category dedicated to females (past and present) who represent originality, great style or extraordinary talent (or all three). Under ”Inspiration” you can find uplifting quotes and/or advice; just a little substance behind the style.

That’s it for now, check back for more hot topics very soon!

Peace and Love

Smartalecky

Quick, give me three ways you can wear an old t-shirt. Ha, too late!

 I knew you couldn’t come up with one let alone three, so here’s a thought: Check out a FLY bag made by SMARTALECKY by Tara Campbell New York.

I met Tara last week hustling her wares in NYC’s Union Square and I was so impressed. An array of colorful totes of various sizes adorned Tara’s inviting stand, where she warmly welcomed me and explained how she made her original bags.This stylish, resourceful lady uses t-shirts (plain or with logos) in order to make custom, one of a kind bags in a variety of sizes. So if you’re looking for a way to recycle those old 80s concert tees or baby tees you can no longer fit over your muffin top (you know who you are:-)), Smartalecky is always a dope option. But instead of giving away all her trade secrets, check her out at www.smartalecky.wordpress.com

I copped a fly grey “I Love NY” slouchy tote, perfect for casual days. Bonus: The soft tote is also reversible with a cute floral, cheetah print on the inside. Support SmartAlecky and shout out to Tara for the inspiration and kind words!