Writers Lyrics – Nas, DJ Premier

Writers Lyrics Meaning

[Chorus: Nas, Rakim & Bootie Brown]
This chorus celebrates graffiti and the pride of leaving a personal mark. Nas compares himself to graffiti artists, saying he writes his name in a way that’s bold and unique, sometimes hard to read. It shows how he values self-expression and individuality, and how leaving your signature—literally or figuratively—is a way to be remembered and recognized. It’s about being creative, fearless, and standing out.

[Verse 1: Nas]
In this verse, Nas describes himself as being on a mission, like he’s been sent to showcase his skill and talent. He calls himself a writer, but instead of using spray paint, he uses his rap skills as a tool to leave his mark. He admires real graffiti writers who take risks, b0mbing trains, walls, and subway platforms, showing bravery and street-smart creativity. Nas highlights that many of these writers come from difficult backgrounds, like foster kids or the less fortunate, yet they still find ways to express themselves through their art. He paints a picture of graffiti everywhere—from parks to courtyards, sports bars, and landmarks—showing that this culture is all around him and inspiring him. He admits he always wanted to do the same kind of street writing, but he uses his microphone and words as his marker. Nas also shares that he would experiment at night with pens, markers, or chalk, practicing his craft in private before sharing it with the world. This verse connects graffiti culture to hip hop, showing respect for the street artists while explaining how their creativity influenced him. It’s about admiration, inspiration, and the idea that writing—whether on walls or with words—is a way to leave a lasting legacy.

[Chorus: Nas, Rakim & Bootie Brown]
Here, the chorus reinforces the idea of personal expression through writing. Nas talks about leaving his name in graffiti or experimenting with pens, markers, and chalk late at night. It highlights his dedication, showing that creating and leaving a mark takes effort and time. He also reminds listeners that his style, like graffiti, can be complex and unique, representing individuality and pride in creativity.

[Verse 2: Nas]
In this verse, Nas pays tribute to graffiti pioneers and legends, naming influential artists and crews who shaped the culture. He highlights their iconic tags and contributions, including figures from both the U.S. and around the world, showing that graffiti is a global movement. He also acknowledges female artists, emphasizing that the art form includes diverse voices. Nas compares his rap to tagging, saying the microphone is his marker, letting him leave a mark in the music world just as writers leave theirs on walls and trains. Walking at night with a marker mirrors the dedication and passion of street writers. This verse is full of respect and admiration, celebrating the skill, bravery, and creativity of those who have built graffiti into an art form. Nas connects graffiti to culture, community, and legacy, showing that leaving your mark is both personal and collective, linking individual expression to a larger history of street art.

[Chorus: Nas, Rakim & Bootie Brown]
The chorus repeats, emphasizing graffiti as self-expression and a way to leave your mark on the world. Nas reminds listeners of his pride in writing and tagging, whether with a pen, marker, or chalk. He shows that like graffiti, his style is distinct, sometimes hard to read, but always meaningful. It reflects persistence, creativity, and identity.

[Interlude: Nas]
In this part, Nas gives shout-outs to countless graffiti writers and crews, acknowledging their dedication and creativity. He lists names and crews from different cities, showing how widespread and influential the culture is. It highlights the community aspect of graffiti, where artists inspire each other, compete, and build a shared history. Nas honors those who paved the way and stresses that every writer contributes to the culture, leaving a mark that goes beyond walls and becomes part of a larger story of street art.

[Verse 3: Nas]
Nas reflects on the struggles and risks graffiti writers face, including encounters with cops and the legal consequences of vandalism. He mentions iconic figures like Keith Haring and Basquiat, connecting street art to larger cultural movements. He names more legendary writers and crews, showing their influence and dedication. Nas compares graffiti to a religion, emphasizing its deep personal and cultural significance. He uses the microphone as his tool, tagging names in music just as writers tag walls and trains, keeping their legacy alive. He recognizes those who passed away, giving them respect, and celebrates the creativity, skill, and persistence of artists everywhere. The verse portrays graffiti as both rebellious and meaningful, linking identity, culture, and community, and showing how art can leave a lasting impact.

[Outro: Nas]
Nas encourages new and upcoming writers to keep going, keep tagging, and make their names known. He celebrates persistence, creativity, and the spirit of self-expression, motivating beginners to continue leaving their mark and contributing to the culture.