You made a reference to 1983 in "Halftime." How did you get involved in rapping?

Nas: I don't even know how it all started. All I know is I grew up out here in Queensbridge projects and they used to have jams out in the parks. We were mad young, but we used to be up in the jams, and as I got older I started to pick it up. I used to see a lot of niggas rock mics. I don't know where they are now; they're probably dead or locked up.

Who were your favorite MCs then?

MC Shan, Dr. Jeckyl & and Mr. Hyde, Run-DMC, and LL Cool J.

Why did the jams in the park stop?

Shit, it's too real for that now. Back in the day there was shooting, but it wasn't as bad as it is now. Now shit will set off in a second. And people are not trying to be killed over no jams.

You got your start on Main Source's "Live At the Barbeque" and Serch's "Back to the Grill Again." How did you hook up with them?

I hooked up with Serch through the Large Professor. While traveling with Main Source, I meet a lot of other rappers, and MC Serch was one of them. I was trying to get a deal. I was shopping my shit everywhere, and everybody was telling me shit I didn't want to hear. Serch was the only one talking some for real business shit.

What kinds of things were people telling you?

They needed to hear clearer tapes, for one. They wanted to hear the kinda shit that was selling platinum, like "O.P.P.," some hook shit. They didn't wanna hear a brother, a nigga who takes his raps from the heart.

How were you making your demos then?

Out of Large Professor's apartment. He had a little SP-1200 and a mic, and I did it direct to tape.

Did you feel major labels are looking just for commercial rap?

Nah, I don't know what they're looking for. I don't even think they know. That part of my struggle is over. I got my record deal.

How did your deal with Colombia come about?

Through Serch's production. He's the one that put the whole thing together. He's the one that went down there and made the deal for him to produce me

Who are your favorite MCs?

Kool G Rap, Ice Cube, and Scarface. I like Rakim and LL Cool J. AZ, and Showbiz & AG.

How about the nicest group?

Brand Nubian, that's my favorite.



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