Nas, with the soulful voice of Lauryn Hill, brings us “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That),” a track that paints a picture of a world filled with positivity and freed from the chains of societal issues. Nas dreams of a world where oppression and inequality are nonexistent and love and unity prevail. He touches on serious topics like mass incarceration, systemic racism, and the power of knowledge. Lauryn Hill’s chorus ties it all together, dreaming of liberation and success. The song reflects Nas’s yearning for change and a better future, especially for the African-American community.
Ever wondered what the world would look like if it were free from oppression and inequality? Nas and Lauryn Hill give us a taste of that utopia in “If I Ruled the World.”
“If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” Lyrics Meaning
“Life, I wonder, Will it take me under, I don’t know” — Nas starts the song deeply contemplating life and its uncertainties.
“Imagine smoking weed in the streets without cops harassin'” — He envisions a world where simple pleasures don’t attract legal trouble.
“Imagine going to court with no trial” — He dreams of a just legal system.
“Lifestyle, cruising blue Bahama waters, No welfare supporters, more conscious of the way we raise our daughters” — He imagines a luxurious life and a society that values and protects women.
“Days are shorter, nights are colder, Feeling like life is over, these snakes strike like a cobra” — He reflects on life’s hardships and the presence of deceitful people.
“The world’s hot, my son got knocked, Evidently, it’s elementary, they want us all gone eventually” — Nas addresses the systemic issues and the targeting of African American youth.
“If I ruled the world (imagine that), I’d free all my sons, I love ’em, love ’em, baby, Black diamonds and pearls” — Lauryn Hill’s chorus introduces the dream of liberation and wealth for the African American community.
“You love to hear the story how the thugs live in worry” — Nas dives into the harsh realities of street life.
“If I ruled the world and everything in it, sky’s the limit, I push the Q-45 Infinit'” — With power, he would push for the ultimate success and freedom.
“It wouldn’t be no such thing as jealousies, or B felony” — He dreams of a world free from envy and minor criminal charges that can ruin lives.
“Strictly living longevity to the destiny” — Nas emphasizes living a long, fulfilled life.
“I thought I’d never see, but reality struck, Better find out before your time’s out, what the fuck” — He reflects on the unexpected turns of life and the urgency to figure things out.
Nas and Lauryn Hill create a powerful narrative of a dream world, free from societal chains, while also reflecting on the harsh realities of life.
The Story Behind “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)”
Nas, born Nasir Jones, has always been vocal about social issues, especially those affecting the African-American community. When creating “If I Ruled the World,” his state of mind was one of hope and a desire for change. He was looking at the world, seeing the injustice and inequality, and he envisioned a better future. Through his lyrics, he expresses his yearning for a society where his people are free, prosperous, and treated with respect.
Lauryn Hill, who was at the peak of her career with The Fugees, brought her soulful voice and shared vision to the track. Together, they created a song that not only dreams of a utopia but also acknowledges the existing societal issues, making listeners reflect on the world and their role in it.
Nas wrote this song not just as a reflection of his thoughts and dreams, but also as a call to action, urging listeners to envision and work toward a better world.