Meaning of "White Label" by Nas

The lyrics of "White Label" delve into Nas's success and the journey he has taken in the music industry. He starts by asserting his dominance and warning others not to come around him with anything fake or fraudulent, emphasizing his discerning taste. Nas goes on to describe his experiences of fame and fortune, name-dropping the Met Gala and La Scala while poking fun at himself for indulging in the lifestyle of a "bottom feeder." He mentions fasting and seeing "Elijah's features," potentially indicating a spiritual revelation or search for higher meaning amidst material success.

Nas also highlights his financial value as an artist, stating that his feature is worth a million dollars, yet he would do it for free for those who reciprocate the favor. This reflects his confidence in his craft and his understanding of his worth in the industry. He goes on to portray his lavish lifestyle, staying in expensive hotels and being surrounded by beautiful women. However, these luxuries do not bring him peace of mind as he mentions losing sleep and potentially feeling empty, observing that material possessions and physical beauty do not satisfy the soul.

In the latter part of the song, Nas reflects on his journey from starting with nothing to becoming successful. He acknowledges that if someone had told him back then that he would achieve wealth and start his own business, he would have thought it was a joke. He also mentions the friends and acquaintances he left behind, hinting at their involvement in illegal activities. Nas attributes his success to a moment of realization during his youth when he cut classes and indulged in substance use, noting that this rebellious act sparked a creative flame within him. He further showcases his ambition by highlighting his desire for a woman who represents the epitome of style and fashion.

Towards the end of the song, Nas raises a toast to the Kanye West-produced track and expresses his enjoyment of the journey, comparing it to drinking carefree like Dean Martin. He concludes with the line, "My nigga High said it's me, I drive 'em all crazy," indicating his confidence and ability to captivate audiences through his music.