The couple's highly publicized marriage ended in a messy divorce in 2009.
Rather than a big pop hook, Kelis provides soulful, hypnotic background vocals and harmonies that echo the song's primary mantra: "I won't go back again." Nas - Not Going Back ft. Kelis
stands out as one of the most mature, protective, and introspective tracks on Hip Hop Is Dead . It may not have the mainstream punch of the album's bigger singles, but it serves as a fascinating, bittersweet time capsule of two hip-hop powerhouses at the height of their romance. Not Going Back The couple's highly publicized marriage ended in a
The song features his then-wife, Kelis. The intro features a chaotic, cinematic skit of the couple arguing in a car before speeding off together, establishing a highly protective, unified front against the outside world. 🎤 Performance & Production Not Going Back The song features his then-wife, Kelis
Nas explicitly lists things he is leaving behind, including fake friends, bad record label deals, and the dangerous realities of his old neighborhood.
While the song was originally recorded as a celebration of their union and joint success, listening to it today offers a heavy dose of irony: