Nas, Joe Budden and how to set the bar high like a true Virgo

Much like the name suggests, ‘Rapstrology’ celebrates the beautiful (and curiously slept-on) intersection between hip-hop and astrology. Whether exploring the Zodiac is a guilty pleasure hobby, something to roll one’s eyes at, or a swear-by daily guide to WTF is going on, this column aims to explore the roadmap that is astrology, through the context of hip-hop, lyrics and current events.

Before sitting down to write this, it was only right that I cleaned my entire apartment. In the spirit of Virgo season, I had to make sure that I had everything I needed and all else was in its proper place before I could even begin. My laptop battery had to be on 100 percent, and my workspace had to be organized with a freshly opened seltzer remaining in arm’s reach at all times and a subtle, but not distracting, news program playing in the background.

When it comes to perfection, especially in the workplace, Virgos thrive. With self-improvement at the forefront, each of the elements mentioned above is representative of someone who’s hardworking. Virgos are critical thinkers and will try not to let you down. In other words, world, meet Virgo. Virgo already knows everything about you, world.

This earth sign, falling between Aug. 23 and Sept. 22, is well-represented by the allure of back-to-school shopping. During this time, you may find that summer nostalgia kicks in and many are eager to start the next chapter in life. One can be keen to try new things like journaling, buying new sneakers, doing new challenges. Dedicated to maintaining high standards and trying to make the world a better place, Virgos prides themselves on being the best they can be. While they can be a perfectionist to a fault, and occasionally neurotic by nature, Virgos are a sign of genuine intention.

As someone who frequently appears on fans’ top five list, Nas is a quintessential Virgo who has secured his place in rap history through his top-tier lyricism, respect for the craft and a commitment to showmanship. While his legacy-building hasn’t been a perfect road, he has shown vulnerability and honesty, as he shares his perspectives and life experiences through his music.

When accused of physical and mental abuse by his ex-wife, Kelis, Nas took months to respond to the statements. Thus, drawing more criticism due to the climate of the #MeToo movement. One can only assume the silence was due to his Virgo mind going over every detail and processing the situation, as well as his emotions, among other things. While setting aside this particular conversation for another day, Nas, like Virgos in general, must be open to learning the practice of surrendering and how to foster healthy relationships. Virgos often struggle with accepting flaws, whether their own or others.

Virgo, similar to Gemini, is ruled by Mercury, which is the God of communication. As such, intellectuals, creatives, and forward-thinkers should often be born under this sign. Virgos like to create a safe space, often finding sanctuary in their own homes, and build their identity around being loyal, analytical, practical, kind, and caring. Virgos such as Joe Budden, Lil Yachty, Wiz Khalifa, Playboi Carti, Famous Dex, 2 Chainz, YBN Cordae, Skepta and Wale, among others, each have worked extremely hard to stand out from the crowd and have developed strong personas along the way.

Now that we have covered some of the necessary groundwork surrounding all things Virgo, let’s take a look at some lyrical takeaways to keep in mind, and when the mood strikes, on repeat.

“Virgo” – Nas featuring Ludacris and Doug E. Fresh

Lyrical Mantra: “Baby girl, won’t you come and hold my hand? / Won’t you come and chill out with the Virgo? / Hey girl, just come and hold my hand / Won’t you come and just chill with the Virgo?”

Virgo’ism: While some say this song is about a girl that Nas had a crush on, there are some conflicting ideologies in it. While Virgos do like to wine and dine their partners, it’s more about seeing if they can build a life together than casual flings. The next line, “We sippin’ on Merlot, you ain’t got be my girl, though,” shows Nas is trying to keep it fresh. But, it also shows that his ego gets the best of him. He’s also famously stated that Doug E. Fresh is the best Virgo rapper, which shows how he likes to pay respect where respect is due.

Joe Budden’s Funkmaster Flex Freestyle

Lyrical Mantra: “Got the vision of a Virgo, nah, it’s more to know / I got the vision of a Virgo, nah, it’s more to Joe / See nightmares when you look into my eyes, that’s just my horror-scope / And who you looking to try?”

Virgo’ism: Joe Budden proudly claims #VirgoSeason. After all, he checks many of the boxes such as being stubborn, insightful, passionate, analytical, resourceful, and someone who enjoys playing devil’s advocate. There are many layers to the man that is Joe Budden, and that is something he is immensely proud of. Just listen to one episode of “State of the Culture” and see how quickly the Virgo jumps out.

Song: “4AM” – 2Chainz featuring Travis Scott

Lyrical Mantra: “4 AM, I’m just gettin’ started / For my birthday I threw me a surprise party / Reminiscin’ ’bout the trap, playin’ the first Carter / My life changed when I had my first daughter.”

Virgo’ism: 2 Chainz is a man of taste. From his TV show celebrating the more beautiful things in life to him discussing how fatherhood has made him a better man, 2 Chainz is as down-to-earth as he can flex on wax. The rapper is all about upgrading his life and situation, and elevating his mindset along the way. So, of course, no one is better suited to know how to celebrate his birthday than he is.

Song: “Dirty Mouth” – Lil Yachty

Lyrical Mantra: “I don’t really care about my enemies / My new crib came with amenities / You gotta pay for my energy / You gotta pay for my ohh, ehh.”

Virgo’ism: Lil Yachty once stated that he felt misunderstood about where he was coming from, which is the plight of many Virgos. Perhaps to compensate, or to showcase another layer of his personality, Lil Yachty turns to his alter-ego, Lil Boat, which he describes as a “ruthless dude.” However, he needs to approach getting his self-expression game on, and he’s going to do whatever is necessary to get there. It’s just the Virgo in him.

“Betrayed” – Lil Xan

Lyrical Mantra: “How you make it up? How you fake a love? / Holy son, I was the chosen one / I’m sippin’ out the grail, she don’t kiss and tell / She keep my wishes well, I don’t need her, well / Oh, yeah, how my enemy a friend of me? / Why y’all feed off my energy? / Like I ain’t dead yet, higher entity.”

Virgo’ism: Lil Xan is a sensitive guy. He’s had his fair share of negative and positive press, and at the end of the day, finds ways to relate with his fans who are also really going through it. It is what he has built his brand on, and as long as he can learn how to not be so hard on himself, it’s safe to say the potential in his talent will remain ever-present. Lots of people are rooting for him. So, if he works on being mindful of his energy, he’ll rise above his challenges.

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