More Than “Life’s a Bitch”: The Lyricist Hip-Hop Doesn’t Talk About Enough

These past few months have been a blur for me. I was having a hard time figuring out what to write, what content to share with the public, and what I should be putting out versus simply trusting my instincts and creating the kind of content that made me start this website in the first place. To me, AZ is one of those artists who reminds me why I love Hip-Hop, why I created 3rdWorld Illestrators®, and why I want a career in music PR and journalism.

I've always wondered why conversations about the greatest emcees usually revolve around names like Nas, Jay-Z, and Biggie, and rightfully so, because they've each left their mark on Hip-Hop. But I rarely hear AZ mentioned in those same conversations. In this household, though? He was always mentioned.

Let's be real for a moment. People first got a real taste of AZ when he appeared on Nas' Illmatic (1994). He's best known for his unforgettable verse on Life's a Bitch, and in my personal opinion, he had the best verse on the song. I think a lot of real Hip-Hop heads would agree. AZ and Nas have always been one of my favorite duos whenever they link up. Their chemistry is effortless, and every collaboration feels like two elite lyricists pushing each other. On top of that, AZ has one of the most recognizable voices and cadences in Hip-Hop. The moment you hear him rap, you know exactly who it is.

What I admire most about AZ is that he never chased the spotlight. He wasn't flashy, he stayed true to himself and his lyricism. Because of that, I honestly think he was overshadowed by some of his peers. But for those who truly appreciate bars, storytelling, and substance, AZ is that man.

AZ is the definition of a wordsmith. Every time he raps, his words stick with you. His flow is dope, his delivery is smooth, and every verse paints a picture. He has that New York swag and personality that can never be duplicated by anyone else.

I was introduced to AZ by my dad, his favorite emcee of all time, and I completely understand why. Growing up, my dad taught me to really listen to Hip-Hop. Not just the beat or the catchiness, but the lyrics. What is the artist actually saying? Does the song have depth? Is there substance behind the words? Those lessons completely changed how I listen to music today. Hip-Hop has different styles, and not every song needs to be lyrically inclined. I have those moments when listening to music, but when you think back to it, lyricism will always top any “catchy” hook.

To me, AZ belongs in every "greatest emcee" conversation. His lyricism makes you want to close your eyes and picture every line he's saying. That's a rare gift that not every rapper has, and it's one of the reasons I wish he received more recognition.

AZ's debut album, Doe or Die (1995), is one of those classic albums where every track showcases his raw talent. Gimme Yours, Ho Happy Jackie, Rather Unique, I Feel for You, Sugar Hill, and Mo Money, Mo Murder (Homicide) are some of my personal favorites and songs I go back to often.

One of my favorite memories was seeing AZ perform in 2018 when he opened for M.O.P. My dad immediately bought tickets for me and my brother because, honestly, we were there for AZ. I was front row, probably one of the youngest in the room, rapping every lyric word for word.

Before the concert, my dad challenged me and my brother to memorize a 16 from one of AZ’s songs so we could rap it to him if we got the chance to meet. I picked the opening verse from The Come Up off his A.W.O.L. (2004) album. Unfortunately, AZ never came out for the meet-and-greet (LOL), but honestly, I didn't even care. Just seeing one of my favorite emcees perform live was good enough for me.

I'm also loving the comeback AZ has had with Doe or Die II (2022), Truth Be Told (2023), and now Doe or Die III (2026). It's a reminder that longevity in Hip-Hop isn't just about staying relevant and chasing what’s hot, it's about staying true to who you are.

When I listen to AZ, I think of Hip-Hop in its purest form. I think of authenticity. I think of lyricism. I think of an artist who never sacrificed his style, delivery, or dopeness for fame. 

If you're new to AZ, here are a few songs I recommend you start with.

© 2026 Lauryn C. Powell