“All Bad” from Nas’s 2020 album *King’s Disease* is a reflective track that explores relationship regret, featuring Anderson .Paak on the chorus. The song stands out not only for its smooth blend of rap and soul but also for the introspective, emotionally vulnerable angle Nas adopts. With Hit-Boy’s production laying down a soulful, mellow beat, “All Bad” captures the listener with its warmth while maintaining a sense of melancholy that perfectly aligns with the song’s themes.

The track revolves around the idea of relationships gone wrong, where mistrust and misunderstandings lead to painful outcomes. Nas uses his verses to narrate the complexities of love, especially in a world filled with distractions and temptations. The lyrical content dives deep into Nas’s personal reflections, exploring how fame, lifestyle, and poor decisions can flaw romantic relationships. Anderson .Paak’s raspy vocals in the chorus echo this sentiment, almost as if he’s commiserating with Nas. His delivery is both soulful and raw, adding an extra layer of pain and nostalgia to the track. With lines like “Wasn’t all bad / Could’ve been worse,” he reflects on the dual nature of relationships, where even in the end, one can appreciate the good times amidst the heartbreak.

One of the song’s strengths is how it blends nostalgia with self-awareness, showcasing Nas’s growth as an artist and person. At this point in his career, Nas is well-acquainted with fame and the pitfalls that accompany it. His reflective style on “All Bad” demonstrates a maturity, as he looks back on past mistakes without romanticizing them. This track resonates because it highlights that even celebrities, who seem to lead lives of privilege and excitement, experience emotional struggles and failures in relationships just like anyone else.

Hit-Boy’s production amplifies the contemplative mood with a minimalistic beat driven by a subtle bassline, giving Nas’s lyrics room to breathe. The beat complements Anderson .Paak’s soulful crooning, resulting in a seamless interplay between verses and chorus. The subtle instrumentation, combined with the steady beat and occasional synth, makes the song feel like a late-night reflection session. It’s subdued yet impactful, capturing the bittersweet essence of looking back on what might have been.

“King’s Disease” as a whole marked a comeback for Nas, blending his signature sound with the freshness of contemporary production. The album brought Nas his first Grammy win for Best Rap Album, solidifying his continued relevance in the hip-hop landscape. With “All Bad,” Nas shows that he can collaborate with newer artists while maintaining his authenticity, proving that his music transcends generational shifts. Anderson .Paak’s feature here is no mere guest appearance—it’s an integral part of the song’s emotional impact. Their combined forces create a track that feels timeless, touching on themes that are universally relatable.

Ultimately, “All Bad” stands as a highlight on “King’s Disease”, not only for its polished production and smooth collaboration but also for its emotional depth. The song captures a sense of introspection that fans of Nas have come to appreciate, making it a memorable entry in his discography and a testament to his evolving artistry.

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