Many critics view this as one of the last major hits of Ja Rule's career before his legal issues and the federal investigation into Murder Inc.. Controversy and Cultural Impact
A spiritual successor titled "New York Is Back" appeared on DJ Khaled's 2007 album, We the Best .
The video was directed by Juan Carlos and filmed on location across various neighborhoods in New York City.
It is well-known for featuring an extensive list of local hip-hop icons and celebrities, including: Jennifer Lopez Styles P and members of The Lox Remy Ma , Jim Jones , and Lil Wayne Havoc (of Mobb Deep), N.O.R.E. , and Irv Gotti Chart Performance and Critical Reception
released on October 27, 2004, is a defining East Coast hip-hop anthem that served as a street-centric tribute to the city and a pivotal moment in mid-2000s rap rivalries. As the second single from Ja Rule's sixth studio album, R.U.L.E. , the track features powerhouse collaborations with Fat Joe and Jadakiss, representing the Bronx and Yonkers respectively. Production and Musical Style
The chorus is based on the 1990 song "100 Guns" by Boogie Down Productions. It also contains uncredited slowed-down elements of "Nkalakatha" by South African artist Mandoza.
