About
Every lyric is part of a bigger story. So is Decoded.
I'm Nadia. I was introduced to hip hop at a young age (thanks to my older brother) and I fell in love with not just with the beats but the culture, the stories, the words.
As a British listener with a love for US hip hop, there are are a few barriers to cross. While the English language may not be so different, the slang, local dialects and cultural references often carry layers of meaning that can take time to unpack.
Every breakdown on Decoded is informed by curiosity, deep research and a love for the culture (that can not be taught). My approach is to explain without simplifying or overcomplicating — highlight the craft without loosing the fun!
Decoded started as my Masters project as a way to bring my fascination to life. Very much a passion project, it has grown into a space where listeners can explore lyrics, understand the craft behind hip hop music and appreciate the artisry in every line.
Whether you're a casual listener, an avid fan looking to dive deeper or someone studying the artistry of hip hop lyrics, Decoded is here to guide you. My hope is that every post helps you discover something new — be it a hidden reference, a clever phrase or a lyric that just makes you nod in appreciation.
Decoded is an independent project, built by a fan for fans, and it continues to grow as I explore more artists, songs, and techniques. As it grows I'd love your help to make it even better!