Carl Thomas’ “Summer Rain” & Other Songs You Didn’t Know Heavy D Wrote/Produced

The Don- Nas

The story behind this collaboration for Nas’ Life is Good album is a very nice one. The song began with Heavy D. He originally presented the reggae song “Dance in New York” by Super Cat to Nas’ frequent producing partner Salaam Remi. Heavy D., who had already done some editing to the song, believed Remi could choose an appropriate point to sample. He reportedly explained the concept he had in mind. Remi began production on the song. During his work, he learned of Heavy D.’s passing, which gave him the push to finish producing. The final lyrics for the song, Nas says, “Heavy D gave this beat to Salaam for me to rap to.” In the video, as he delivers the line, he brings his hands together in prayer motion and looks toward the sky.