Nas, whose full name is Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, is a highly acclaimed American rapper and songwriter. Born on September 14, 1973, in Brooklyn, New York, Nas is regarded as one of the most influential and skilled lyricists in the hip-hop genre.
Nas gained widespread recognition with the release of his debut album, “Illmatic,” in 1994. “Illmatic” is often considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, showcasing Nas’ intricate lyricism, storytelling, and social commentary. Throughout his career, Nas has continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including “It Was Written” (1996), “Stillmatic” (2001), “God’s Son” (2002), and “Life Is Good” (2012).
Known for his thought-provoking and introspective lyrics, Nas has addressed a wide range of social issues, including racism, poverty, and the challenges of urban life. His ability to craft vivid narratives and convey complex ideas has solidified his status as a hip-hop legend.
Nas has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the genre, including Grammy Awards and recognition as one of the greatest rappers of all time by various publications. His impact on the hip-hop landscape extends beyond his music, as he has played a significant role in shaping the cultural and artistic direction of the genre.
1. Hate Me Now
“Hate Me Now” is a song by Nas featuring Puff Daddy (now known as Diddy), released in 1999. It’s part of Nas’ third studio album, “I Am…,” which came out in the same year. The track is known for its powerful and energetic production, as well as the impactful collaboration between Nas and Diddy.
The song addresses the challenges and criticisms Nas faced during his career, acknowledging the hate and negativity that often accompany success. The chorus, with Diddy proclaiming “Hate me now, but I won’t stop now,” reflects a defiant attitude and determination in the face of adversity.
The music video for “Hate Me Now” is notable for its cinematic and dramatic visuals, featuring Nas on a cross reminiscent of crucifixion—a move that generated some controversy at the time.
“Hate Me Now” received critical acclaim and was a commercial success. It remains one of Nas’ well-known and impactful tracks, showcasing his ability to address personal and industry struggles through his lyrics. The song’s memorable chorus and intense production have contributed to its lasting legacy in hip-hop.
2. If I Ruled The World
“If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is a classic hip-hop song by Nas featuring Lauryn Hill. The track was released in 1996 as a single from Nas’ second studio album, “It Was Written.” It became one of Nas’ most successful and recognizable songs.
The song is known for its optimistic and aspirational lyrics, where Nas reflects on his dreams and envisions a world where he has the power to make positive changes. Lauryn Hill contributes the soulful chorus, singing a sample from the 1985 Whodini hit “Friends.”
“If I Ruled the World” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim. The song’s production, which samples the musical composition from the musical “West Side Story,” and the collaboration between Nas and Lauryn Hill contributed to its widespread popularity.
The track remains a fan favorite and is often cited as one of Nas’ signature songs. Its enduring appeal lies in its combination of Nas’ introspective lyrics, Lauryn Hill’s soulful vocals, and the overall positive and hopeful vibe of the song.
3. Take It In Blood
“Take It In Blood” is a song by Nas, an American rapper, from his second studio album, “It Was Written,” released in 1996. Nas, born Nasir Jones, is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential lyricists in the history of hip-hop.
In “Take It In Blood,” Nas delves into complex storytelling and reflective lyricism. The song explores themes such as street life, survival, and the harsh realities of urban environments. Nas uses vivid and detailed language to paint a picture of the challenges faced in his surroundings, providing listeners with a glimpse into his experiences.
The title “Take It In Blood” suggests a sense of inevitability or acceptance of the circumstances Nas and others like him face. The track features a laid-back, jazzy production, a departure from the more straightforward and raw sound of Nas’s debut album, “Illmatic.” Despite the shift in style, Nas’s lyricism remains sharp and thought-provoking.
“Take It In Blood” is often celebrated for Nas’s storytelling ability and his skill in conveying the complexities of life in the streets. The track is a testament to Nas’s enduring impact on the genre and his ability to navigate between street narratives and introspective commentary in his music.
4. One Mic
“One Mic” is a powerful and introspective song by Nas from his sixth studio album, “Stillmatic,” released in 2001. Nas, known for his intricate lyricism and storytelling prowess, uses “One Mic” to reflect on social issues, personal struggles, and the power of self-expression.
The title, “One Mic,” suggests the idea of having a singular voice, emphasizing the significance of one’s individual perspective and the impact it can have. The song addresses themes such as poverty, violence, and the quest for personal empowerment.
The production, crafted by Nas and Chucky Thompson, features a sample from Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight” and contributes to the song’s intense and cinematic atmosphere. The beat builds gradually, mirroring the increasing intensity of Nas’s delivery as the song progresses.
In the lyrics, Nas discusses the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the desire for change, and the importance of using one’s voice to make a difference. The hook, with the repeated line “All I need is one mic,” underscores the notion that sometimes all it takes is one platform, one opportunity, to convey a powerful message.
“One Mic” is often praised not only for its lyrical depth but also for Nas’s impassioned delivery and the impactful production. It stands out as one of Nas’s signature tracks and a classic in the realm of conscious hip-hop.
5. N.Y. State Of Mind
“N.Y. State of Mind” is a classic hip-hop track by Nas, released on his debut album “Illmatic” in 1994. Produced by DJ Premier, the song is widely regarded as one of Nas’ most iconic and influential works.
The lyrics of “N.Y. State of Mind” paint a vivid picture of life in New York City, particularly in the borough of Queens where Nas grew up. The song explores the challenges, dangers, and complexities of urban life, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of the environment Nas navigated.
DJ Premier’s production on the track is characterized by a jazzy piano loop and a raw, minimalist beat, creating a perfect backdrop for Nas’ intricate lyricism. The track is known for its atmospheric and evocative sound, capturing the essence of the mid-1990s East Coast hip-hop scene.
“N.Y. State of Mind” is often cited as one of the standout tracks on “Illmatic,” an album widely considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Nas’ lyrical prowess and storytelling on this particular track have solidified its place in hip-hop history, and it continues to be celebrated as a cornerstone of the genre.
6. Daughters
“Daughters” is a song by Nas from his tenth studio album, “Life Is Good,” released in 2012. The song addresses the complexities and challenges of raising a daughter and reflects on Nas’s experiences as a father. It offers a candid and introspective look at the impact of fatherhood on his life.
In “Daughters,” Nas discusses his concerns, regrets, and aspirations regarding his relationship with his daughter. He reflects on the challenges of being a responsible father and the influence he has on his daughter’s life. The lyrics touch on issues such as the impact of fame, the challenges of balancing personal life with a public career, and the importance of setting a positive example.
The track features a reflective and melodic production, and Nas’s storytelling and introspective lyricism shine through. The chorus emphasizes the theme of the song, highlighting the importance of guiding and protecting one’s daughters.
“Daughters” received critical acclaim for its honesty and vulnerability, offering a unique perspective on the rapper’s personal life. The song showcases Nas’s ability to explore emotional and personal themes in his music, adding depth to his discography. It stands out as a heartfelt and introspective track that resonates with listeners on a more personal level.
7. I Can
“I Can” is a socially conscious and inspirational hip-hop song by Nas, released on his seventh studio album, “God’s Son,” in 2002. The track is produced by Salaam Remi and features a prominent sample from Beethoven’s “Für Elise.”
“I Can” delivers a positive and motivational message, encouraging listeners, especially the youth, to overcome obstacles, pursue education, and strive for success. Nas addresses issues such as self-empowerment, cultural pride, and the importance of education in the lyrics. The chorus features children singing the uplifting refrain, “I know I can be what I wanna be, if I work hard at it, I’ll be where I wanna be.”
The song received critical acclaim for its positive message and social relevance. It resonated with audiences as a motivational anthem and became one of Nas’ commercially successful tracks. “I Can” stands out as a departure from Nas’ earlier street-oriented narratives, showcasing his ability to address a broader range of themes in his music.
The enduring appeal of “I Can” lies in its timeless message of empowerment and resilience, making it a standout track in Nas’ extensive discography.
8. Got Ur Self A…
“Got Ur Self A…” is a track by Nas from his sixth studio album, “Stillmatic,” released in 2001. The song is known for its gritty lyrics and production, and it reflects Nas’ street-oriented style.
In “Got Ur Self A…,” Nas addresses themes such as street life, survival, and the challenges of navigating a harsh urban environment. The title itself is a colloquial expression that implies achieving success or obtaining something desirable, often with a self-reliant or determined attitude.
The production, handled by Salaam Remi and Chucky Thompson, features a sample from the 1975 song “Dr. Love” by First Choice. Nas’ delivery and lyricism in “Got Ur Self A…” are characteristic of his style, blending intricate wordplay with a portrayal of his experiences and observations.
The track received positive reviews for its lyrical content and production, contributing to the critical acclaim of the “Stillmatic” album. Nas’ ability to combine storytelling with social commentary has been a hallmark of his career, and “Got Ur Self A…” is considered a noteworthy example of his work in the early 2000s.
9. Suspect
“Suspect” is a compelling track from Nas’s 1996 album “It Was Written.” The song delves into themes of paranoia, trust, and the challenges of navigating a world filled with deception. Nas’s vivid storytelling and intricate wordplay paint a vivid picture of the treacherous environments he has encountered. The dark and atmospheric production enhances the overall mood of the track, creating a sense of tension that mirrors the narrative of suspicion and caution.
10. One On One
“One On One” is a collaborative effort featuring Nas, Millenium Thug, and Bravehearts. The track exudes a laid-back vibe with a smooth beat, providing a platform for the artists to showcase their lyrical prowess. “One On One” explores themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and the pursuit of success, making it a standout addition to Nas’s diverse body of work. The collaborative nature of the track highlights Nas’s ability to collaborate seamlessly with other artists while maintaining his distinctive style.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
