Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, is a highly influential rapper and songwriter known for his intricate lyricism and socially conscious themes. Hailing from Queensbridge, New York City, Nas emerged in the 1990s as one of the leading figures in East Coast hip-hop. His debut album, “Illmatic,” released in 1994, is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Nas’ storytelling abilities, poetic imagery, and insightful commentary on urban life have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. He continues to be a prominent figure in hip-hop, releasing music that reflects his introspective and insightful perspective.
1. N.Y. State of Mind
“N.Y. State of Mind” is a song by rapper Nas, featured on his debut album “Illmatic,” released in 1994. Produced by DJ Premier, the track is celebrated for its vivid depiction of urban life in New York City, particularly in the Queensbridge housing projects where Nas grew up.
The song’s lyrics are a gritty and introspective narrative of life in the streets, showcasing Nas’ storytelling prowess and lyrical dexterity. The track’s haunting piano sample and hard-hitting beat, characteristic of DJ Premier’s production style, perfectly complement Nas’ raw and vivid lyrics, creating a cinematic experience for listeners.
“N.Y. State of Mind” is often cited as one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time, praised for its vivid storytelling, evocative imagery, and Nas’ impeccable delivery. It has become a quintessential track in Nas’ discography and a landmark in East Coast hip-hop history.
2. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)
“If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is a song by Nas featuring Lauryn Hill, released in 1996 on Nas’ second studio album, “It Was Written.”
The song samples the 1985 hit “Friends” by Whodini and features Lauryn Hill on the chorus, singing a reimagined version of the chorus from the original song. Nas’ lyrics in “If I Ruled the World” reflect on his aspirations and visions of a better world, touching on themes of power, wealth distribution, and social change. The song’s chorus, “If I ruled the world, imagine that, I’d free all my sons, I love ’em love ’em baby,” expresses Nas’ desire for a world without oppression and inequality.
Musically, “If I Ruled the World” features a smooth, jazzy beat and a laid-back vibe, complemented by Nas’ introspective lyrics and Lauryn Hill’s soulful vocals. The song was a commercial success, receiving critical acclaim for its message and musicality. It remains one of Nas’ most popular and enduring songs, often cited as a classic of 1990s hip-hop.
3. The World Is Yours
“The World Is Yours” is a song by rapper Nas, featured on his debut album “Illmatic,” released in 1994. Produced by Pete Rock, the track is celebrated for its mellow yet gritty production and Nas’ introspective lyrics.
The song’s title is a reference to the 1983 film “Scarface,” in which the main character, Tony Montana, famously declares “The world is yours.” Nas uses this phrase to convey a sense of empowerment and ambition, urging listeners to seize opportunities and strive for greatness. The lyrics reflect on life in the inner city, with Nas discussing his dreams, struggles, and determination to succeed.
Musically, “The World Is Yours” features a smooth piano sample from Ahmad Jamal’s “I Love Music” and a laid-back drum beat, characteristic of Pete Rock’s production style. Nas’ delivery is confident and poetic, showcasing his storytelling abilities and lyrical prowess.
“The World Is Yours” is often cited as one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time, praised for its lyrical depth, musicality, and impact. It has become a signature track in Nas’ discography and a classic of 1990s hip-hop.
4. One Mic
“One Mic” is a song by Nas, released in 2002 on his sixth studio album, “Stillmatic.” Produced by Nas and Chucky Thompson, the track is known for its raw intensity and powerful lyrical content.
“One Mic” features a haunting piano melody and a sparse, ominous beat, creating a dark and atmospheric backdrop for Nas’ introspective lyrics. The song’s title refers to Nas’ desire to speak with the power of a microphone, using his voice to address social issues and personal struggles. The lyrics touch on themes of violence, poverty, and the desire for change, with Nas delivering each verse with passion and conviction.
The song’s music video, directed by Chris Robinson, features a single continuous shot and captures the intensity of Nas’ performance. “One Mic” received critical acclaim upon its release and is often cited as one of Nas’ greatest songs. It has become a fan favorite and a classic of 2000s hip-hop.
5. Life’s a Bitch
“Life’s a Bitch” is a song by Nas, featuring AZ, released on Nas’s debut album “Illmatic” in 1994. The track reflects on the struggles and hardships of life in the inner city, highlighting themes of poverty, crime, and survival. Nas’s introspective lyrics and AZ’s poignant verses provide a raw and unfiltered perspective on urban life, with a blend of street wisdom and lyrical skill. “Life’s a Bitch” is celebrated for its vivid storytelling, social commentary, and its portrayal of the challenges faced by marginalized communities, making it a standout track in hip-hop history.
6. Hate Me Now
“Hate Me Now” is a song by Nas featuring Puff Daddy, released in 1999 on Nas’ third studio album, “I Am…”
The song is known for its dramatic production, featuring orchestral elements and a powerful beat. The lyrics address Nas’ critics and detractors, with Nas asserting his dominance in the rap game and proclaiming that nothing can stop him from achieving success. Puff Daddy’s chorus reinforces this message, with the repeated line “Hate me now, but I won’t stop now.”
The music video for “Hate Me Now” was controversial upon its release, featuring imagery of Nas being crucified, which led to criticism from religious groups. Despite the controversy, the song was a commercial success, receiving critical acclaim for its powerful lyrics and intense production. It has become one of Nas’ most popular and enduring songs, often cited as a classic of late 1990s hip-hop.
7. One Love
“One Love” is a classic reggae song by Bob Marley and the Wailers, released in 1977 on their album “Exodus.” The song carries a message of unity, peace, and love, advocating for harmony among people despite hardships and divisions. Bob Marley’s soulful vocals and the infectious reggae rhythm create a mesmerizing and uplifting atmosphere, making “One Love” an iconic anthem of hope and positivity. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its universal message of love transcending boundaries, resonating with listeners worldwide as a call for solidarity and understanding among all humanity.
8. It Ain’t Hard to Tell
“It Ain’t Hard to Tell” is a song by Nas, released in 1994 on his debut album “Illmatic.” Known for its intricate lyricism and Nas’s impeccable flow, the track samples Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature” and features production by Large Professor. The song’s lyrics showcase Nas’s storytelling prowess and keen observations of inner-city life, blending personal introspection with vivid imagery. “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” has been praised for its lyrical complexity, cultural impact, and contribution to the golden era of hip-hop. It remains a standout track in Nas’s discography and a defining song of the 1990s hip-hop landscape.
9. Made You Look
“Made You Look” is a song by Nas, released in 2002 on his seventh studio album, “God’s Son.”
Produced by Salaam Remi, the track features a sample from the Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache” and is known for its energetic beat and aggressive lyrics. The song’s title and chorus refer to Nas’ ability to capture listeners’ attention and command respect in the rap game.
“Made You Look” is considered one of Nas’ signature songs, showcasing his lyrical prowess and confident delivery. The song’s music video features Nas in various gritty urban settings, emphasizing the song’s streetwise attitude.
“Made You Look” was a commercial success, receiving critical acclaim for its production and Nas’ performance. It has become a fan favorite and a staple of Nas’ live performances, often cited as one of the standout tracks from “God’s Son” and a classic of 2000s hip-hop.
10. I Can
“I Can” is a song by Nas, released in 2003 on his seventh studio album, “God’s Son.”
The song’s lyrics are uplifting and inspirational, with Nas encouraging listeners, especially children, to believe in themselves and strive for greatness. The chorus features the repeated line “I know I can (I know I can) be what I wanna be (be what I wanna be),” conveying a message of empowerment and self-confidence.
“I Can” samples the song “Beethoven’s 9th Symphony” and features a positive, upbeat production that complements the song’s message. The music video for “I Can” features Nas interacting with children and promoting education and self-improvement.
“I Can” was a commercial success, receiving critical acclaim for its positive message and catchy melody. It has become one of Nas’ most popular songs and is often cited as a highlight of “God’s Son.” The song’s message of self-empowerment and positivity has resonated with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless hip-hop anthem.
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.
