Nas, one of the most influential and revered figures in hip-hop, has left an indelible mark on the genre with his intricate lyricism and storytelling prowess. Since bursting onto the scene in the early 1990s with his groundbreaking debut album, “Illmatic”, Nas has consistently delivered thought-provoking and socially conscious music. His ability to paint vivid pictures of urban life, combined with his sophisticated wordplay, has earned him a place among the greatest rappers of all time. In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular Nas songs that have captivated audiences and solidified his legendary status. From the raw intensity of “N.Y. State of Mind” to the reflective and poignant “One Mic”, each track showcases a different facet of Nas’s artistry. These songs not only highlight his exceptional talent but also underscore his role in shaping the narrative of hip-hop. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Nas’s discography, this list offers a definitive guide to his most iconic and influential works. Join us as we explore the best of Nas and celebrate the music that continues to resonate with fans across generations.
1. Hate Me Now
“Hate Me Now” is one of Nas’s most impactful tracks, epitomizing his skillful lyricism and defiant spirit. Released in 1999 as a single from his fourth studio album, “Nastradamus”, the song is a bold declaration of resilience and self-assurance. Featuring a driving beat and a memorable chorus, the track captures Nas’s struggle against criticism and adversity.
The song’s production, handled by the renowned Timbaland, combines a hard-hitting rhythm with a dramatic orchestral sample, creating an intense and dynamic backdrop for Nas’s verses. Lyrically, Nas confronts his detractors with a fierce confidence, addressing his critics and affirming his place in the rap hierarchy. His delivery is both aggressive and introspective, reflecting his complex relationship with fame and success.
“Hate Me Now” stands out not only for its powerful message but also for its impact on Nas’s career. It marked a significant moment in his evolution as an artist, showcasing his ability to blend personal narrative with broader themes of struggle and triumph. The song remains a fan favorite and a quintessential example of Nas’s contributions to hip-hop.
2. If I Ruled The World
“If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is one of Nas’ most iconic tracks, standing as a testament to his lyrical prowess and vision. Released in 1996 as the lead single from his second album, “It Was Written”, the song features Lauryn Hill of The Fugees, whose soulful chorus elevates the track to another level. The song’s instrumental, produced by Trackmasters, samples Kurtis Blow’s “If I Ruled the World,” blending nostalgic elements with contemporary beats.
Lyrically, Nas envisions a utopian world free from oppression, crime, and injustice. He reflects on the struggles faced by the African American community, using vivid imagery and thought-provoking metaphors to paint a picture of hope and aspiration. The song’s themes resonate deeply, touching on issues such as systemic inequality and the desire for a better future.
“If I Ruled the World” was a commercial success, reaching number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning critical acclaim for its insightful content and exceptional production. It remains a fan favorite and a staple in Nas’ discography, often cited as one of his best works. The song’s enduring legacy highlights Nas’ influence in hip-hop and his ability to address social issues through his music.
3. Take It In Blood
“Take It In Blood” is a standout track from Nas’ critically acclaimed 1996 album “It Was Written”. Known for its introspective and intricate lyricism, the song showcases Nas’ storytelling prowess and complex rhyme schemes. The production, handled by Live Squad, features a smooth, jazzy instrumental that complements Nas’ reflective verses.
In “Take It In Blood,” Nas delves into themes of resilience, street life, and personal growth. He raps about his journey from the harsh realities of his environment to achieving success and recognition in the rap game. The title suggests a sense of sacrifice and determination, implying that Nas has earned his place through hard work and perseverance.
The track is notable for its vivid imagery and detailed narrative, with Nas painting pictures of his experiences and aspirations. His delivery is confident and measured, underscoring the depth of his lyrics. Lines like “I never brag, how real I keep it, ’cause it’s the best secret” highlight his humility and authenticity.
“Take It In Blood” was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its lyrical depth and smooth production. It remains a favorite among Nas’ supporters, exemplifying his ability to craft thought-provoking and engaging hip-hop music. The song contributes to the enduring legacy of “It Was Written” and solidifies Nas’ status as one of the greatest lyricists in rap history.
4. One Mic
“One Mic,” released in 2001 as a single from Nas’ fifth studio album “Stillmatic”, stands as one of his most powerful and influential tracks. The song showcases Nas’ lyrical genius and his ability to convey deep emotion and social commentary through his music. Produced by Chucky Thompson, “One Mic” features a minimalist beat that gradually builds in intensity, perfectly mirroring the rising urgency in Nas’ delivery.
Lyrically, “One Mic” is a passionate plea for peace and change, with Nas addressing issues such as violence, poverty, and the struggles of inner-city life. The song’s structure is unique, starting with a subdued, almost whispered tone before crescendoing into a fervent and intense outpouring of emotion. This dynamic shift enhances the impact of Nas’ words, making his message resonate even more strongly with listeners.
Nas uses the song to reflect on his own experiences and the broader socio-political landscape, emphasizing the power of a single voice to effect change. The line “All I need is one mic” underscores the idea that true power lies in the ability to speak truth and inspire others.
“One Mic” received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, emotional intensity, and innovative production. It became one of Nas’ most acclaimed songs, highlighting his talent for blending personal narrative with broader social issues. The song’s lasting impact and relevance continue to solidify Nas’ reputation as one of hip-hop’s most thoughtful and influential artists.
5. N.Y. State Of Mind
“N.Y. State of Mind,” from Nas’ landmark debut album “Illmatic” (1994), is a quintessential hip-hop classic that captures the gritty essence of New York City. Produced by DJ Premier, the track features a raw, haunting beat with a looping piano riff and a steady, hard-hitting drum pattern, setting the perfect backdrop for Nas’ vivid storytelling.
Lyrically, “N.Y. State of Mind” is a masterclass in urban narrative, with Nas painting a stark and realistic picture of life in the Queensbridge housing projects. The song opens with the memorable line, “Straight out the dungeons of rap, where fake niggas don’t make it back,” immediately setting the tone for the gritty realism that follows. Nas’ intricate rhyme schemes and detailed imagery bring the listener into his world, describing the struggles, dangers, and aspirations of street life.
The track is notable for its stream-of-consciousness flow, where Nas seamlessly weaves together scenes of survival and resilience. His ability to capture the essence of his environment with such precision and authenticity has earned “N.Y. State of Mind” critical acclaim and admiration from fans and fellow artists alike.
“N.Y. State of Mind” is not just a song; it’s a cinematic portrayal of the urban experience, cementing Nas’ status as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. Its impact on the genre is profound, influencing countless artists and contributing to the enduring legacy of “Illmatic” as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.
6. Daughters
“Daughters,” released in 2012 as part of Nas’ tenth studio album “Life Is Good”, is a poignant and introspective track that explores themes of fatherhood, family dynamics, and personal responsibility. The song showcases Nas’ growth as an artist, reflecting on his own experiences as a father and the challenges that come with it.
In “Daughters,” Nas addresses the complexities of raising a daughter in today’s society, candidly discussing the lessons learned and the mistakes made along the way. He delves into his relationship with his own daughter, Destiny, highlighting the struggles and pressures that come from balancing his public persona with his responsibilities as a parent. The lyrics reveal his vulnerability, as he grapples with the impact of his actions on his child’s life.
The production, handled by Salaam Remi, features a soulful instrumental that complements Nas’ reflective tone. The chorus emphasizes the importance of being present and actively engaged in a child’s life, reinforcing the song’s message about the significance of fatherhood.
“Daughters” received critical acclaim for its honest and relatable narrative, resonating with listeners who appreciate Nas’ willingness to tackle personal and societal issues. The track stands out as a significant piece in Nas’ discography, illustrating his ability to evolve as an artist while remaining true to his roots. It reinforces the idea that hip-hop can be a platform for meaningful conversations about family and the responsibilities that come with it.
7. I Can
“I Can” is one of Nas’ most inspirational tracks, released as the second single from his sixth studio album, “God’s Son” (2002). The song stands out for its positive message, aiming to uplift and motivate the youth. Over a sample of Beethoven’s “Für Elise,” Nas delivers a series of verses that encourage children to strive for their dreams and avoid the pitfalls of life in the streets.
The chorus, sung by children, reinforces the hopeful tone with the lines, “I know I can / Be what I wanna be / If I work hard at it / I’ll be where I wanna be.” Nas’ storytelling prowess shines through as he offers historical references and life lessons, guiding young listeners towards education and self-empowerment.
“I Can” was both a commercial and critical success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving praise for its socially conscious lyrics. Its appeal transcended hip-hop audiences, making it a crossover hit. The song’s positive message and memorable melody have ensured its place as one of Nas’ most beloved tracks, continuing to inspire new generations of listeners.
8. Got Ur Self A
“Got Ur Self A…” is a standout track from Nas’ fifth studio album, “Stillmatic,” released in 2001. The song samples “Woke Up This Morning” by Alabama 3, famously known as the theme song for the TV series “The Sopranos.” With its gritty production and aggressive delivery, “Got Ur Self A…” is a powerful declaration of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
In this track, Nas addresses his critics and rivals, reaffirming his position in the rap game with confident, hard-hitting lyrics. The chorus, “You got yourself a gun,” serves as a metaphor for empowerment and preparedness, highlighting the need to be ready for any challenges that may come. Nas’ verses are filled with sharp wordplay and vivid imagery, reflecting his experiences growing up in the tough streets of New York City.
“Got Ur Self A…” was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its raw energy and assertive tone. It played a significant role in the success of “Stillmatic,” an album that marked Nas’ return to prominence in the hip-hop world. The song remains a favorite among Nas’ extensive catalog, embodying the spirit of survival and determination.
9. Suspect
“Suspect” is a deep cut from Nas’ second studio album, “It Was Written,” released in 1996. The track delves into the dark and dangerous underworld of street life, showcasing Nas’ storytelling prowess and vivid lyrical imagery. With a haunting beat produced by L.E.S., “Suspect” paints a gritty picture of crime, betrayal, and survival in the harsh realities of urban environments.
Nas narrates a tale filled with suspense and tension, capturing the paranoia and mistrust that pervades the streets. His detailed verses follow a storyline of a crime investigation, where everyone is a suspect and danger lurks around every corner. The lyrics are raw and unfiltered, offering a glimpse into the complexities and challenges faced by those navigating the treacherous world of crime.
“Suspect” stands out for its cinematic quality, drawing listeners into its narrative with a blend of vivid descriptions and intense emotion. Although not released as a single, the song has garnered appreciation from fans for its storytelling depth and intricate lyricism. “Suspect” remains a testament to Nas’ ability to create compelling narratives and solidify his status as one of hip-hop’s greatest lyricists.
10. One On One
“One on One” is a lesser-known but significant track by Nas, featured on the soundtrack for the 1994 basketball film “Above the Rim.” The song exemplifies Nas’ raw talent and lyrical prowess during the early stages of his career, reflecting the gritty reality of street life and personal confrontations.
Produced by LG Experience, “One on One” showcases Nas’ ability to weave complex narratives and vivid imagery. The track’s beat is minimalistic yet effective, allowing Nas’ intricate wordplay and storytelling to take center stage. In “One on One,” Nas delves into themes of rivalry, survival, and resilience, drawing parallels between the competitive nature of basketball and the struggles of life in the streets.
The song’s verses are filled with vivid descriptions of one-on-one battles, both on the court and in life, highlighting the importance of skill, strategy, and mental toughness. Nas’ delivery is confident and assertive, underscoring his reputation as a formidable lyricist.
Though “One on One” did not achieve the commercial success of some of Nas’ other tracks, it remains a favorite among hardcore fans and is appreciated for its lyrical depth and raw energy. The song contributes to the rich tapestry of Nas’ early work, solidifying his status as one of hip-hop’s most talented storytellers.