Nas, an iconic figure in hip-hop, has consistently delivered powerful and thought-provoking music since his groundbreaking debut album, “Illmatic”, in 1994. Widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Nas has built a legacy through his lyrical prowess, storytelling ability, and social commentary. His music paints vivid pictures of life in Queensbridge, New York, touching on themes of struggle, perseverance, and the complexities of urban life. With a career spanning decades, Nas has produced numerous hits and classic tracks that have resonated with fans worldwide. From the introspective “One Mic” to the raw and gritty “N.Y. State of Mind,” Nas’s discography is filled with songs that showcase his talent for weaving intricate narratives and delivering impactful messages. In this article, we will explore the top ten most popular and influential songs by Nas, highlighting the tracks that have cemented his status as a hip-hop legend. These songs not only capture the essence of his artistry but also reflect the evolution of his sound and the enduring impact he has had on the genre. Join us as we delve into the best of Nas’s extensive catalog, celebrating his contributions to music and culture.
1. N.Y. State of Mind
“N.Y. State of Mind” is one of Nas’s most iconic tracks, widely regarded as a defining moment in hip-hop history. Released in 1994 on his groundbreaking debut album Illmatic, the song captures the raw essence of life in New York City’s Queensbridge housing projects. Produced by DJ Premier, the track’s haunting piano loop and gritty beat set the perfect backdrop for Nas’s vivid storytelling.
With a masterful flow and intricate wordplay, Nas paints a stark picture of the struggles and survival in the urban jungle, touching on themes of violence, poverty, and the constant pursuit of success. Lines like “I never sleep, ’cause sleep is the cousin of death” encapsulate the relentless energy and paranoia of street life. Nas’s delivery is both intense and effortless, showcasing his natural talent as a lyricist.
“N.Y. State of Mind” has become a timeless anthem, celebrated for its authenticity and its reflection of the harsh realities of inner-city life. It solidified Nas’s reputation as one of the greatest MCs of all time and remains a cornerstone of his discography, influencing generations of rappers and hip-hop enthusiasts alike.
2. The World Is Yours
“The World Is Yours” is a standout track from Nas’s iconic debut album, “Illmatic”, released in 1994. Produced by the legendary Pete Rock, the song is celebrated for its jazzy, soulful beat that samples Ahmad Jamal’s “I Love Music.” The track’s title and hook are inspired by the classic movie “Scarface”, reflecting Nas’s ambition and determination.
Lyrically, “The World Is Yours” showcases Nas’s storytelling prowess and introspective style, with themes of aspiration, resilience, and the harsh realities of street life in Queensbridge, New York. The song is a manifesto of self-empowerment, as Nas confidently asserts his place in the rap world and his potential to rise above adversity. His smooth, poetic flow and vivid imagery paint a picture of both the struggles and triumphs that define his journey.
“The World Is Yours” has been widely praised for its lyrical depth and production quality, cementing Nas’s reputation as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. It remains a fan favorite and a timeless anthem for those striving to achieve their dreams, embodying the spirit of perseverance and hope. The track’s influence can be seen across generations, inspiring countless artists and listeners alike.
3. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)
“If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is one of Nas’s most celebrated tracks, released as a single from his second album, “It Was Written”, in 1996. The song features Lauryn Hill of The Fugees, whose soulful chorus complements Nas’s insightful verses. Produced by Trackmasters and Rashad Smith, the song samples Kurtis Blow’s 1985 track “If I Ruled the World,” giving it a nostalgic yet contemporary feel.
The song explores themes of power, change, and social justice, imagining a world where Nas could address systemic issues and uplift marginalized communities. Nas envisions a society free of poverty and racial discrimination, where justice prevails, and everyone can achieve their dreams. His verses are filled with vivid imagery and poignant reflections on the realities of urban life and the aspirations of the oppressed.
Lauryn Hill’s hauntingly beautiful vocals add depth and emotion, reinforcing the song’s hopeful yet critical tone. “If I Ruled the World” was a commercial success and reached number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning widespread acclaim for its lyrical content and production. It remains a powerful anthem of empowerment and change, inspiring listeners to imagine a better future.
4. One Love
“One Love” is a standout track from Nas’s critically acclaimed debut album, “Illmatic”, released in 1994. Produced by Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest, the song features a smooth, jazz-influenced beat that samples “Smilin’ Billy Suite Pt. II” by The Heath Brothers. The track is renowned for its introspective lyrics and storytelling, which highlight Nas’s ability to paint vivid pictures of life in Queensbridge, New York.
The song is structured as a series of letters to Nas’s friends who are incarcerated, expressing solidarity and offering updates from the outside world. Nas’s poignant verses touch on themes of friendship, loyalty, and the struggles faced by those caught in the cycle of crime and imprisonment. Through his narrative, Nas captures the emotions of hope, despair, and resilience, providing a glimpse into the lives of young men navigating the challenges of inner-city life.
“One Love” is celebrated for its lyrical depth and authenticity, showcasing Nas’s talent as a storyteller and his empathy for those around him. The song has been praised for its emotional impact and remains a fan favorite, representing the timeless nature of Nas’s music and his enduring influence in hip-hop.
5. I Can
“I Can” is a powerful track from Nas’s 2002 album, “God’s Son”. Produced by Salaam Remi, the song is notable for its inspirational message and motivational lyrics, aimed at empowering young listeners and encouraging them to overcome obstacles. The track samples Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” blending classical elements with Nas’s impactful rhymes to create a compelling and uplifting anthem.
In “I Can,” Nas delivers a message of self-belief and determination, urging listeners to realize their potential and pursue their dreams despite societal and personal challenges. The song addresses themes of education, self-respect, and resilience, with Nas offering practical advice and wisdom. His lyrics are both a call to action and a source of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of self-worth and perseverance.
The track was praised for its positive message and its ability to resonate with a wide audience. “I Can” reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned critical acclaim for its blend of motivational content and Nas’s lyrical skill. The song’s impact extends beyond its commercial success, making it a lasting symbol of Nas’s commitment to inspiring change and promoting self-empowerment through his music.
6. Hate Me Now
“Hate Me Now” is a bold and defiant track from Nas’s 1999 album, “Nastradamus”. Produced by the Trackmasters and featuring a striking collaboration with Puff Daddy (now known as Diddy), the song stands out for its aggressive beat and confrontational lyrics. The production incorporates a dramatic sample from “Sermonette” by The Impressions, adding a layer of intensity to the track.
The song’s central theme is defiance in the face of criticism and adversity. Nas delivers a brash, unapologetic performance, addressing his detractors and asserting his place in the rap world. His verses reflect his frustrations with the industry’s challenges and personal conflicts, while also showcasing his resilience and confidence. The chorus, performed by Puff Daddy, emphasizes the song’s central message of confronting and overcoming negativity.
“Hate Me Now” is notable for its raw energy and braggadocious tone, distinguishing itself from Nas’s more introspective work. The track was a commercial success, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of Nas’s most memorable and controversial songs. Its fearless attitude and high-octane production solidify its place as a powerful anthem of resilience and self-assertion in Nas’s discography.
7. Made You Look
“Made You Look” is a standout track from Nas’s 2002 album, “God’s Son”. Produced by Salaam Remi, the song is a return to Nas’s raw, gritty roots, featuring a hard-hitting beat that samples “Explosive” by The Explosions. The track is celebrated for its aggressive delivery and lyrical dexterity, marking a powerful moment in Nas’s career.
In “Made You Look,” Nas addresses his critics and competitors with a confident and confrontational style. The song’s lyrics are a testament to Nas’s enduring prowess as a lyricist, showcasing his ability to craft vivid imagery and incisive commentary on the state of hip-hop. His verses reflect a sense of urgency and determination, with Nas asserting his dominance in the rap game and dismissing any challengers.
The song’s production is marked by a raw, minimalist approach, with a strong emphasis on the drumbeat and a catchy hook. “Made You Look” received widespread acclaim for its return to classic hip-hop values and its energetic performance. The track reached number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a fan favorite for its dynamic blend of lyrical brilliance and compelling production. It stands as a testament to Nas’s skill in blending modern sounds with classic rap elements.
8. One Mic
“One Mic” is a powerful and impactful track from Nas’s 2002 album, “God’s Son”. Produced by Salaam Remi, the song is noted for its dynamic production and Nas’s intense, emotive delivery. The track starts with a minimalist beat and gradually builds up to a dramatic crescendo, reflecting the escalating intensity of Nas’s performance.
In “One Mic,” Nas addresses a range of social and political issues, including inequality, violence, and personal struggles. The song’s lyrics are a call for change and a reflection on the power of music as a tool for expressing dissent and advocating for justice. Nas’s delivery is both passionate and introspective, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion and critical commentary through his words.
The song’s structure allows Nas to build momentum as he delivers his verses, leading to a powerful and climactic chorus that emphasizes the song’s central message. “One Mic” was widely praised for its lyrical depth and production quality, reaching number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of Nas’s most memorable and influential tracks, celebrated for its ability to capture the spirit of resistance and hope in the face of adversity.
9. It Ain’t Hard to Tell
“It Ain’t Hard to Tell” is a standout track from Nas’s acclaimed debut album, “Illmatic”, released in 1994. Produced by the legendary Large Professor, the song features a memorable beat that samples Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature,” blending a smooth, soulful backdrop with Nas’s incisive lyrics.
The track showcases Nas’s lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities, with his verses reflecting a mix of confidence and introspection. “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” highlights Nas’s skillful wordplay and his knack for vivid imagery, painting a picture of his life and experiences in Queensbridge, New York. The song’s hook is both catchy and assertive, reinforcing Nas’s message of self-assuredness and mastery in the rap game.
The production of the track is characterized by its atmospheric, laid-back vibe, contrasting with Nas’s sharp and energetic delivery. “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and Nas’s dynamic performance, and it remains a fan favorite. The song peaked at number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is considered one of the defining tracks of Nas’s early career, exemplifying the lyrical depth and artistic vision that marked “Illmatic” as a seminal album in hip-hop history.
10. Life’s a Bitch
“Life’s a Bitch” is a standout track from Nas’s groundbreaking debut album, “Illmatic”, released in 1994. Produced by the influential DJ Premier, the song features a classic beat that samples “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers, creating a haunting and memorable backdrop for Nas’s verses.
The track is notable for its introspective and candid lyrics, with Nas exploring themes of struggle, resilience, and the harsh realities of life in the streets. The song’s title reflects its central theme: the challenges and adversities that come with life. Nas’s storytelling is complemented by guest vocals from AZ, whose smooth and reflective verse adds depth to the song’s narrative.
“Life’s a Bitch” is praised for its raw honesty and lyrical depth, capturing the essence of Nas’s early work. The production by DJ Premier is marked by its minimalist yet impactful approach, allowing Nas’s words to take center stage. The track is a quintessential example of “Illmatic”‘s influence on hip-hop, showcasing Nas’s ability to blend personal insight with broader social commentary. “Life’s a Bitch” remains a fan favorite and a classic in Nas’s discography, embodying the spirit and creativity of one of hip-hop’s most celebrated albums.
Samuel Moore 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.
