Nas is one of the most revered and influential figures in hip-hop, a lyrical storyteller whose career has spanned over three decades. From his groundbreaking debut Illmatic to his consistent output in recent years, Nas has earned his place as a rap icon through his vivid narratives, complex wordplay, and deep social commentary. His ability to paint pictures of street life, personal struggles, and the realities of growing up in New York has resonated with fans across generations. But what are the tracks that truly define this rap legend’s legacy? Whether you’re a day-one fan or just discovering his genius, this list of the top 10 most popular Nas songs of all time will take you on a journey through some of the most essential moments in hip-hop history. From hard-hitting battle tracks to introspective anthems, these songs showcase Nas at his best—an artist who can switch between raw, street-level tales and thoughtful reflections on life, all while maintaining his position as one of the greatest lyricists to ever touch a microphone. Get ready to dive into the timeless classics that have cemented Nas’ place in the rap pantheon.
1. “N.Y. State of Mind” (1994)
A gritty, raw depiction of life in the streets of New York, “N.Y. State of Mind” is one of Nas’ most iconic tracks and a cornerstone of his Illmatic album. Released in 1994, the song showcases Nas at his lyrical peak, painting vivid pictures of urban life with unmatched precision and detail. Produced by DJ Premier, the beat’s haunting piano loop and hard-hitting drums perfectly complement Nas’ introspective and aggressive rhymes. His ability to intertwine storytelling with intricate wordplay is on full display, making it a timeless anthem of survival and street wisdom. The opening lines, “Rappers, I monkey flip ’em with the funky rhythm I be kickin’, musician, inflictin’ composition,” set the tone for Nas’ career as a lyrical genius. It’s a song that both defines a generation and transcends it, remaining as relevant today as it was when first released.
2. “The World Is Yours” (1994)
Released as part of Illmatic in 1994, “The World Is Yours” is an uplifting yet reflective anthem that captures the essence of ambition, struggle, and self-determination. The Pete Rock-produced track is built on a smooth, jazzy piano loop, providing a laid-back contrast to Nas’ introspective lyrics. With lines like “I’m out for presidents to represent me,” Nas contemplates his place in a world filled with systemic obstacles, yet his optimism shines through as he encourages listeners to take control of their destiny. The song’s hook, sampled from T La Rock’s “It’s Yours,” reinforces the message of empowerment. “The World Is Yours” is more than just a hip-hop classic; it’s a life mantra, inspiring generations to aim higher and embrace their potential.
3. “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” (1996)
Released in 1996 as the lead single from It Was Written, “If I Ruled the World” is a visionary anthem featuring the soulful vocals of Lauryn Hill. The song imagines a utopia where Nas has the power to reshape the world, addressing issues of injustice, inequality, and systemic oppression. Lauryn Hill’s chorus, borrowed from Kurtis Blow’s 1985 hit of the same name, adds a nostalgic yet hopeful layer to the track. Over a smooth, melodic beat by Trackmasters, Nas dreams of a better future while acknowledging the harsh realities of life in the streets. The track became one of Nas’ biggest commercial hits, blending sharp lyrical commentary with mainstream appeal. It’s a perfect balance of introspection and dreamlike optimism, offering a glimpse into a world where Nas’ vision of justice reigns supreme.
4. “One Mic” (2001)
“One Mic,” released on Stillmatic in 2001, is a testament to Nas’ ability to weave intensity, emotion, and thought-provoking messages into his music. The song starts softly, with Nas reflecting on his desires for peace and understanding, but builds into a crescendo of anger and frustration as he delves into topics of violence, poverty, and systemic failure. The production is minimalist, with atmospheric keys and a rising tempo that mirrors the escalation in Nas’ delivery. By the time the chorus hits, “All I need is one mic,” Nas has fully captured the listener in his narrative of survival, resilience, and the power of voice. It’s not just a song—it’s a statement about the importance of storytelling, activism, and speaking truth to power. “One Mic” is a masterclass in pacing, emotion, and lyrical depth, making it one of Nas’ most powerful records.
5. “Nas Is Like” (1999)
“Nas Is Like,” released in 1999 as part of his I Am… album, is a lyrical showcase that reaffirms Nas as one of the greatest wordsmiths in hip-hop history. Produced by DJ Premier, the track features a hypnotic violin sample layered over hard-hitting drums, creating a soundscape that is both haunting and energizing. Nas delivers bar after bar of intricate metaphors and vivid imagery, using his verses to reflect on his identity, his career, and the world around him. The repetitive hook, “Nas is like…,” works as a mantra, with each verse offering a new perspective on what makes Nas unique—his wisdom, his lyrical prowess, and his experiences in the streets. The song is a pure exhibition of Nas’ technical skill, and it remains a favorite among fans for its rawness and lyrical complexity.
6. “Made You Look” (2002)
“Made You Look,” from the God’s Son album, is a fiery return to Nas’ street roots. Released in 2002, the song is built around a booming, stripped-down beat that samples the Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache,” giving it a raw, old-school feel. Nas’ delivery is aggressive and unapologetic as he reclaims his position as one of the best in the game, boasting, “They shooting! I made you look, you a slave to a page in my rhyme book.” The track’s simplicity in both beat and bars is what makes it so effective—it’s hard-hitting, direct, and leaves no room for filler. “Made You Look” became an instant classic, a song that demanded attention and respect in an era where flashy production was often overshadowing lyrical content. It’s proof that Nas could still command the streets with his words alone.
7. “Hate Me Now” (1999)
Released in 1999 as one of the standout tracks from I Am…, “Hate Me Now” is an unapologetic declaration of Nas’ resilience and defiance in the face of criticism. Featuring Puff Daddy, the song is built on a grandiose orchestral beat, giving it an epic, almost cinematic quality. Nas uses the track to confront his haters head-on, making it clear that no amount of backlash will stop him from achieving greatness. The song’s hook, delivered by Puff Daddy, reinforces this message with its bold declaration, “You can hate me now, but I won’t stop now.” The accompanying music video, which sparked controversy for its striking imagery, further solidified the song’s status as a bold anthem of triumph against adversity. “Hate Me Now” is a testament to Nas’ unyielding self-confidence and determination.
8. “Ether” (2001)
“Ether,” released in 2001 on Stillmatic, is one of the most famous diss tracks in hip-hop history. Aimed directly at Jay-Z during their highly publicized feud, the song is a scathing, no-holds-barred attack that cemented Nas’ reputation as a battle-ready MC. Over a haunting instrumental, Nas pulls no punches, questioning Jay-Z’s authenticity and legacy while reasserting his own dominance in the rap game. The track’s title, “Ether,” has since become synonymous with completely dismantling an opponent in a lyrical battle. With lines like “How much of Biggie’s rhymes is gonna come out your fat lips?” Nas hit hard, leaving a lasting impact on the culture. “Ether” is more than just a diss track—it’s a reminder of Nas’ ability to command respect with his words alone.
9. “Life’s a Bitch” (1994)
“Life’s a Bitch,” from Nas’ Illmatic, is a reflective, introspective track that explores the harsh realities of life in the inner city. Released in 1994, the song features a guest verse from AZ, whose smooth delivery complements Nas’ raw, observational style. Over a jazzy, laid-back beat, Nas and AZ reflect on mortality, ambition, and the fleeting nature of happiness. The song’s closing trumpet solo, performed by Nas’ father, Olu Dara, adds a somber yet beautiful touch to the track. “Life’s a Bitch” is a philosophical meditation on life’s challenges, underscored by the youthful realization that time is short. It’s a testament to Nas’ ability to blend deep, existential themes with street-level narratives, making it one of the most emotionally resonant tracks on Illmatic.
10. “I Can” (2002)
“I Can,” released in 2002 as a single from God’s Son, is one of Nas’ most uplifting and positive tracks. Built around a classical piano sample from Beethoven’s “Für Elise,” the song is a motivational anthem aimed at empowering young listeners to pursue their dreams and avoid the pitfalls of street life. With its catchy hook, “I know I can, be what I wanna be,” Nas offers a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging kids to stay focused on education and self-improvement. The track’s accessible, radio-friendly sound helped it become one of Nas’ most commercially successful songs. Despite its mainstream appeal, “I Can” carries a deeper message about self-empowerment and the importance of knowledge, continuing Nas’ legacy of using his platform to inspire positive change in his community.
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.
