Nas, a name synonymous with lyrical genius, storytelling mastery, and unparalleled authenticity, has cemented himself as one of the greatest hip-hop artists of all time. Emerging from the gritty streets of Queensbridge, New York, Nas burst onto the scene in 1994 with Illmatic, a debut album hailed as a hip-hop masterpiece and a benchmark for the genre. Over the decades, Nas has continued to evolve, delivering songs that not only capture the raw essence of street life but also explore themes of ambition, spirituality, resilience, and social justice. His ability to fuse poetic imagery with hard-hitting truths has earned him a loyal fan base and an enduring legacy in music.
In this list, we dive into the top 10 most popular Nas songs of all time—tracks that have defined his career, reshaped hip-hop, and resonated across generations. From timeless anthems like “N.Y. State of Mind” to introspective gems like “One Mic,” each song showcases Nas’s versatility and genius. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his catalog for the first time, this list is a celebration of Nas’s artistry and the impact he’s had on the culture. So, turn up the volume and get ready to revisit the tracks that made Nas a legend.
1. “N.Y. State of Mind” (Illmatic, 1994)
Released in 1994 as part of Nas’s groundbreaking debut Illmatic, “N.Y. State of Mind” stands as a vivid, unflinching portrayal of life in Queensbridge, New York. The track opens with Nas’s iconic words, “I don’t know how to start this,” setting the stage for a raw journey through the gritty streets of the city. Produced by the legendary DJ Premier, the dark, jazz-infused beat enhances the intense realism of Nas’s storytelling, drawing listeners into his world of survival. With intricate rhyme schemes and a level of honesty rarely seen in hip-hop, Nas’s lyrical prowess is on full display. This song is more than just a track; it’s a cultural manifesto, cementing Nas’s place as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. His ability to paint pictures with words and his unfiltered portrayal of urban life in New York helped solidify “N.Y. State of Mind” as one of the most influential hip-hop songs ever.
2. “The World Is Yours” (Illmatic, 1994)
A cornerstone of Nas’s Illmatic album, “The World Is Yours” is an anthem of hope and self-empowerment. Released in 1994, this track stands out for its introspective lyrics and smooth, piano-driven beat, produced by Pete Rock. Nas uses the song to reflect on his ambitions and the struggles he has faced while declaring that the world is within his reach. The memorable hook, sung by Pete Rock, acts as both a rallying cry and a reminder that personal success is attainable. Through vivid, poetic imagery and philosophical reflections, Nas captures the universal theme of perseverance. The song has continued to resonate with generations of listeners, not only for its timeless message but also for its deep connection to the realities of inner-city life. With its combination of smooth production and introspective lyrics, “The World Is Yours” has become one of Nas’s most iconic tracks and a staple in the hip-hop genre.
3. “One Mic” (Stillmatic, 2001)
Released in 2001 as part of his Stillmatic album, “One Mic” showcases Nas’s unparalleled ability to convey emotion and build intensity within a single track. The song starts with a stripped-down, minimalist beat and Nas rapping in a contemplative tone, before slowly crescendoing into an explosive outpouring of passion and anger. The track reflects Nas’s inner turmoil and the societal injustices that have shaped his worldview. Its themes of personal struggle, perseverance, and the power of using one voice for change resonate deeply with listeners. The contrast between the calm verses and the intense, explosive chorus mirrors Nas’s emotional journey, making this track one of his most powerful works. “One Mic” stands as a masterclass in dynamic songwriting, illustrating how Nas can turn personal reflection into a broader statement on life, music, and activism.
4. “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” (It Was Written, 1996)
Nas’s collaboration with Lauryn Hill on the 1996 track “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” remains one of his most memorable songs, combining political insight with smooth, soulful production. The track imagines a utopian world where social inequalities and systemic oppression are eradicated, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. With Lauryn Hill’s soulful hook providing a sense of empowerment, Nas uses his verse to paint a vision of peace and equality, blending his sharp lyricism with a broader social message. The song’s polished production, paired with Hill’s captivating vocals, marked a shift in Nas’s style towards a more mainstream sound, but it never lost its thought-provoking depth. The track quickly became an anthem of aspiration and hope, touching on universal themes of freedom and self-determination. With its blend of consciousness and accessibility, “If I Ruled the World” became a commercial success while maintaining Nas’s reputation for socially aware and powerful storytelling.
5. “Nas Is Like” (I Am…, 1999)
“Nas Is Like” is a perfect example of Nas’s lyrical genius, showcasing his sharp wit and complex wordplay. Released in 1999 on I Am…, the track is built around a haunting violin sample and a booming drum beat, courtesy of DJ Premier. The song is essentially a lyrical exercise, with Nas weaving intricate metaphors and similes to declare his superiority in the rap game. With lines that are both brash and poetic, he presents himself as an untouchable force in hip-hop. The song’s dark, cinematic production enhances Nas’s delivery, making it feel like a battle cry for his place in the pantheon of great lyricists. “Nas Is Like” is both a celebration of Nas’s talent and a reminder of his dominance in the industry. With its flawless blend of complex lyricism and hard-hitting beats, it remains one of his most technically impressive tracks.
6. “Made You Look” (God’s Son, 2002)
“Made You Look,” from Nas’s God’s Son album, marks a triumphant return to his boom-bap roots. Released in 2002, the track features a gritty beat built around a sample from the Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache,” giving it a classic, old-school vibe. Nas’s verses are delivered with intensity and precision, showcasing his sharp lyricism and confident swagger. The song’s brash energy and unrelenting tone made it an instant street anthem, capturing the essence of Nas’s gritty, real-life storytelling. The track represents a return to Nas’s hip-hop roots while maintaining his signature style. “Made You Look” became one of his most iconic songs, cementing his role as a torchbearer for authentic, raw hip-hop. With its hard-hitting beat and razor-sharp bars, the track remains a standout in Nas’s extensive catalog.
7. “Hate Me Now” (I Am…, 1999)
“Hate Me Now,” a track from Nas’s I Am… album, is a bold, defiant anthem of success and resilience. Released in 1999, it features Puff Daddy and pairs dramatic orchestral production with Nas’s brash lyrics, creating an in-your-face statement about overcoming adversity. Nas addresses his critics head-on, unapologetically declaring that he has the right to thrive, regardless of the hate he receives. The song’s controversial music video, which featured images of Nas in a crucifixion pose, sparked intense debate, but the track’s larger-than-life energy resonated with fans. “Hate Me Now” blends brash confidence with lyrical substance, making it one of Nas’s most ambitious tracks. The song stands as a testament to his ability to create music that not only challenges the status quo but also inspires listeners to overcome obstacles in their own lives.
8. “Life’s a Bitch” (Illmatic, 1994)
A standout track from Illmatic, “Life’s a Bitch” is a poignant meditation on mortality and the harsh realities of life. Featuring a standout guest verse from AZ and a haunting trumpet outro by Nas’s father, Olu Dara, the song captures both the pain and the beauty of life in Queensbridge. Nas’s verse, filled with vivid imagery and deep reflection, paints a picture of struggle, while AZ’s contribution adds a layer of philosophical perspective, making it a deeply introspective track. The melancholic tone of the song, combined with its introspective lyrics, makes it one of the most unforgettable moments on Illmatic. “Life’s a Bitch” is not just a song—it’s a profound exploration of life’s fragility and the inevitability of death.
9. “Ether” (Stillmatic, 2001)
Released in 2001, “Ether” became an instant classic and a defining moment in Nas’s career. The track is a brutal response to Jay-Z during their infamous feud, with Nas delivering a scathing diss track filled with sharp disses, biting wit, and clever wordplay. Over a haunting, eerie beat, Nas dismantles Jay-Z’s persona and legacy, all while asserting his own dominance in the rap game. The track became synonymous with the art of the diss record, setting the standard for lyrical battles in hip-hop. “Ether” is unapologetic, raw, and fiercely clever, solidifying Nas’s place as one of the most formidable forces in rap. The track not only revived Nas’s career but also cemented his status as one of hip-hop’s greatest lyricists.
10. “I Can” (God’s Son, 2003)
“I Can,” released in 2003, is an uplifting anthem that encourages youth to strive for greatness. With its classical-inspired beat and powerful message, the track combines storytelling with motivational lyrics, reminding listeners that they can achieve their dreams. The song’s sing-along hook, “I know I can, be what I wanna be,” became instantly iconic and continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Despite its more accessible tone, Nas doesn’t shy away from including a history lesson and offering a cautionary tale. “I Can” proves that Nas is capable of blending inspiration with education, making it one of his most beloved and influential songs.
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.
