Nasir Jones, better known as Nas, is a name synonymous with hip-hop greatness. From the moment his debut album Illmatic dropped in 1994, Nas cemented himself as one of the most gifted lyricists in music history. With his unparalleled storytelling, razor-sharp wordplay, and ability to paint vivid pictures of life in the streets, Nas has crafted a catalog of songs that transcend time. Whether he’s reflecting on the harsh realities of life, envisioning a better world, or simply flexing his lyrical prowess, Nas has always been a master of his craft.
Over the course of his three-decade career, Nas has delivered countless classics that have defined not just his career but the evolution of hip-hop itself. From gritty anthems rooted in the chaos of New York City to introspective tracks that explore ambition, struggle, and redemption, Nas’ music resonates with fans from all walks of life. His ability to blend raw emotion with intellectual depth has made him an icon in the genre.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular Nas songs of all time—tracks that showcase his genius and have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, these songs are essential listening for any hip-hop enthusiast.
1. N.Y. State of Mind (1994)
From Nas’ iconic debut album Illmatic, “N.Y. State of Mind” stands as one of the most vivid and gripping portrayals of life in the streets of New York City. Released in 1994, this DJ Premier-produced track is often heralded as a masterpiece of cinematic storytelling in hip-hop. Over a haunting piano loop, Nas unleashes a relentless barrage of razor-sharp rhymes, painting an unfiltered picture of survival and hardship in the urban jungle. His intricate wordplay and multisyllabic rhyme schemes bring the struggles of the city to life, transporting listeners to its gritty streets. The track’s raw energy and poetic realism make it a timeless anthem that captures the essence of East Coast rap in the 90s. More than just a song, “N.Y. State of Mind” is a lyrical time capsule, embodying the spirit of an era and cementing Nas as one of hip-hop’s greatest storytellers.
2. The World Is Yours (1994)
Another jewel from Nas’ debut album Illmatic, “The World Is Yours” is an introspective anthem that blends jazzy production with a message of hope and ambition. Released in 1994 and produced by Pete Rock, the track weaves a reflective narrative that encourages listeners to strive for greatness, no matter their circumstances. The title, inspired by the famous quote from Scarface, becomes a mantra for empowerment. Nas’ verses effortlessly balance philosophical musings and street wisdom, creating a deeply personal yet universally resonant piece. The jazzy beat, infused with smooth piano loops, complements Nas’ reflective lyrics, adding depth and warmth to the track. Its aspirational theme, combined with Nas’ masterful storytelling, has made “The World Is Yours” not only one of the standout tracks from Illmatic but also a defining moment in Nas’ career. It’s a song that continues to inspire, proving that dreams can be within reach even in the face of adversity.
3. It Ain’t Hard to Tell (1994)
Closing out Illmatic with finesse, “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” is a lyrical masterpiece that showcases Nas at his best. Released in 1994 and produced by Large Professor, the track combines a smooth, hypnotic beat with samples from Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature.” Nas delivers intricate rhymes with confidence and precision, effortlessly intertwining braggadocio and poetic depth. His wordplay, packed with vivid imagery and complex metaphors, highlights his unparalleled skill as an emcee. The track’s production complements his performance, blending a soulful melody with a gritty edge, resulting in a sound that’s both timeless and innovative. As the album’s closer, “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” leaves listeners with a lasting impression of Nas’ lyrical prowess and sets a high bar for hip-hop artistry. It remains one of the most celebrated tracks in his catalog and a definitive example of 90s rap excellence.
4. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (1996)
Released in 1996 as the lead single for It Was Written, “If I Ruled the World” signaled a shift in Nas’ career, blending his introspective lyricism with a polished, mainstream appeal. Featuring the soulful vocals of Lauryn Hill, the track imagines a utopia where oppression and inequality no longer exist. Nas paints this vision with vivid, thought-provoking verses, reflecting his hope for a better world while addressing societal struggles. Lauryn Hill’s melodic hook adds emotional depth, making the track both poignant and accessible. The smooth, radio-friendly production allowed Nas to reach a wider audience, while the track’s deeper message ensured its place as a socially conscious hip-hop classic. “If I Ruled the World” became one of Nas’ biggest commercial successes, earning him widespread acclaim and solidifying his reputation as a voice for change in hip-hop. Its balance of introspection and mass appeal has kept it relevant for decades.
5. Hate Me Now (1999)
Released in 1999 from the album I Am…, “Hate Me Now” is a powerful anthem of defiance that solidifies Nas’ resilience against criticism and adversity. Featuring Puff Daddy (now known as Diddy), the track blends aggressive, orchestral production with an unrelenting energy that mirrors Nas’ refusal to succumb to his detractors. Its grandiose soundscape, complete with dramatic strings and booming beats, amplifies the song’s bold message of self-assurance. The controversial music video, depicting Nas in a crucifixion scene, sparked significant debate and elevated the track to legendary status. Even today, “Hate Me Now” remains a testament to standing tall amidst backlash and believing in your own vision.
6. One Mic (2001)
“One Mic,” from the 2001 album Stillmatic, is one of Nas’ most poignant and emotionally charged songs. It begins with a whisper-soft delivery over a simple, understated beat and gradually builds to an explosive crescendo, reflecting the escalating intensity of Nas’ verses. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics, Nas navigates themes of ambition, social struggles, and personal redemption. The track’s unique structure and dynamic flow make it a standout not only in Nas’ discography but also in hip-hop as a whole. Its raw honesty and impassioned delivery leave an indelible mark on listeners.
7. Made You Look (2002)
Released in 2002 as part of the God’s Son album, “Made You Look” is a fiery return to Nas’ hip-hop roots. Salaam Remi’s production flips the Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache” into a pulsating, hard-hitting beat, setting the stage for Nas’ razor-sharp lyricism. This track exudes confidence and battle-ready bravado, showcasing Nas’ lyrical dominance and unmatched mic presence. With its gritty sound and infectious energy, “Made You Look” has become a timeless anthem that continues to ignite crowds and reinforce Nas’ status as one of rap’s greatest.
8. I Can (2003)
“I Can,” from the 2003 album God’s Son, is an uplifting anthem aimed at inspiring younger generations to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. Over a backdrop of classical piano melodies, Nas delivers a motivational message centered on self-confidence, education, and perseverance. The track’s catchy hook, sung by children, adds a layer of innocence and accessibility that helped it resonate with a wide audience. “I Can” became one of Nas’ most commercially successful tracks and a symbol of his ability to craft meaningful music with mass appeal.
9. Nas Is Like (1999)
“Nas Is Like,” released in 1999 as part of I Am…, is a masterclass in lyricism. Produced by the legendary DJ Premier, the track features Nas delivering intricate, thought-provoking verses over a haunting string sample. Every bar is packed with vivid metaphors, wordplay, and introspection as Nas reflects on his identity, struggles, and legacy. The seamless blend of timeless production and Nas’ poetic brilliance has cemented this song as a favorite among fans and a shining example of hip-hop artistry at its finest.
10. Life’s a Bitch (1994)
“Life’s a Bitch,” from Nas’ groundbreaking 1994 debut album Illmatic, is a soulful and reflective collaboration with fellow rapper AZ. Both artists deliver deeply introspective verses that explore life’s hardships, fleeting moments, and the determination to make the most of them. Adding to the song’s poignancy is the outro, featuring a heartfelt trumpet solo by Nas’ father, Olu Dara, which provides a personal and emotional touch. With its smooth production and raw honesty, “Life’s a Bitch” remains a cornerstone of Nas’ career and one of the most celebrated tracks in hip-hop history.
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.
