Nas is more than just a rapper—he’s a poet, a storyteller, and one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. Since bursting onto the scene with Illmatic in 1994, he has crafted some of the most vivid, thought-provoking, and unforgettable songs the genre has ever seen. His ability to paint pictures with words, blending street realism with deep introspection, has solidified his legacy as one of rap’s true icons.
From raw, cinematic depictions of life in Queensbridge to introspective reflections on fame, struggle, and success, Nas’ catalog is filled with timeless classics. Whether he’s delivering hard-hitting street anthems, motivational messages, or legendary diss tracks, his music continues to shape and inspire generations of hip-hop fans.
In this list, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Nas songs of all time—tracks that have defined his career, dominated airwaves, and left an everlasting impact on rap culture. These are the songs that made us rewind, analyze every bar, and appreciate the genius of Nasir Jones. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, these hits are essential listening. Let’s dive into the tracks that made Nas a legend!
1. N.Y. State of Mind (1994)
“N.Y. State of Mind” is more than just a song—it’s a visceral journey through the heart of New York City’s gritty underbelly. Released on Nas’ groundbreaking debut album Illmatic, the track is a masterclass in lyrical storytelling. With DJ Premier’s haunting piano loop and signature boom-bap drums setting a dark, foreboding tone, Nas crafts vivid scenes of life in Queensbridge. His razor-sharp rhymes and complex internal schemes bring listeners face-to-face with the raw realities of urban survival. Every line feels like a snapshot of street life—dangerous, chaotic, and unfiltered. This song not only set the tone for Illmatic but also established Nas as one of hip-hop’s most gifted lyricists. Decades later, “N.Y. State of Mind” remains a cornerstone of rap, often cited as one of the greatest hip-hop tracks ever recorded. Its influence stretches far beyond the boroughs of New York, offering a timeless blueprint for street poetry that resonates with every generation of hip-hop fans.
2. The World Is Yours (1994)
Optimistic yet deeply introspective, “The World Is Yours” stands as a beacon of hope on Illmatic. Over Pete Rock’s smooth, jazzy piano loops and laid-back drums, Nas delivers philosophical reflections on ambition, struggle, and the pursuit of success. His lyrics are both personal and universal, making the song an anthem for dreamers everywhere. While he acknowledges the harsh realities of life in Queensbridge, he also reminds listeners that greatness is within reach. The balance between grit and inspiration makes “The World Is Yours” one of Nas’ most relatable and enduring tracks. It’s a song that speaks to anyone striving for something greater, cementing its place not only in Nas’ catalog but in the broader hip-hop canon.
3. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (1996)
From Nas’ sophomore album It Was Written, “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is both a vision of utopia and a sharp commentary on the world’s injustices. Featuring Lauryn Hill’s soulful and unforgettable hook, the track seamlessly blends Nas’ streetwise storytelling with dreams of a better future. Over a smooth, melodic beat, Nas imagines a world without oppression, where opportunity and freedom are accessible to all. His verses reflect a thoughtful mix of realism and idealism, showing his ability to address heavy topics while still inspiring hope. The song’s commercial success helped solidify Nas’ place in the mainstream, but its message and musicality ensured it became a timeless hip-hop classic.
4. One Mic (2002)
“One Mic,” from Stillmatic, is a slow-burning masterpiece that showcases Nas’ emotional depth and lyrical prowess. The song begins in a hushed, almost meditative tone, as Nas reflects on his desires for peace and simplicity. But as the track progresses, his frustration with societal injustices and personal struggles boils over, erupting into rapid-fire verses filled with intensity and passion. The minimalist production—a sparse beat that gradually builds in energy—mirrors the song’s escalating tension. “One Mic” isn’t just a song; it’s an emotional journey that captures the turbulence of street life and the power of a single voice to inspire change. It remains one of Nas’ most powerful and cinematic tracks.
5. Hate Me Now (1999)
Bold, defiant, and unapologetically grandiose, “Hate Me Now” is a triumphant anthem of perseverance. Featuring Puff Daddy’s dramatic ad-libs and an operatic, almost theatrical beat, this track from I Am… sees Nas embracing his success while confronting his critics head-on. The song’s aggressive tone and unapologetic lyrics make it a statement piece—a declaration that Nas would thrive regardless of public opinion. Its larger-than-life production and bold message resonated with audiences, propelling it to commercial success and solidifying Nas’ ability to create mainstream hits without losing his lyrical edge. “Hate Me Now” remains a staple in Nas’ catalog, celebrated for its audacity and resilience.
6. Made You Look (2002)
“Made You Look” is a raw, high-energy return to the gritty roots of hip-hop. Released as a single from God’s Son, the track features a thunderous beat sampling the Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache,” one of the most iconic breaks in hip-hop history. Nas delivers fierce, no-nonsense bars with sharp wordplay and commanding presence, reminding the world of his lyrical dominance. The song’s infectious energy made it an instant fan favorite and a staple of Nas’ live performances. “Made You Look” is proof that Nas can effortlessly blend old-school authenticity with contemporary swagger, cementing his place as a timeless force in rap.
7. I Can (2003)
A departure from his typical street anthems, “I Can” is an empowering, motivational track aimed at inspiring youth. Over a piano loop inspired by Beethoven’s “Für Elise,” Nas delivers a message of hope and self-belief, encouraging kids to pursue their dreams and avoid the traps of street life. The simplicity of the beat allows his words to take center stage, making the song’s message even more impactful. Released as a single from God’s Son, “I Can” became one of Nas’ most influential tracks, proving that hip-hop could be both positive and powerful. Its timeless message continues to inspire new generations of listeners.
8. Ether (2001)
“Ether” is one of the most notorious diss tracks in hip-hop history, cementing Nas’ reputation as a battle-tested lyricist. Released as the opener on Stillmatic, “Ether” was Nas’ fiery response to Jay-Z during their highly publicized feud. The track pulls no punches, filled with scathing bars and ruthless takedowns of his rival. The impact of “Ether” was so profound that the term itself became synonymous with destroying an opponent in battle rap. Beyond its savage content, “Ether” showcased Nas’ ability to channel his lyrical talent into confrontational, high-stakes storytelling. It remains a defining moment in his career and a touchstone in hip-hop beef history.
9. Nas Is Like (1999)
Reuniting with DJ Premier for “Nas Is Like,” Nas delivers a lyrical clinic over a hypnotic beat featuring chopped-up violin samples and hard-hitting drums. Released as a single from I Am…, the track highlights Nas’ technical mastery, with intricate wordplay and flawless flow. The song is a pure embodiment of hip-hop’s essence—gritty, authentic, and unapologetically lyrical. “Nas Is Like” not only showcases Nas’ skill but also his ability to create timeless rap that resonates with purists and casual fans alike. It’s a quintessential Nas track that continues to influence aspiring MCs.
10. Life’s a Bitch (1994)
“Life’s a Bitch,” from Illmatic, is a reflective and deeply poignant track that captures the fleeting nature of life in the streets. Featuring an unforgettable guest verse from AZ and a smooth, jazzy beat produced by L.E.S., the song balances street wisdom with existential introspection. Nas’ contemplative verses explore themes of mortality and the harsh realities of growing up in Queensbridge. The song’s emotional depth is heightened by the soulful trumpet outro played by Nas’ father, Olu Dara, adding a personal touch that resonates with listeners. “Life’s a Bitch” remains one of Nas’ most profound and timeless tracks, a poignant reminder of life’s struggles and triumphs.
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.
