Few artists have shaped hip-hop the way Nas has. From his groundbreaking debut Illmatic to his legendary battles and thought-provoking storytelling, Nasir Jones has solidified himself as one of the greatest lyricists of all time. His music isn’t just rap—it’s poetry, raw truth, and street wisdom wrapped in masterful wordplay.
For over three decades, Nas has delivered classic after classic, painting vivid pictures of life in Queensbridge, tackling social issues, and proving time and again that his pen is unmatched. Whether he’s crafting cinematic street tales, dropping knowledge, or flexing his battle rap prowess, his catalog is filled with timeless records that have left an undeniable mark on hip-hop culture.
But which songs stand above the rest? In this list, we break down the top 10 most popular Nas songs of all time, ranked by cultural impact, lyrical brilliance, and fan acclaim. From the gritty streets of New York painted in N.Y. State of Mind to the anthemic If I Ruled the World, these tracks showcase why Nas remains a legend.
So sit back, turn up the volume, and let’s dive into the greatest hits of one of hip-hop’s most iconic MCs. 🔥🎤
1. N.Y. State of Mind (1994)
Few songs capture the essence of 90s East Coast hip-hop quite like “N.Y. State of Mind.” From the moment DJ Premier’s ominous piano loop kicks in, you’re transported into the raw and unfiltered reality of Nas’ New York City. With razor-sharp lyricism and cinematic storytelling, Nas paints a vivid picture of survival, crime, and ambition in the gritty streets. Lines like “I never sleep, ‘cause sleep is the cousin of death” showcase his poetic depth, while his intricate rhyme schemes solidify his reputation as a lyrical prodigy. A cornerstone of Illmatic, this track is often cited as one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time, defining both Nas’ career and an era.
2. The World Is Yours (1994)
A perfect blend of introspection and ambition, “The World Is Yours” is one of Nas’ most uplifting tracks. With a jazzy, soulful beat courtesy of Pete Rock, the song exudes a hypnotic, almost meditative quality. Here, Nas reflects on his struggles, dreams, and the pursuit of greatness, delivering lines like “I’m out for presidents to represent me.” The chorus, borrowed from T La Rock’s “It’s Yours,” reinforces the song’s empowering message of self-determination. A defining anthem of 90s hip-hop, this song continues to inspire generations, reminding listeners that success is within their grasp if they reach for it.
3. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (1996)
A visionary masterpiece, “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is a poetic meditation on freedom, success, and hope for a better future. Featuring the soulful vocals of Lauryn Hill, the song envisions a utopia where oppression and struggle are eradicated. Nas’ verses balance street wisdom with a deep longing for change, as he raps about his dreams of wealth, power, and a world where everyone thrives. The smooth production by Trackmasters gives it mainstream appeal, helping the song become one of his most commercially successful releases. Featured on It Was Written, this track demonstrated Nas’ ability to blend deep lyricism with radio-friendly melodies, cementing his status as both an intellectual and a hitmaker.
4. Hate Me Now (1999)
One of Nas’ most defiant and aggressive tracks, “Hate Me Now” is an anthem of resilience and self-assurance. Featuring Puff Daddy on the hook, the song is a direct response to critics and haters, with Nas embracing his success unapologetically. Over grandiose orchestral production, he delivers lines dripping with confidence: “You wanna hate me, then hate me; what can I do but keep gettin’ money?” The controversial music video, featuring a crucifixion scene, stirred controversy but also showcased Nas’ fearless artistic vision. As an anthem of perseverance and dominance, this track remains a powerful statement in his catalog.
5. One Mic (2002)
A masterclass in storytelling and emotional build-up, “One Mic” stands as one of Nas’ most powerful and introspective songs. Inspired by Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight,” the production starts with a minimalist, almost whispered delivery before exploding into passionate, rapid-fire verses. Nas reflects on violence, injustice, and personal struggles, making the song feel like both a personal confession and a call to action. This Stillmatic standout proves his ability to channel raw emotion into a gripping narrative, showcasing why he remains one of the greatest lyricists of all time.
6. Made You Look (2002)
Returning to his hardcore roots, “Made You Look” is a no-nonsense, street-anthem that reasserts Nas’ dominance in the rap game. Produced by Salaam Remi, the beat—built around a sample of the Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache”—is a gritty, hard-hitting masterpiece. Nas delivers aggressive, battle-ready bars with unwavering confidence, proclaiming, “This ain’t rappin’, this is street-hop.” The track became an instant classic, proving that even in an era shifting toward commercial rap, Nas could still create raw, authentic hip-hop that resonated with the streets and purists alike.
7. Ether (2001)
Arguably the most infamous diss track in hip-hop history, “Ether” was Nas’ fiery response to Jay-Z’s “Takeover,” and it left a lasting impact on the rap world. Over a haunting beat, Nas dismantles his rival with scathing insults, clever wordplay, and a confident swagger. Lines like “I got this, locked since Nine-One, I am the truest” reaffirm his standing, while the track’s title has since become synonymous with delivering a devastating lyrical blow. Released on Stillmatic, “Ether” reignited Nas’ career and solidified his reputation as one of the most fearless MCs in hip-hop.
8. Nas Is Like (1999)
With DJ Premier’s signature production, “Nas Is Like” is a lyrical exhibition that showcases Nas at his finest. The beat, constructed from obscure samples, serves as the perfect backdrop for his intricate rhymes and storytelling. Unlike many commercial tracks, this song forgoes a traditional chorus, allowing Nas to deliver pure, unfiltered bars from start to finish. Each verse is packed with dense imagery and complex rhyme schemes, making it a favorite among hip-hop purists. Released on I Am…, “Nas Is Like” is a reminder of his technical brilliance and poetic mastery.
9. Life’s a Bitch (1994)
A deeply introspective moment on Illmatic, “Life’s a Bitch” features one of the most legendary guest verses in hip-hop history from AZ. Over a smooth, laid-back beat by L.E.S., Nas reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the struggles of growing up in the streets. His line, “I woke up early on my born day, I’m 20, it’s a blessing,” captures the duality of hardship and ambition. The song ends with a soulful trumpet solo from his father, Olu Dara, adding a melancholic, jazz-infused touch that elevates its emotional depth. It remains one of Nas’ most profound songs.
10. I Can (2003)
A rare motivational anthem in Nas’ catalog, “I Can” is an uplifting track aimed at inspiring the younger generation. Built around Beethoven’s Für Elise, the song encourages children to pursue education, avoid street life, and believe in their potential. Unlike his usual gritty storytelling, this song carries a positive, almost educational message while still maintaining his credibility. Released on God’s Son, it became one of his most commercially successful singles, proving that Nas could both uplift and educate while remaining one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop. It stands as a testament to his versatility and enduring impact on the genre.
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.
