Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, known simply as Nas, stands as a cornerstone in the realm of hip-hop, an iconic figure whose lyrical prowess and introspective storytelling have solidified his place in the pantheon of rap legends. With a career spanning over three decades, Nas has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, captivating audiences with his raw emotion, thought-provoking narratives, and impeccable flow. In this article, we embark on a journey through the expanse of Nas’ discography, delving into the very essence of his artistry to compile a definitive list of the top 10 best Nas songs of all time.
From his seminal debut album, “Illmatic,” which has been hailed as one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever recorded, to his more recent releases, Nas has maintained an unwavering commitment to his craft, delivering vivid verses that weave tales of street life, social commentary, and personal growth. Each song on this meticulously curated list represents a distinctive chapter in Nas’ artistic evolution, showcasing his ability to capture the complex nuances of the human experience with unparalleled authenticity.
Join us as we traverse through the sonic tapestry that is Nas’ remarkable career, exploring the timeless classics, the hidden gems, and the tracks that have left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape. Brace yourself for a captivating journey into the mind and soul of one of rap’s greatest lyricists as we celebrate the top 10 best Nas songs, each a testament to his enduring legacy.
1. It Ain’t Hard To Tell
The renowned song, known for its incredible wordplay and lyrical prowess, is titled 'It Ain't Hard To Tell'. The iconic track features Nas's unique flow and samples from Michael Jackson's 'Human Nature.' It stands as a poignant reminder of the golden era of rap music, solidifying Nas's status as one of the most talented emcees in the industry. Its classic beats, imaginative rhymes, and relatable lyrics make it a must-have on any hip-hop lover’s playlist.
Continuing with its inventive themes, each verse covers different subject matters ranging from his adolescence to street-life struggles, and uncovering his deeply held fears. Through this track, Nas shares his life experiences that enable listeners to relate to him on a personal level and thus appreciate his music even more.
To add value to your music catalog, you should consider listening to more of Nas's discography as he has numerous other songs that display his musical diversity. Some notable mentions are 'NY State of Mind,' 'Memory Lane (Sittin' In Da Park),' 'The World Is Yours,' and 'One Love.' All grasp the attention of their audience through heart-touching verses coupled with thrilling beats.
Listening to 'One Mic' is like being hit with a lyrical sledgehammer – in a good way.
2. One Mic
This track from Nas' 2001 album Stillmatic showcases his storytelling skills over a minimalist Beat. The song's title, 'One Mic,' represents Nas' desire to have one microphone, rather than the multiple mics that are commonly used in rap performances. With this singular focus, Nas delivers a heartfelt message about societal struggles and the power of individual voice. His intense and emotive performance on this song solidifies it as one of his best works.
In 'One Mic,' Nas tells the story of a young man who is forced to navigate through poverty, violence and despair in an attempt to find meaning and purpose in life. He uses vivid descriptions and poetic language to paint a picture of urban life that is both raw and powerful. The repeated refrain "all I need is one mic" drives home the idea that sometimes less is more when it comes to artistic expression.
Interestingly enough, 'One Mic' almost didn't make it onto Stillmatic due to disagreements with Nas' record label at the time. Luckily for us, he fought hard for its inclusion and it has since become a fan favorite at live shows.
Overall, 'One Mic' is a shining example of Nas' lyrical prowess and ability to captivate audiences with his wordsmithing. Its important social commentary resonate even today, making it a timeless masterpiece in the world of hip-hop music.
If you didn't know Nas before 'Got Ur Self A…', you definitely knew him after he spit "I'm the N the A to the S-I-R".
3. Got Ur Self A
Crafting unique songs with hard-hitting lyrics is what NAS is known for. The third-best song of all time recognized by him, now immortalized as "Got Ur Self A…" talks about the realities of hustling and its lawlessness. Here's a closer look at this masterpiece.
- With beats inspired by Eastern music and heavy basslines, the song's production is a force to be reckoned with.
- The lyrics touch on a range of topics, from police brutality to gun control to utilizing money from the drug trade.
- NAS's storytelling ability shines in verses that interconnects themes of survival, perseverance and doing whatever it takes to succeed.
In this track, NAS innovatively provides real-life snapshots into situations going on in impoverished neighbourhoods worldwide. By merging his emblematic rapping style with music production that elevates the listening experience, he reminds us that there are no rules in life when you're striving towards success.
It's worth noting that "Got Ur Self A…" samples keyboards from two tracks produced by hip-hop producer Marley Marl – EPMD's "You're a Customer" (1987) and Lin Que's "Let It Fall" (1995), giving it a classic feel.
Even if you've never been to New York, listening to Nas' 'N.Y. State of Mind' will make you feel like a certified gangster.
4. N.Y. State Of Mind
With his stunning lyrical talent, Nas offers a glimpse of his life in 'The Empire State' through his all-time hit "State Of Mind". Depicting the harsh reality of life in New York City, he raps about the daily struggles of poverty, drugs, violence and survival. Using metaphorical lyrics and vivid imagery he paints a realistic picture of urban life. It is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt trapped or oppressed by their surroundings. This track solidified Nas' status as one of the top hip-hop artists of all time.
Continuing on the thread of Nas' New York inspired rap songs, "N.Y. State Of Mind" showcases a mix of boastful rhymes combined with deeper reflections on life experiences while growing up in Queensbridge housing projects. His distinctive voice flows seamlessly throughout this song over a raw beat produced by DJ Premier that gives listeners an authentic feel.
A standout feature of this piece is how Nas innovatively delivers thought-provoking lines that remain memorable long after the song has ended. The song strikes an emotional chord with listeners due to its authenticity and rawness.
Pro-tip: Listening to "N.Y. State Of Mind" with a good sound system can help appreciate the melodic nature of his vocal flow combined with soulful samples used throughout the production.
If Nas ruled the world, we'd all have champagne wishes and caviar dreams…and maybe a little more social justice too.
5. If I Ruled the World
This hit song by Nas and Lauryn Hill, often seen as a timeless classic, imagines the world under Nas's rule. The lyrics echo themes of unity, peace, and prosperity in a harmonious society where everyone is equal and happy. The chorus – "If I Ruled the World" – encourages humanity to rise together against apathy and injustice. This song became an anthem that inspired generations to fight for justice, reminding listeners that civic engagement can shape the future.
The track was released in 1996 as part of Nas's second studio album "It Was Written." It features a sample from the 1983 track "Friends," performed by Whodini and produced by Larry Smith. The song has been covered extensively since its release, showing how much impact it had on hip-hop culture worldwide.
Pro Tip: When listening to this song, pay close attention to the message embedded within the lyrics- it will inspire you towards positive change.
6. I Can't Believe Nas Made Such a Great Song About Literacy
6. I Can
One of Nas’ best works, ‘I Can’ is a motivational song that encourages kids to believe in themselves and strive for greatness. The lyrics emphasize the importance of education, cultural pride, and self-respect. The upbeat tempo and clever wordplay make this track stand out from other motivational tunes.
Nas understands the power of words and uses them to inspire hope in the next generation. His rhymes are filled with clever metaphors that encourage children to take control of their futures. By instilling pride in African American culture, he helps kids feel connected to their history and empowers them to reach for success.
It’s not difficult to see why ‘I Can’ has been hailed as one of Nas’ most inspirational songs. The uplifting lyrics combined with a catchy beat make it impossible not to dance along. This song is perfect for anyone who needs a little boost of confidence or motivation.
To get the most out of ‘I Can,’ try listening to it while working on a project or studying for an exam. Allow its positive energy and message to help you stay focused and determined.
Nas is like a chameleon on the mic, constantly evolving and adapting – but always leaving his mark.
7. Nas Is Like
Described as ‘Nasty Nas’, rapper Nas has had a long-standing career with an exceptional catalog. His hit song "Nas Is Like" from the album "I Am…" is deemed one of his best songs of all time. The hard-hitting beat paired with Nas' lyrical prowess and storytelling make for a classic hip-hop track that encapsulates what he brings to the rap game.
With thought-provoking lyrics reminiscent of the golden age of rap, this song stands out as an ode to where Nas comes from and where he's headed. Nas' skills shine through in every verse, painting vivid pictures that transport you to a different era while still being relatable today. The intricate wordplay, flow patterns, and themes showcased in "Nas Is Like" are evidence of why he remains one of the greatest rappers of our time.
In addition to its nostalgic value, the impact of this song on hip-hop culture cannot be denied. "Nas Is Like" has been sampled multiple times by other artists, proving its influence and longevity.
Truly one of Nas' greatest creations, "Nas Is Like" continues to stand the test of time as a reminder of why he is considered among the best in the rap game. It's good to know Nas has a softer side, but let's face it – we're all here for the gritty tales of street life.
8. Daughters
This Nas song, which stands at the eighth position on our list, sheds light on the relationship between fathers and daughters. Through its heartfelt lyrics and soulful music, it reveals the importance of nurturing this bond with care and understanding.
'Daughters' showcases Nas' ability to connect with his listeners through emotional storytelling. He offers his personal experiences and insights into fatherhood, urging fathers to take responsibility for their actions and words towards their daughters. The song's blend of introspective reflection and bold social commentary make it a standout in Nas' extensive repertoire.
One unique aspect of this song is its emphasis on self-reflection – not just for fathers but also for daughters. Nas encourages young women to understand their worth and value, pushing back against societal norms that often undermine their sense of self-worth. Through stirring rhymes and poetic imagery, 'Daughters' inspires listeners to strive towards building strong family bonds built upon mutual respect, trust, and love.
For those looking to strengthen their relationships with their children or loved ones, 'Daughters' serves as an effective guidepost. Its message resonates far beyond the four-minute runtime as it sparks important conversations about parenthood, gender roles, and identity in modern society.
Rewind, because Nas knows how to reverse time better than Doctor Strange.
9. Rewind
Revisiting the Past: A Guide to Nas' 'Rewind'
Navigate Nas' lyrical storytelling with his track, 'Rewind'. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Listen carefully as the first verse does not follow traditional narrative order.
- Pay attention to pronouns used in the song as they change throughout.
- Understand that the story of a dice game gone wrong is being told in reverse chronological order.
- Take note of the sound effects added to the track, emphasizing the reversal theme.
- Embrace Nas' unique and creative approach to storytelling through music.
Interestingly, 'Rewind' was once criticized by some for its unconventional storytelling approach. In contrast, others praised it for its innovative use of language and structure. Nevertheless, it remains one of Nas' unforgettable tracks with fans still drawn to its fascinating premise today.
If the world really was Nas' oyster, he'd have a heck of a time trying to find the pearl in this classic track.
10. The World Is Yours
For the tenth greatest Nas song of all time, the acclaimed artist delivers an empowering message with his hit 'The Universe Belongs to You'. The song is a testament to the rapper's ability to craft rhymes that inspire and motivate listeners.
Here is a breakdown of the lyrics:
| Verse 1 | Nas introduces the notion that he has accomplished what he wants and now it is your turn |
| Chorus | 'The world is yours' – repeated twice, driving home its message in force |
| Verse 2 | Nas emphasizes that even though others may have more wealth or power, they cannot possess the vastness of the universe. |
'The Universe Belongs to You' stands out from other Nas songs due to its emphasis on encouraging self-belief in one's own potential. This track resonates with individuals who struggle with feelings of inadequacy or insecurity because it reminds them that they have infinite possibilities at their disposal.
Interestingly, Nas penned this popular tune during a period where he faced many challenges in his personal life. He used his adversity as fuel for his music and turned negative experiences into positive messages for fans.
According to XXL Magazine, 'The Universe Belongs To You' was Nas’s third single off his debut album Illmatic, which was released on April 19, 1994. The song became an instant hit right after its release and remains one of his most memorable tracks.
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.
