When Nas dropped Illmatic in 1994, the hip-hop world shifted forever. With razor-sharp lyricism, cinematic storytelling, and a voice that captured the raw pulse of New York City’s streets, Nas didn’t just enter the rap game—he redefined it. Widely hailed as one of the greatest MCs of all time, Nas has built a legacy on introspection, social commentary, and lyrical mastery. From gritty tales of survival to philosophical reflections on identity, power, and legacy, his music bridges the gap between poetry and the pavement.
Over the decades, Nas has remained a dominant force in hip-hop, evolving with the times while staying true to his roots. Whether he’s sparring with rivals on wax, reflecting on his place in the culture, or elevating the genre with Grammy-winning projects like King’s Disease, Nas consistently proves that real artistry never ages.
In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Nas Songs of All Time—the tracks that defined his career, moved the culture, and earned him a permanent spot in the rap pantheon. From underground classics to mainstream bangers, these songs are the soundtrack of a lyrical genius. So press play and take a deep dive into the legacy of a true hip-hop icon.
1. The World Is Yours (1994)
Unlike the bleak, hard-hitting realism of other tracks on Illmatic, The World Is Yours offers something different—hope. Over a jazzy, soulful beat produced by Pete Rock, Nas reflects on struggle, ambition, and the pursuit of greatness. The chorus, sampled from Ahmad Jamal’s I Love Music, gives the song a timeless, uplifting feel, reinforcing its message of self-determination. Nas’s verses are filled with wisdom beyond his years, balancing street knowledge with introspection. Lines like “I’m out for presidents to represent me” capture his hunger for success while acknowledging the realities of systemic struggles. The song isn’t just about Nas—it’s a universal anthem for anyone striving to rise above their circumstances. With its smooth yet powerful vibe, The World Is Yours remains one of the most inspiring tracks in hip-hop history.
2. N.Y. State of Mind (1994)
Few songs in hip-hop history capture the essence of street life like N.Y. State of Mind. From the moment the haunting piano loop kicks in, Nas takes listeners deep into the gritty reality of Queensbridge. Produced by DJ Premier, the track is raw, unfiltered, and cinematic, showcasing Nas’s intricate storytelling and razor-sharp lyricism. His opening line—”Rappers, I monkey flip ’em with the funky rhythm”—immediately establishes his dominance as a wordsmith. Throughout the song, his multisyllabic rhymes paint a vivid picture of crime, survival, and ambition in 90s New York. The tension in his voice, paired with Premier’s minimalist but menacing beat, makes this track feel like a first-person experience of life in the trenches. More than just a song, N.Y. State of Mind is a landmark in hip-hop, embodying the raw poetry and realism that made Illmatic a classic.
3. One Mic (2002)
Few songs capture raw passion and intensity like One Mic. Inspired by Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight, the track builds from quiet introspection to an explosive climax, mirroring Nas’s increasing intensity. The stripped-down production allows his words to take center stage, making every bar hit with precision. The song’s structure—starting soft and gradually escalating—creates an unparalleled listening experience. In his verses, Nas reflects on fame, struggle, and resilience, painting a vivid picture of a man driven by purpose. Lines like “All I need is one mic” emphasize the power of his voice, reinforcing the idea that hip-hop is more than music—it’s a movement. One Mic is not just a song; it’s an emotional journey and one of the most powerful statements in Nas’s career.
4. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (1996)
Featuring the soulful vocals of Lauryn Hill, If I Ruled the World is a hip-hop masterpiece that blends fantasy with social commentary. Over a polished, melodic beat produced by Trackmasters, Nas imagines a world free from oppression, where dreams come true and justice prevails. His verses touch on themes of liberation, power, and ambition, making it both a street anthem and a song of hope. Lauryn Hill’s hook, borrowing from Friends by Whodini, adds an ethereal quality that elevates the track. This song marked a turning point in Nas’s career, proving he could balance hardcore lyricism with mainstream appeal without sacrificing substance. It became one of his biggest hits, resonating with audiences far beyond hip-hop’s core. Even today, If I Ruled the World remains an anthem for dreamers and visionaries.
5. Nas Is Like (1999)
A lyrical showcase of the highest order, Nas Is Like is pure, unfiltered hip-hop. Produced by DJ Premier, the beat is an iconic blend of chopped samples and head-nodding drums, providing the perfect backdrop for Nas’s intricate wordplay. Unlike most songs, there’s no traditional hook—just the repeated phrase “Nas is like…”—allowing his verses to take full focus. Every line is packed with dense metaphors, clever punchlines, and thought-provoking imagery. The song is a reminder of why Nas is considered one of the greatest MCs of all time. With its raw energy and technical brilliance, Nas Is Like remains a fan favorite and a staple of true hip-hop lyricism.
6. Hate Me Now (1999)
A defiant, high-energy anthem, Hate Me Now sees Nas embracing his success despite the critics and haters. Featuring dramatic ad-libs from Diddy and a grandiose beat by Trackmasters, the song exudes arrogance and triumph. The music video, which infamously depicted Nas being crucified, sparked controversy but reinforced the track’s rebellious spirit. This song is all about perseverance, proving that success often comes with resistance. The booming production and aggressive delivery make Hate Me Now one of Nas’s most electrifying tracks. Whether you see it as boastful or motivational, there’s no denying its impact as an anthem for anyone who refuses to be held back.
7. Made You Look (2002)
With its hard-hitting, boom-bap beat sampled from Apache by the Incredible Bongo Band, Made You Look is a return to Nas’s street-heavy roots. His aggressive flow and commanding presence make this track an undeniable banger. The song became a favorite in underground hip-hop circles and remains a staple in his live performances. Every bar feels like a battle cry, reminding the world why Nas is one of the best to ever do it. No gimmicks, no mainstream polish—just pure, unfiltered lyricism. Made You Look is a testament to Nas’s ability to keep it real while delivering timeless hits.
8. Ether (2001)
No rap feud is complete without Ether, Nas’s legendary diss track aimed at Jay-Z. Over a pounding beat by Ron Browz, Nas dismantles his rival with ruthless precision, throwing punch after punch in a lyrical assault. The track was so powerful that “ether” became slang for utterly destroying an opponent in battle rap. Ether wasn’t just about personal insults—it was a declaration that Nas was still a force to be reckoned with. The song’s release reignited his career, proving that he could go toe-to-toe with any challenger. To this day, it remains one of the most infamous diss tracks in hip-hop history, setting the bar for rap battles.
9. Hip Hop Is Dead (2006)
With Hip Hop Is Dead, Nas made a bold statement about the state of the genre, calling out the commercialization and lack of originality in rap music. Featuring a sample from In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida and a guest appearance from will.i.am, the song sparked widespread debate. Nas’s sharp criticism resonated with hip-hop purists, making the track more than just a hit—it became a cultural moment. His message was clear: authenticity matters. The track stands as a battle cry for preserving the art form, proving that Nas isn’t just a rapper—he’s a guardian of hip-hop’s soul.
10. Life’s a Bitch (1994)
One of the most introspective tracks on Illmatic, Life’s a Bitch is a deeply reflective song that explores the fleeting nature of life. Featuring a legendary guest verse from AZ and a smooth, jazz-infused beat by L.E.S., the song captures the struggles and aspirations of young men growing up in harsh environments. The outro, a soulful trumpet solo by Nas’s father, Olu Dara, adds a deeply personal touch. The contrast between the harsh realities in the lyrics and the smooth instrumentation makes this track one of hip-hop’s most poetic moments. It’s a song that speaks to the soul, offering both hard truths and a sense of beauty in life’s impermanence.
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.
