Few artists in hip-hop have left a mark as deep and lasting as Nas. From the moment he stepped onto the scene with Illmatic in 1994, it was clear that a lyrical genius had arrived—one who could turn gritty street tales into poetic masterpieces. Over three decades, Nas has built a legacy defined by raw honesty, powerful storytelling, and razor-sharp lyricism. Whether he’s painting pictures of Queensbridge hustle or sparring with rap’s elite, his voice remains one of the most authentic and influential in the game. His catalog is vast, but some tracks have etched themselves into the culture, becoming timeless anthems that define not just his career, but entire eras of hip-hop. This isn’t just a list of fan favorites—it’s a celebration of the verses that shook the streets, the hooks that inspired generations, and the beats that made heads nod across the globe. From poetic reflections to explosive diss tracks, these are the songs that made Nas a legend. So sit back, press play in your mind, and dive into the top 10 most popular Nas songs of all time—each one a lyrical monument to one of rap’s greatest storytellers.
1. N.Y. State of Mind (1994)
A cornerstone of Nas’s legendary Illmatic debut, “N.Y. State of Mind” is a raw, cinematic journey through the gritty streets of 1990s Queensbridge. Produced by DJ Premier and released in 1994, the track opens with a haunting piano loop and Nas diving almost immediately into vivid storytelling. His flow is relentless, painting images of survival, violence, and street wisdom with an effortless poeticism that stunned the hip-hop world. At just 20 years old, Nas delivered verses that felt like verbal documentaries, grounded in harsh realities but presented with literary finesse. The song’s atmosphere is dark and tense, yet hypnotic, showcasing Nas’s uncanny ability to match lyrical content with mood. “N.Y. State of Mind” isn’t just a song—it’s an experience, a masterclass in urban storytelling that helped solidify Nas as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history.
2. The World Is Yours (1994)
With a soulful piano loop and jazzy beat courtesy of Pete Rock, “The World Is Yours” stands as one of Nas’s most inspirational tracks. Released in 1994 on Illmatic, the song offers a more reflective tone, balancing self-doubt with ambition. Nas raps about his struggles and dreams with a sense of cautious hope, addressing themes of destiny, materialism, and legacy. The chorus—“The world is yours”—is both a mantra and a challenge, encouraging listeners to seize control of their fate. It’s one of the few tracks from Illmatic where Nas allows a glimmer of optimism to shine through the concrete. Pete Rock’s polished production contrasts Nas’s gritty narratives, creating an almost meditative effect. The song became an anthem not only for dreamers in the ‘90s, but for generations of hip-hop fans striving to rise above their circumstances.
3. It Ain’t Hard to Tell (1993)
Nas’s formal introduction to the world came with “It Ain’t Hard to Tell,” the debut single from Illmatic, released in late 1993. Over a hypnotic beat from Large Professor that samples Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature,” Nas delivers a lyrical barrage that feels like spoken jazz. His wordplay is dense, his punchlines sharp, and his confidence palpable. The song is a declaration of lyrical dominance, with lines that show both intelligence and flair. It’s clear Nas knew he was special, and this track was his way of letting the world in on the secret. The production is smooth yet gritty, allowing Nas’s vocals to stay front and center. “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” set the tone for what would become one of the most revered hip-hop albums of all time and proved that Nas wasn’t just another rapper—he was an artist with something vital to say.
4. If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (1996)
By 1996, Nas had ascended to rap royalty, and “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” marked a moment of crossover brilliance. Featured on It Was Written, this track pairs Nas with Lauryn Hill, whose soulful hook reimagines Kurtis Blow’s classic. The song is both a dream and a declaration, imagining a world free of oppression, inequality, and systemic injustice. Nas’s verses are aspirational yet grounded, painting a utopia where the marginalized thrive. It was a sonic shift from the gritty realism of Illmatic, signaling his evolution as an artist with broader ambitions. Lauryn Hill’s vocals elevate the track, delivering a timeless hook that adds warmth and depth. Released during the height of 90s hip-hop’s golden era, “If I Ruled the World” became a commercial success and remains one of Nas’s most accessible and enduring songs.
5. One Mic (2002)
“One Mic,” from 2002’s Stillmatic, is a slow-burning masterpiece that builds from a whisper to a roar. Inspired by the power of simplicity and the idea that one voice can spark change, Nas delivers one of his most emotionally charged performances. The track begins with a sparse beat, allowing his introspective lyrics about inner conflict, societal pressure, and personal pain to take center stage. As the song progresses, the beat intensifies, mirroring the buildup in Nas’s voice until it explodes with righteous fury. Then, just as quickly, it retreats—creating a powerful dynamic arc. The structure is unconventional but perfectly suited to the message. “One Mic” is more than a song—it’s a statement about the transformative power of expression. Nas doesn’t just rap here; he pleads, reflects, and demands to be heard.
6. Ether (2001)
Released in 2001 as part of Stillmatic, “Ether” is one of the most infamous diss tracks in hip-hop history. A direct response to Jay-Z’s “Takeover,” this song reignited one of rap’s most iconic feuds. Nas comes out swinging with venomous bars that attack Jay-Z’s credibility, style, and integrity. The intensity is palpable, with Nas reclaiming his position in the rap hierarchy. The production is eerie and minimal, letting his words strike with full force. What makes “Ether” so effective isn’t just the insults—it’s the calculated craftsmanship behind them. Nas uses wit, sarcasm, and biting humor to dismantle his rival’s image. The track sent shockwaves through the industry and is often cited as a turning point in the “Ether vs. Takeover” debate. It’s a rare moment where Nas traded poetic elegance for pure battle mode—and won.
7. Made You Look (2002)
“Made You Look” is Nas at his most defiant, returning to his boom-bap roots with a ferocious energy. Released in 2002 on God’s Son, the track features a thunderous beat crafted from the iconic Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache,” repurposed by producer Salaam Remi. Nas sounds reinvigorated, spitting with power and precision. The song is a celebration of raw hip-hop, a rallying cry against the commercialization of the genre. With lines that flex lyrical dexterity while challenging newcomers and veterans alike, Nas reasserts his dominance. The video, filled with gritty New York visuals, helped cement the song as a street anthem. “Made You Look” is Nas reminding the world that despite trends and industry shifts, real rap still lives—and he’s its torchbearer.
8. Hate Me Now (1999)
“Hate Me Now,” released in 1999 from the I Am… album, is a thunderous declaration of self-worth and resilience. Featuring Puff Daddy on the hook, the song captured the defiant energy of a rapper unbothered by criticism or controversy. The orchestral production, complete with dramatic strings and pounding drums, gives the track an almost regal quality. Nas uses this backdrop to confront his detractors head-on, embracing his fame while acknowledging the burden of public scrutiny. The song sparked controversy with its provocative video, but it also became a symbol of strength and pride. Nas doesn’t ask for acceptance—he demands respect. “Hate Me Now” is brash, bold, and unforgettable, marking a moment where Nas fully embraced the spotlight, haters and all.
9. Life’s a Bitch (1994)
A standout from the Illmatic album, “Life’s a Bitch” is both bleak and beautiful. Released in 1994, it features a stellar guest verse from AZ and a rare appearance by Nas’s father, Olu Dara, playing cornet on the outro. The song captures the fleeting nature of life, especially in the inner city, where joy is often overshadowed by hardship. Nas’s verse is introspective, reflecting on growing up too fast and the harsh lessons learned in the streets. AZ’s verse is equally memorable, introducing a voice that would go on to be highly respected in hip-hop. The jazzy instrumental, laid back but melancholic, adds emotional weight. “Life’s a Bitch” is a sobering meditation on mortality and a reminder of how precious—and precarious—life can be.
10. Nas Is Like (1999)
“Nas Is Like,” released in 1999 as a lead single from I Am…, is a lyrical showcase set to a hypnotic DJ Premier beat. The track is a return to the essence of what made Nas a legend—dense rhymes, vivid imagery, and razor-sharp delivery. Premier’s production is minimalist but haunting, built around obscure samples that make the beat feel timeless. Nas uses the space to flex his lyrical muscles, offering metaphors, similes, and philosophical musings with ease. “Nas Is Like” is pure hip-hop at its finest—no gimmicks, no frills, just bars. It served as a reminder to fans and critics alike that Nas hadn’t lost his touch, even as the genre evolved. The song remains a favorite among purists and a benchmark for lyrical excellence.
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.
