In this piece, we will take a deep dive into one of the most legendary albums in the history of Hip Hop – Nas’s Illmatic. Released in 1994, Illmatic marked the arrival of one of the greatest lyricists in the game and announced the arrival of a new era of Hip Hop that was gritty, raw, and unapologetically real.
Over the course of 10 tracks, Nas takes us on a journey through the streets of Queensbridge, New York, painting vivid pictures of the struggles, triumphs, and tragedies that he witnessed firsthand. From the opening sounds of “The Genesis,” where a subway train rumbles to life to set the stage for what’s to come, to the final strains of “It Ain’t Hard to Tell,” where Nas confidently declares that “Nas will prevail,” Illmatic is a masterpiece of storytelling, lyrical dexterity, and raw emotion.
In this track-by-track breakdown, we’ll explore each of the songs on Illmatic in-depth, examining the beats, the rhymes, and the messages that Nas was trying to convey. We’ll look at classics like “N.Y. State of Mind,” where Nas paints a harrowing picture of life in the projects, and “Life’s a B****,” where he teams up with AZ to reflect on the ups and downs of life in the inner city. We’ll also examine some of the deeper cuts on the album, like “One Love,” where Nas writes a letter to his friend in prison, and “The World Is Yours,” where he delivers one of the most iconic hooks in the history of Hip Hop. We’ll talk about the samples that were used to create the beats, the production contributions from Hip Hop legends like Q-Tip and Pete Rock, and how Illmatic has influenced generations of MCs who have come after Nas.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to take a journey through one of the greatest albums in Hip Hop history. This is Nas’s Illmatic, and it’s time to break it down track by track.
The Genesis
“The Genesis” is the atmospheric introductory track on Nas’s seminal debut album and it effectively sets the tone for the entire project. The track features a sample from Grand Wizard Theodore‘s “Subway Theme” from the 1983 film Wild Style, the first major Hip Hop movie. The sample from “Wild Style” is a nod to the classic era of Hip Hop and serves as a reminder of the genre’s roots. “The Genesis” is an important track in the context of Illmatic because it serves as a prelude to the lyrical masterpiece that follows. Nas uses the track to set the stage for the stories he will tell throughout the album.
NY State Of Mind
“New York State of Mind” is not only the opening song of Illmatic, but it is also widely considered one of the greatest Hip Hop songs of all time. The beat, produced by DJ Premier, is a minimalist masterpiece, built around a sample from Joe Chambers’ “Mind Rain” (1978). The looped piano riff is haunting and sets the tone for Nas’s vivid and gritty storytelling. The drums are simple yet effective, providing a hard-hitting backdrop for Nas’s lyrical prowess.
Nas’s rhymes on “New York State of Mind” are a reflection of the harsh realities of life in the Queensbridge projects. He doesn’t hold back in his descriptions of the violence, poverty, and desperation that he witnessed firsthand. Nas’s ability to paint a picture with his words is on full display in this song. His flow is effortless, his delivery is flawless, and his storytelling is second to none. He uses vivid imagery to describe the streets of Queensbridge, comparing himself to a ninja, a criminal mastermind, and a lone survivor. Nas’s rhymes on “New York State of Mind” are a masterclass in Hip Hop storytelling.
The impact of “New York State of Mind” on the Hip Hop world cannot be overstated. It served as a wake-up call to the rest of the industry, announcing the arrival of a new MC who was not only an incredible lyricist but also unafraid to speak truth to power. Nas’s influence on the genre is immeasurable, and “New York State of Mind” is a perfect example of why he is held in such high regard. The song has been sampled numerous times over the years, including by artists like Wu-Tang Clan, Jay-Z, and Eminem, among others. It has also been used in films, television shows, and video games, cementing its place in popular culture.
In conclusion, “New York State of Mind” is a Hip Hop classic that has stood the test of time. It’s a testament to Nas’s lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities, as well as DJ Premier’s production skills. The song’s impact on the genre is undeniable, and it set the tone for Nas’s career as a whole.
Life's A Bitch
Let’s dive into “Life’s a Bitch,” one of the absolute standout tracks on this album. The song was produced by L.E.S. and features a guest verse from AZ. The song also features Nas’s father, Olu Dara, playing a trumpet solo as the music fades out. The beat is built around a sample from “Yearning for Your Love” by The Gap Band, which L.E.S. expertly flips into a smooth, jazzy instrumental that perfectly complements Nas’s introspective lyrics.
“Life’s a Bitch” is a meditation on the ups and downs of life in the inner city. Nas reflects on his struggles growing up in the Queensbridge projects, acknowledging the poverty and violence that surrounded him. But he also celebrates the moments of joy and triumph that he experienced along the way, like falling in love or achieving success as an MC. Nas’s rhymes are thoughtful and introspective, showcasing his ability to weave together personal anecdotes with larger social commentary.
The guest verse from AZ is equally impressive, in fact, it is one of the best guest verses in Hip Hop history. AZ’s flow is smooth and effortless, and his rhymes touch on themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the pursuit of success. Together, Nas and AZ make for a formidable duo, trading verses with ease and delivering some of the most memorable lines on the album.
“Life’s a Bitch” is a perfect example of Nas’s ability to balance introspection with social commentary. He doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life in the inner city, but he also acknowledges the moments of beauty and joy that can be found in even the toughest of circumstances. The beat, with its smooth jazz sample and laid-back drums, provides the perfect backdrop for Nas and AZ’s thoughtful rhymes.
“Life’s a Bitch” is a standout track on an album full of classic Hip Hop songs. The production from L.E.S. is top-notch, and the use of The Gap Band sample is a stroke of genius. Nas’s rhymes are thoughtful and introspective, and AZ’s guest verse adds another layer of depth to the song. It’s a track that showcases the best of what Hip Hop can be: a reflection of life’s struggles and triumphs, set to a beat that makes you want to nod your head and reflect on your own experiences.
The World Is Yours
Produced by the legendary Pete Rock, “The World Is Yours” is built around a sample from Ahmad Jamal’s “I Love Music” (1970). The smooth jazz-infused beat serves as the perfect backdrop for Nas’ introspective lyrics, as he reflects on his upbringing and the struggles he faced growing up in Queensbridge. The song’s chorus, “The world is yours, the world is yours/It’s mine, it’s mine, it’s mine,” has become an anthem for those striving to make their dreams a reality. Nas urges listeners to pursue their passions and not be held back by the limitations of their surroundings.
“The World Is Yours” has had a significant impact on Hip Hop culture, with its influence being felt in the work of countless artists. The song has been sampled by other musicians, including Jay-Z, Eminem, Wu-Tang Clan, J Dilla, Blu, and Kendrick Lamar, among others. “The World Is Yours” has also been featured in several films and TV shows, including the hit series “Breaking Bad.” The song’s message of perseverance and determination has resonated with audiences across generations and has become a cultural touchstone in its own right.
“The World Is Yours” is a testament to Nas’ lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities. With its unforgettable chorus and smooth jazz-infused beat, the song has become a classic, inspiring generations of artists to pursue their dreams and overcome adversity. Pete Rock’s production and Nas’ lyrics and delivery make for a perfect marriage, creating a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and influence even now.
Halftime
Produced by Large Professor, “Halftime” samples the bassline from “Schoolboy Crush” (1975) by Average White Band, and the drums from “Soul Travelin’ Pt. 1” (1973) by Gary Byrd. The hard-hitting beat sets the stage for Nas’ gritty rhymes about life in the streets of Queensbridge. He touches on themes of poverty, violence, and the struggle to make a name for oneself in the rap game.
The song’s title refers to the idea of being in the middle of a game or battle, with halftime serving as a moment to reflect and strategize before returning to the action. For Nas, “Halftime” represents a turning point in his career, as he uses the track to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip hop.
“Halftime” has had a lasting impact on the genre, with its influence being felt in the work of countless artists. The song’s hard-hitting beat and gritty lyrics have become hallmarks of the classic East Coast sound, and its use of samples has inspired producers to experiment with a wide range of sources in their own work. “Halftime” is a standout track on an album full of classics, showcasing Nas’ lyrical ability and capturing the essence of life in Queensbridge.
Memory Lane (Sittin' in da Park)
“Memory Lane” is one of the most poetic tracks on Illmatic. Produced by DJ Premier, “Memory Lane” features a sample from “We’re in Love” (1971) by Rueben Wilson, which provides a lush, soulful backdrop for Nas to reflect on his life growing up in Queensbridge. In “Memory Lane,” Nas takes listeners on a journey through his past, reminiscing about the people and places that shaped him as an artist and as a person. He raps about his friends who have passed away, the struggles he faced growing up in the projects, and the music that inspired him to pursue his dreams.
The song’s title refers to the idea of revisiting one’s memories and reflecting on the past. For Nas, “Memory Lane” is a way of paying homage to the people and places that have influenced his life and career, and it serves as a reminder of the struggles he overcame to get to where he is today.
The poetic lyrics and soulful samples on “Memory Lane” have become hallmarks of the classic East Coast sound, and its use of storytelling and introspection has inspired a generation of rappers to dig deep and explore their own personal histories. With its use of soulful samples and introspective lyrics, the song has become an influential part of Hip Hop history, inspiring generations of artists to explore their own personal narratives and reflect on the people and places that have shaped them. DJ Premier’s production and Nas’ delivery make for a perfect marriage, creating a masterpiece that continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
One Love
The message of “One Love” is simple but powerful – it’s a letter from Nas to a friend who’s currently in jail. The lyrics vividly paint a picture of life in the projects, capturing both the struggle and the sense of community that’s so crucial in that environment. Nas also offers words of encouragement and advice to his friend, telling him to stay strong and stay focused on the future. But even beyond its direct message to Nas’ incarcerated friend, “One Love” has a broader significance. It’s a tribute to the bonds of brotherhood that exist in communities like Queensbridge, where people look out for each other and support each other through thick and thin. It’s a reminder that, no matter how tough things get, there’s always someone who has your back.
Produced by Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest, “One Love” samples “One Love” (1986) by Whodini and “Smilin’ Billy Suite Pt. II” (1975) by The Heath Brothers, layering a jazzy, soulful backdrop under Nas’ intricate rhymes. The track also features Q-Tip himself on the chorus, adding an extra layer of smoothness to the already silky production. Q-Tip’s chorus, with its refrain of “One love, one love, you’re lucky just to have just one love,” adds an extra layer of soulfulness to the track. But it’s not just the sound of his voice that makes an impact – Q-Tip is also a key representative of the Native Tongues movement, the collective of artists who placed a high value on positivity, community, and uplifting messages in their music. By having him on the track, Nas is signaling his own alignment with those values.
“One Love” is a masterful piece of storytelling that captures the essence of life in the projects while also emphasizing the importance of brotherhood and connection. It’s a track that’s as powerful and relevant today as it was when it first came out, a testament to the enduring power of great Hip Hop music.
One Time 4 Your Mind
Produced by Large Professor, “One Time 4 Your Mind” features a sample from “Walter L” (1969) by Jimmy Gordon, which creates a smooth and soulful soundscape for Nas to deliver his stream-of-consciousness lyrics. What really stands out about “One Time 4 Your Mind” is Nas’ flow. He raps in a relaxed, conversational style, using pauses and inflections to give his words added weight and meaning. His rhymes are packed with vivid imagery and both lighthearted and thought-provoking observations, showing both the joy and the pain that can be found in the everyday struggles of life.
In terms of its place within Illmatic, “One Time 4 Your Mind” is often considered one of the lesser-known tracks on the album. It’s not as instantly recognizable as songs like “N.Y. State of Mind”, “One Love”, “Life’s A Bitch”, or “The World Is Yours,” but it’s still an important piece of the overall puzzle.
Represent
“Represent” is one of the grittiest tracks on Illmatic, similar in vibe to “NY State Of Mind”. Like “NY State Of Mind”, “Represent” is produced by DJ Premier and built around a George Clinton drumline and a sample of “Thief of Bagdad” by organist Lee Erwin from the 1974 film of the same name. From the opening bars, “Represent” grabs your attention with Nas coming through with some of his most visceral rhymes on the album with lines like “Straight up, shit is real / And any day could be your last in the jungle / Get murdered on a humble, guns’ll blast, n****s tumble“. He paints a vivid picture of life in the streets, with lyrics that capture both the danger and the excitement of that world. Nas’ flow is urgent and intense here, perfectly matching the similarly impactful production.
It Ain't Hard to Tell
Nas’ braggadocious lyrics are on full display here, with lines like “Nas is like the Afrocentric Asian: half-man, half-amazin’ / ‘Cause in my physical I can express through song / Delete stress like Motrin, then extend strong / I drink Moët with Medusa, give her shotguns in Hell / From the spliff that I lift and inhale; it ain’t hard to tell” showcasing his confidence and skill. He’s at the top of his game, effortlessly weaving together complex rhymes and clever wordplay.
But it’s not just Nas’ lyrical prowess that makes “It Ain’t Hard to Tell” such a standout track. The production is equally impressive, with Large Professor crafting a beat that perfectly complements Nas’ flow. The smooth jazz samples provide a lush backdrop for Nas’ rhymes, creating a sound that’s both timeless and unmistakably 90s. The song’s chorus is one of its most memorable moments, with a sample of Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature” providing the backdrop for Nas’ repetition of the phrase “It ain’t hard to tell”. It’s a simple yet effective hook that sticks with you long after the song is over.
“It Ain’t Hard to Tell” is a fitting conclusion to Illmatic, showcasing Nas’ undeniable talent and cementing his place in the pantheon of Hip Hop greats.
Nas’s Illmatic is a timeless masterpiece that continues to influence and inspire Hip Hop artists to this day. The album is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of life in the Queensbridge projects, and Nas’s lyrical abilities are on full display throughout the project.
From the hard-hitting “N.Y. State of Mind” to the introspective “Lifes a Bitch,” each track on Illmatic is a showcase of Nas’s storytelling abilities and his willingness to tackle difficult subjects. The production on the album is top-notch, with contributions from some of the greatest producers in the game, including DJ Premier, Pete Rock, and Large Professor.
One of the most impressive aspects of Illmatic is the way Nas is able to capture the spirit of New York City in the mid-90s. The city was going through a period of transformation and turmoil, and Nas’s music reflects that perfectly. He raps about the crack epidemic, police brutality, and the struggles of inner-city life, but he also highlights the resilience and creativity of the people who call the city home.
The influence of Illmatic on Hip Hop cannot be overstated. The album has been cited as a major influence by countless artists, including Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole. Its impact on the genre is felt to this day, and it remains a benchmark for what a great Hip Hop album should be.
It’s not just the lyrics and production that make Illmatic such a powerful album; it’s also the way Nas is able to convey his emotions through his voice. Whether he’s rapping about the pain of losing friends to violence or the joy of celebrating life’s small victories, Nas’s delivery is always authentic and heartfelt. He has a unique ability to connect with his listeners on a deep and personal level, and that is what makes his music so enduring.
In conclusion, Illmatic is a true masterpiece of Hip Hop. Nas’s ability to tell stories that are both personal and universal is what sets him apart from other MCs, and his music continues to resonate with fans all over the world. The album is a testament to the power of Hip Hop as a storytelling medium and a reflection of the resilience and creativity of the people who call New York City home.
