It Aint Hard to Tell that Nas' debut album, "Illmatic," turns 29 years old this year. Released on April 19th, 1994, on “Columbia Records “Illmatic" is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.
From the very first track, "NY State of Mind," Nas delivers a vivid picture of life in the Queensbridge projects. With incredible lyrical abilities and crazy flow, Jones takes listeners on a journey through the streets of New York City, touching on themes of poverty, crime, and the struggle for survival.
What sets "Illmatic" apart from other hip-hop albums of its time is its rawness and authenticity. Sometimes I am still amazed that he was just 19 years old!
"Illmatic" isn't just a gritty portrayal of life in the ghetto. It's also a celebration of hip-hop culture, paying homage to the pioneers who came before him.
Tracks like "The World Is Yours" and "It Ain't Hard to Tell" are timeless classics, with unforgettable beats and lyrics that have stood the test of time. And with collaborations with legendary producers like DJ Premier and Q-Tip, "Illmatic" is a masterclass in the art of hip-hop production. This was the first HIP HOP album to feature a cast of star producers.
Nearly three decades after its release, "Illmatic" remains a landmark album in hip-hop history, inspiring countless artists and earning its place as a true classic. What is your favorite song from NAS’ ILLMATIC??
