Nas’ classic album influenced a ton of rappers over the years. Many of them are in this video.
Nas is returning with the 20th anniversary of his debut, the classic Illmatic. The album redefined rap, and inspired scores of MCs to write their first most complex, lyrical bars.
Now, everyone from Tech N9ne to Kendrick Lamar to Peter Rosenberg are weighing in on the career and accomplishments of Nasir Jones.
Through the lens of Illmatic, with words of wisdom from the prophet Nas himself, “Special Feature: Illmatic XX” is an explosive, engaging journey through the life of a walking god.
Most surprising is how far-reaching Illmatic was in its influence. To be able to change people’s lives in Georgia and California through NYC rap in the early 90s is no mean feat.
Originally appeared at Elite Daily
Photo Elite Daily
About the author: Doran Miller-Rosenberg. Doran is a Brooklyn native and a graduate of SUNY Purchase. As a journalist with musical omnipotence, he has covered rap, politics, sports and pop culture for a wide variety of outlets including Lost Lettermen, Brooklyn Fans, Société Perrier, USA Today and now Elite Daily.