Nasir Jones (born September 14, 1973), known simply as Nas, formerly Nasty Nas, is an American rapper. Son of jazz musician Olu Dara, Nas is well known for his 1994 debut album Illmatic, which many consider to be one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.[1] This album established Nas as one of hip-hop's most profound lyricists, introducing his signature poetic style. Raised in the notorious Queensbridge housing projects in New York City, he represents a continuation of a hip-hop tradition in Queensbridge that has spanned through early hip-hop, including the Juice Crew, Mobb Deep, and MC Shan.
Birth name Nasir Jones
Also known as Nasty Nas
Born September 14, 1973 (1973-09-14) (age 34)
Origin Queensbridge, New York City
Genre(s) Hip Hop
Occupation(s) Rapper, songwriter, record producer, executive producer, actor
Years active 1991 – present
Label(s) Columbia, Def Jam, Ill Will
Associated acts AZ, Kelis, The Game, Nature, Cormega, Big Pun, The Wu-Tang Clan, Jennifer Lopez, Tragedy Khadafi, Jay-Z, Bravehearts, Mobb Deep
Influences Rakim, Kool G Rap, MC Shan, Slick Rick, Juice Crew
1994: Illmatic
1996: It Was Written
1999: I Am…
1999: Nastradamus
2001: Stillmatic
2002: The Lost Tapes
2002: God's Son
2004: Street's Disciple
2006: Hip Hop Is Dead
2008: Nigger
Nas Is Like
I Can
If I ruled The world
Halftime
Cant Forget About You
Shine on 'Em
Classic ft Krs One, Kanye West and Rakim
One Mic
World Is Yours
Freestyle (with Biggie)
Interview