Nas

Widely regarded as one of the best MCs of his generation, New York born Nas has had a prolific and lucrative career in hip hop, releasing his debut 'Illmatic' in 1994 on Columbia Records. The album became a critically acclaimed hip hop blueprint and Nas was applauded for his raw rapping style. His discography boasts eight other records, including 'It Was Written', 'Nastradamus' and the controversial 'Hip Hop is Dead'.

The MC’s writing talents have been somewhat overshadowed in the media by his feud with Jay-Z, whom he lacerated in 'Ether'. The 'Stillmatic' track contains alarming homophobic lyrics, including the dismal play on words, 'Gay-Z'.

But tracks like 'I Can' ('Gods Son') reveal the side of Nas for which he is best known: melodic sampling (Beethoven's 'Fur Elise' in this case) and heartfelt, intelligent lyrics.

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