About this album
Where they were
By the time "Greatest Hits" was released in 2007, Nas was already an established figure in hip-hop, following his celebrated 2006 album "Hip Hop Is Dead." This compilation came at a point when he was reasserting his relevance amidst a changing musical landscape, showcasing his influential catalog while setting the stage for future projects.
Why it matters
This album serves as a comprehensive overview of Nas's career, illustrating his impact on East Coast hip-hop and conscious rap. It features classic tracks that have been pivotal to his legacy, such as "N.Y. State of Mind," which continues to influence countless artists and is often cited in discussions about rap excellence. The release also coincided with Nas's growing reputation as a cultural commentator in the genre.
Essential tracks
- "N.Y. State of Mind" — This track encapsulates Nas's vivid storytelling and lyrical complexity, representing the quintessential New York hip-hop sound.
- "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)" — Featuring Lauryn Hill, this track showcases Nas's ability to merge conscious themes with commercial appeal, highlighting aspirations for social change.
- "One Mic" — A powerful anthem reflecting personal and societal struggles, 'One Mic' is a testament to Nas's skill in conveying deep emotion and urgency through music.
- "Life's a Bitch" — This collaboration with AZ stands out for its philosophical outlook on life and mortality, framed within a classic boom-bap backdrop.
Release Date
November 6, 2007
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Surviving the Times 4:44
- 2 Less Than an Hour (Theme From Rush Hour 3) 3:16
- 3 It Ain't Hard to Tell 3:23
- 4 Life's a Bitch 3:30
- 5 N.Y. State of Mind 4:54
- 6 One Love 5:25
- 7 If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) 4:43
- 8 Street Dreams (remix) 4:28
- 9 Hate Me Now 4:45
- 10 One Mic 4:30
- 11 Got Ur Self a... 3:50
- 12 Made You Look 3:23
- 13 I Can 4:15
- 14 Bridging the Gap 3:57
- 15 Halftime 4:22
- 16 Nas Is Like 3:57
- 17 Thief's Theme 2:59
