I Am... cover

I Am...

Nas · 1999

64 min · 16 tracks · alternative hip-hop · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop

A rich tapestry of lyrical introspection woven with lush, soulful beats and sharp storytelling.

Why listen to this

Best for
lyrical introspection and storytelling steady pacing for focused listening rich beats for reflective moments
Context
Released on April 6, 1999, 'I Am...' was Nas's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed 'It Was Written.' This album marked a period of increased commercial visibility for Nas as he navigated the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity while achieving mainstream success.
If you like
alternative hip-hop, gangsta rap, hardcore hip-hop

I Am... is an album by Nas, released in 1999. A rich tapestry of lyrical introspection woven with lush, soulful beats and sharp storytelling. 'I Am...' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified double platinum, showcasing Nas's mainstream appeal. The album also sparked significant discussion around its themes of identity and societal issues, influencing the direction of East Coast hip-hop in the late '90s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does I Am... sound like?

A rich tapestry of lyrical introspection woven with lush, soulful beats and sharp storytelling. Rooted in alternative hip-hop and gangsta rap.

What makes I Am... by Nas notable?

'I Am...' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified double platinum, showcasing Nas's mainstream appeal. The album also sparked significant discussion around its themes of identity and societal issues, influencing the direction of East Coast hip-hop in the late '90s. Released on April 6, 1999, 'I Am...' was Nas's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed 'It Was Written.' This album marked a period of increased commercial visibility for Nas as he navigated the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity while achieving mainstream success.

Who is I Am... for?

I Am... works well if you're into lyrical introspection and storytelling, steady pacing for focused listening and rich beats for reflective moments.

How many songs are on I Am...?

I Am... has 16 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.

Tracklist

16 tracks·64:53

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Album Intro 2:51
  • 2 N.Y. State of Mind, Part II Standout 3:36
  • 3 Hate Me Now Standout 4:44
  • 4 Small World 4:45
  • 5 Favor for a Favor 4:07
  • 6 We Will Survive 5:00
  • 7 Ghetto Prisoners 4:00
  • 8 You Won’t See Me Tonight 4:22
  • 9 I Want to Talk to You 4:36
  • 10 Dr. Knockboot 2:25
  • 11 Life Is What You Make It 4:04
  • 12 Big Things 3:39
  • 13 Nas Is Like Standout 3:57
  • 14 K‐I‐SS‐I‐N‐G 4:15
  • 15 Money Is My Bitch 4:02
  • 16 Undying Love 4:24

Release Date

April 6, 1999

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

64 min 53 sec