Nas - Illmatic [Black Vinyl LP]

Nas - Illmatic

Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, Nas’ Illmatic is a masterclass in lyricism, storytelling, and urban realism. Released in 1994 when Nas was just 20 years old, the album marked a seismic shift in the genre with its introspective themes, vivid narratives, and immaculate production.

This black vinyl edition brings Illmatic to life in warm analog sound, preserving the gritty texture and jazz-infused beats that defined the golden era of East Coast hip-hop. The album features production from a legendary roster including DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Large Professor, Q-Tip, and L.E.S., creating a sonically rich backdrop for Nas’s poetic reflections on life in Queensbridge, New York.

Tracklist Highlights:

• "N.Y. State of Mind" – A brooding street anthem with vivid imagery and haunting production by DJ Premier.
• "Life’s a Bitch" (Feat. AZ) – A reflective track that blends fatalism with jazzy optimism, featuring a standout verse from AZ and trumpet outro by Nas’s father, Olu Dara.
• "The World Is Yours" – Produced by Pete Rock, this timeless anthem blends aspiration with melancholy, delivering one of the most quotable hooks in hip-hop history.
• "It Ain’t Hard to Tell" – The perfect closing statement, showcasing Nas’s wordplay over a brilliant Michael Jackson sample.

Details:

• Format: 1x LP
• Vinyl: Standard-weight Black Vinyl
• Packaging: Classic album artwork, standard jacket
• Genre: Hip-Hop / Rap
• Originally released: April 19, 1994
• Label: Columbia Records

Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering Illmatic for the first time, this vinyl edition is a vital addition to any music collection — a raw, honest snapshot of New York street life that remains as relevant today as it was three decades ago.

* The Spotify track list may not exactly represent the tracks and audio of this LP edition.

Track List:

Side A:

1. The Genesis
2. N.Y. State Of Mind
3. Life's A Bitch
4. The World Is Yours
5. Halftime

Side B:

1. Memory Lane (Sittin' In Da Park)
2. One Love
3. One Time 4 Your Mind
4. Represent
5. It Ain't Hard To Tell