It Was Written: The Story Behind A Classic

Nas is regarded as one of the best rappers of all time for his works throughout the years. One such work is Illmatic which is widely considered to be one of the best rap albums of all time. Though Illmatic wasn’t an instant success it grew with popularity over time and Nas was hailed as a genius.

But how does someone follow up one of the greatest rap albums of all time. The pressure was immense especially with Nas having to deal with crossing over to make more radio friendly music while also still be appealing to the streets. This pressure would lead to Nas’ most successful album to date which is It Was Written.

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Link to videos used:

(Nas Interview in 1996)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XzBd0vowlM&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=1&t=36s

(Nas - in Queensbridge / talks Street Dreams | 1996)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5rRht8FSnw&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=2

(NaS Illmatic interview 94)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ag9woFOXDw&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=4

(Nas at the Fever performance and interview 1994)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9SybJPL-xE&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=6

(Nas - "ILLMATIC" Album Release Press Kit (1994))
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVecv1O4nrM&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=7


Link to music used:

(Nas - The Message Instrumental | Syko Beats Remake | Rap / Hip-Hop Beat | Sting Guitar Sample)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtL2QYVTHy4&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=12

(Nas - The World Is Yours Instrumental Audio but slower tempo)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHZvFFtMSRI&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=11

(Nas "I Gave You Power" Instrumental)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=af8_ks83bKk


#nas #laurynhill #mobbdeep


(Firm Interview Nas, Foxy, AZ & Nature in 1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDrwZ0hI4TU&list=PLfDEkr6r1oCBdKAG9zJQ1bLNaFG7RgIGO&index=8

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