How Hit-Boy Revived Nas’ Career with ‘King’s Disease’
When Nas dropped his latest album, ‘King’s Disease,’ in August 2020, fans and critics alike were blown away by the album’s quality and impact. One man who played a crucial role in the success of the album was producer Hit-Boy. With his stellar production work on ‘King’s Disease,’ Hit-Boy not only revived Nas’ career but also solidified his own status as one of the top producers in the game.
The Genesis of ‘King’s Disease’
Before ‘King’s Disease,’ Nas’ career was at a bit of a crossroads. While he is widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, his recent output had not been up to par with his classic albums like ‘Illmatic’ and ‘It Was Written.’ Fans were yearning for a return to form from the legendary hip-hop artist, and ‘King’s Disease’ delivered just that.
The album came together in large part due to the collaboration between Nas and Hit-Boy. The two had worked together before on tracks like “Ultra Black” from Nas’ previous album ‘The Lost Tapes 2,’ and their chemistry in the studio was undeniable. Hit-Boy’s unique production style, which blends classic boom-bap beats with more modern sounds, was the perfect backdrop for Nas’ introspective lyricism and storytelling.
Hit-Boy’s Contribution
Hit-Boy’s production on ‘King’s Disease’ is nothing short of stellar. From the soulful sample on the opening track “King’s Disease” to the hard-hitting drums on “Car #85,” Hit-Boy crafted a sound that perfectly complemented Nas’ lyrical prowess. Tracks like “Blue Benz” and “27 Summers” showcase Hit-Boy’s ability to create dynamic beats that keep listeners engaged from start to finish.
One of the standout tracks on the album, “Ultra Black,” is a perfect example of Hit-Boy’s production prowess. The track features a catchy sample of the classic 1970s song “Gettin’ In The Way” by Jill Scott, layered over a driving drum beat that gives the track an infectious energy. The production on “Ultra Black” sets the perfect stage for Nas to deliver fiery verses that address issues of Black empowerment and cultural pride.
The Impact of ‘King’s Disease’
The success of ‘King’s Disease’ cannot be overstated. The album debuted at number 5 on the Billboard 200 chart, making it Nas’ highest-charting album in over a decade. Critics hailed the album as a return to form for Nas, praising his lyricism and storytelling as some of the best of his career. Hit-Boy’s production on the album was also widely praised, with many calling it some of the best work of his career as well.
In addition to its commercial success, ‘King’s Disease’ also had a profound impact on Nas’ legacy. The album solidified his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time, and proved that he still had plenty of gas left in the tank. The critical and fan response to the album was overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it one of the best hip-hop albums of 2020.
The Future of Nas and Hit-Boy
With the success of ‘King’s Disease,’ both Nas and Hit-Boy have solidified their places in the hip-hop pantheon. Nas is once again being hailed as one of the greatest rappers of all time, while Hit-Boy is being recognized as one of the top producers in the game. The two have hinted at future collaborations, and fans are eagerly anticipating what they will come up with next.
In conclusion, ‘King’s Disease’ was a game-changer for Nas and Hit-Boy. The album showcased the best of both artists’ talents and brought them together in a collaboration that was nothing short of magic. With its stellar production and top-notch lyricism, ‘King’s Disease’ proved that Nas still has plenty to say and that Hit-Boy is a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop production. Here’s to more collaborations and more hits from this dynamic duo in the future.
