Nas’ It Was Written at 25: A Retrospective Look Back
Introduction
It has been 25 years since Nas dropped his sophomore album, “It Was Written,” in 1996. The follow-up to his groundbreaking debut, “Illmatic,” this album marked a shift in Nas’ style and sound. While “Illmatic” was hailed as a classic and is often considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, “It Was Written” took a different approach, incorporating more commercial elements and embracing a more mainstream sound.
The Sound of Progression
With “It Was Written,” Nas moved away from the gritty, street-oriented style of “Illmatic” and embraced a more polished, radio-friendly sound. The production on the album was more lush and cinematic, with tracks like “The Message” and “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” featuring catchy hooks and melodic beats. Nas also experimented with different styles and flows, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
The Controversy
“It Was Written” was not without its controversy. Many fans and critics felt that Nas had sold out by moving away from his raw, lyrical style on “Illmatic” in favor of a more commercial sound. Some accused him of chasing radio hits and pandering to a wider audience. However, Nas defended his artistic choices, stating that he wanted to reach a broader audience and showcase his growth as an artist.
The Legacy
Despite the initial backlash, “It Was Written” went on to become a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and selling over a million copies in its first month. The album produced several hit singles, including “Street Dreams” and “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That),” which helped cement Nas’ status as a mainstream hip-hop artist.
Looking Back
Now, 25 years later, “It Was Written” is seen as a classic in its own right. While it may not have the same raw, underground appeal as “Illmatic,” it showcased Nas’ growth and evolution as an artist. The album’s lush production, catchy hooks, and introspective lyrics all contributed to its lasting impact on the hip-hop landscape.
The Message
One of the standout tracks on “It Was Written” is “The Message,” a collaboration with producer Dr. Dre. The song features a haunting piano loop and introspective lyrics from Nas, reflecting on his struggles and triumphs in the rap game. “The Message” has since become a fan favorite and is considered one of Nas’ best songs.
Conclusion
As we celebrate 25 years of Nas’ “It Was Written,” it is clear that the album has stood the test of time. While it may not have the same critical acclaim as “Illmatic,” it remains a fan favorite and a pivotal moment in Nas’ career. The album’s lush production, catchy hooks, and introspective lyrics all contribute to its enduring legacy in hip-hop history. “It Was Written” may have been a departure from Nas’ gritty, underground roots, but it showcased his growth as an artist and solidified his status as one of the greatest MCs of all time.
