Illmatic – Nas (Vinyl 12" LP)
Released in 1994, Illmatic is the groundbreaking debut album from Nas, widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop records of all time. Hailing from Queensbridge, New York, Nas delivered a cinematic and lyrically rich portrayal of urban life with unmatched precision and maturity. The album features production from an all-star roster including DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Q-Tip, Large Professor, and L.E.S., creating a timeless boom-bap soundscape that defined 1990s East Coast hip-hop.
Key Highlights
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Includes legendary tracks like N.Y. State of Mind, The World Is Yours, and It Ain’t Hard to Tell
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Celebrated for its poetic lyricism, vivid storytelling, and sophisticated rhyme schemes
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A cornerstone of East Coast hip-hop with production from some of the genre’s most influential figures
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Often reissued on heavyweight vinyl, including anniversary editions with remastered audio
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Frequently cited as one of the most important debut albums in hip-hop history
Tracklisting
Side A
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The Genesis
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N.Y. State of Mind
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Life's a B****
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The World Is Yours
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Halftime
Side B
6. Memory Lane (Sittin' in da Park)
7. One Love
8. One Time 4 Your Mind
9. Represent
10. It Ain’t Hard to Tell
Fun Fact
Nas was just 20 years old when Illmatic was released, yet his lyrical depth and technical prowess led critics to immediately place him among the greatest MCs of all time.
Why You Should Buy This Vinyl
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Essential listening for fans of hip-hop, poetry, and social commentary
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A pivotal release that shaped the sound and standard of 1990s rap music
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Vinyl format enhances the warmth and texture of its classic boom-bap production
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A cultural touchstone that belongs in every serious vinyl collection
Illmatic is more than an album—it’s a cultural artefact. On vinyl, its raw energy and lyrical brilliance are experienced in full depth, making it a must-have for collectors and hip-hop purists alike.