Nas Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Diving into the discography of a legend like Nas is a massive undertaking. His catalog isn't just a collection of albums; it's a chronicle of hip-hop's evolution, told by one of its greatest poets.
The question of which record is the "best Nas album" can start a debate that lasts for hours. That's why we're approaching the Nas albums ranked list a bit differently.
We're letting the fans lead. This ranking is primarily driven by community sentiment and the passionate discussions that surround each release. It offers a unique look into which albums have resonated most deeply over time. Let's begin.
Ranking Nas's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. Illmatic (1994)
Nas's 1994 debut, Illmatic, is a landmark album in East Coast hip-hop. Recorded when he was a teenager, it's a raw and poetic snapshot of life in the Queensbridge Houses.
With production from a dream team including DJ Premier, Large Professor, and Pete Rock, the album features intricate rhymes and vivid inner-city narratives.
Though its initial sales were modest, Illmatic received universal acclaim and is now widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. It was even selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry.
Key tracks:
- N.Y. State of Mind
- The World Is Yours
Considered by many to be a perfect album, Illmatic's position at number one is not a suprise. Instead, it highlights the incredible depth of Nas's discography.
For fans, its legendary status is undisputed. The fact that another album could edge it out in a fan poll simply proves how many different peaks this artist has climbed.
2. It Was Written (1996)
Following his debut, Nas pursued a more polished, mainstream sound for his second album, It Was Written. Released in 1996, it embraced a mafioso rap theme.
Produced largely by Trackmasters, the album was a massive commercial success, debuting at number one and becoming Nas's best-selling album to date.
However, the shift in sound led to accusations of "selling out" from some corners of the hip-hop community, sparking a debate that continues to this day.
Key tracks:
- If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (feat. Lauryn Hill)
- The Message
Placing second, It Was Written represents a crucial turning point. Fans remain divided, but its high ranking proves that many embrace the cinematic scope and ambitious storytelling of the "Nas Escobar" persona.
This album brought Nas to a global stage, and for a huge portion of his fanbase, this was their introduction to a legend. That connection is powerful and undeniable.
3. Stillmatic (2001)
Released in 2001, Stillmatic marked a significant comeback for Nas. It was seen as a return to the socially conscious and philosophical themes of his debut.
The album was a critical and commercial success, re-establishing his career after the mixed reception of his previous work. It notably contains "Ether," his famous response in the feud with Jay-Z.
Stillmatic addresses topics like ghetto life and American politics, helping to cement Nas's status as a premier lyricist.
Key tracks:
- Ether
- Got Ur Self A Gun
There's a reason fans hold Stillmatic in such high regard. It's an album fueled by righteous anger and a desire to reclaim a legacy.
The hunger is palpable in every bar. For listeners who felt Nas had lost his way, this record was a triumphant and necessary return to form, and its energy remains infectious.
4. Magic (2021)
Released as a surprise on Christmas Eve 2021, Magic is the fourteenth studio album from Nas. It continued his fruitful collaboration with producer Hit-Boy.
The album serves as the third consecutive project produced by Hit-Boy, following the King's Disease series. It features guest appearances from ASAP Rocky and DJ Premier.
Magic was widely acclaimed, with many critics and fans feeling it captured a raw, spontaneous energy reminiscent of his earlier work.
Key tracks:
- Wave Gods
- Speechless
The creative renaissance Nas experienced with Hit-Boy is no more apparent than on Magic. This album's high fan ranking is a direct result of its focused, potent energy.
It felt less like a planned legacy project and more like a master at work, simply doing what he does best. That authenticity earned it a special place in the hearts of modern fans.
5. Life Is Good (2012)
Nas's tenth studio album, Life Is Good, arrived in 2012. It was a deeply personal and mature project, written in the aftermath of his public divorce from singer Kelis.
The album cover, featuring Nas with his ex-wife's green wedding dress, became iconic. Producers No I.D. and Salaam Remi incorporated orchestral and old-school hip-hop elements to complement the nostalgic and adult themes.
It received widespread critical acclaim and debuted at number one, praised for its vulnerability and lyrical depth.
Key tracks:
- Cherry Wine
- Daughters
Life Is Good connects with fans on a profoundly human level. It's a raw, emotional, and refreshingly honest look at adulthood, love, and loss.
Listeners who have grown up with Nas found a powerful reflection of their own lives in this album, securing its status as a mature masterpiece in his catalog.
6. Nastradamus (1999)
Released in 1999, Nastradamus was Nas's fourth studio album and his second release of that year. It followed the ambitious but compromised I Am... project.
The album was originally intended to include material from the leaked I Am... sessions. However, Nas opted to record new material, resulting in a project created under pressure.
Despite debuting in the top 10 and being certified Platinum, Nastradamus received generally mixed reviews and is often regarded by critics as one of his weaker efforts.
Key tracks:
- You Owe Me (feat. Ginuwine)
- Shoot 'em Up
Often viewed as a low point by critics, Nastradamus still has its staunch defenders among the fanbase, landing it in a respectable spot.
For these listeners, the album's Y2K-era production and hit singles are a source of nostalgia. They argue that beneath the commercial sheen, Nas's lyrical prowess remains evident.
7. Nas (2008)
Released in 2008, Nas's ninth studio album is often referred to as Untitled due to the immense controversy surrounding its original title.
The album is distinguished by its deeply political content, provocative subject matter, and diverse production. It features guest appearances from artists like Chris Brown, Keri Hilson, and Busta Rhymes.
Despite the controversy, the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and received generally positive reviews from critics, solidifying its place as a powerful statement piece in his career.
Key tracks:
- Hero
- Untitled
Nas as album speaks volumes about Nas's core audience. It is an album for the thinkers and the rebels.
Its unapologetic political stance and the sheer courage to tackle difficult subjects resonate deeply with listeners who value substance and bravery over everything else. This isn't just music; it's a defiant moment in time.
8. Hip Hop Is Dead (2007)
Released on December 19, 2006, Hip Hop Is Dead was Nas's eighth studio album and his debut on the Def Jam label. It followed 2004's Street's Disciple.
The album's provocative title was intended by Nas to critique the perceived decline in hip-hop's quality and artistic power, sparking considerable debate within the genre. Nas aimed to create a project that was both a statement and a call to action.
Despite the controversy, Hip Hop Is Dead debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, was certified Gold, and received generally positive reviews, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.
Key tracks:
- Still Dreaming
- Hip Hop Is Dead
The provocative title alone ensures this album is always part of the conversation. Fans who rank Hip Hop Is Dead highly appreciate its bold concept and the debate it sparked.
It was seen as a veteran MC taking a stand for the culture's integrity, a move that earned him significant respect from a loyal segment of his audience.
9. NASIR (2018)
Released in 2018, NASIR was Nas's eleventh studio album and his first in six years. The entire project was produced by Kanye West as part of his "Wyoming Sessions."
The album is composed of seven tracks and features guest appearances from Kanye West, Puff Daddy, and The-Dream, among others.
The collaboration between two titans of music generated immense hype. The album debuted in the top 5 of the Billboard 200, but ultimately received mixed reviews from critics and fans.
Key tracks:
- Adam and Eve
- Cops Shot The Kid
NASIR is a polarizing entry in Nas's discography. Fans who champion the album are often drawn to Kanye West's cinematic, sample-heavy production.
They see it as a potent, if brief, artistic statement. However, its lower ranking reflects a common sentiment that the collaboration, while exciting, didn't fully allow Nas's lyrical depth to shine through as it could have.
10. Distant Relatives (2010)
Distant Relatives is a collaborative studio album between Nas and reggae artist Damian Marley, released in 2010.
The album fuses hip hop and reggae, with lyrical themes focusing on ancestry, poverty, and Pan-Africanism. It was primarily produced by Damian and his brother, Stephen Marley.
The project received positive reviews for its ambitious concept and musical fusion, debuting at number five on the Billboard 200 chart.
Key tracks:
- Patience
- As We Enter
This album holds a special place for fans who appreciate musical and cultural fusion. The chemistry between Nas and Damian Marley is the project's biggest strength.
Its thoughtful, conscious message provides a different kind of nourishment than a typical solo album, making it a beloved and unique detour in his catalog.
11. King's Disease (2020)
Released in 2020, King's Disease marked the beginning of a prolific partnership with producer Hit-Boy. It was seen as a significant return to form for Nas.
The album features a host of guests, including Charlie Wilson, Big Sean, and a reunion of The Firm. It blends modern sounds with Nas's classic lyrical style.
King's Disease received positive reviews and won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, a long-awaited first for the veteran artist.
Key tracks:
- Spicy (feat. Fivio Foreign & A$AP Ferg)
- Replace Me (feat. Big Sean & Don Toliver)
Winning Nas his first Grammy, King's Disease was a monumental album. For fans, it was the start of an exciting new chapter.
The collaboration with Hit-Boy felt fresh and invigorating. It proved that Nas could not only compete with the current generation but elevate the sound, a fact that earned it immense appreciation.
12. God's Son (2002)
Nas's sixth studio album, God's Son, was released in 2002. It is one of his most personal and introspective works, heavily inspired by the death of his mother earlier that year.
The album blends hardcore hip hop with soul and jazz elements, featuring production from Salaam Remi, Eminem, and The Alchemist. It also includes a posthumous feature from 2Pac.
Covering themes of grief, religion, and redemption, God's Son was critically acclaimed for its lyrical vulnerability and emotional depth.
Key tracks:
- Get Down
- I Can
God's Son is an album defined by its vulnerability. Listeners connect with the raw emotion on display, as Nas navigates grief and legacy with incredible lyrical skill.
Tracks like "I Can" became anthems, but it's the album's somber, reflective core that gives it lasting power among his dedicated fanbase.
14. King's Disease II (2021)
Serving as the sequel to his Grammy-winning album, King's Disease II was released in 2021. It continued the successful partnership between Nas and producer Hit-Boy.
The album features an impressive list of guests, including Eminem, EPMD, and a standout appearance by Lauryn Hill.
It received widespread acclaim from critics, who praised its cohesive production and sharp storytelling, with many considering it an improvement over its predecessor.
Key tracks:
- Nobody (feat. Ms. Lauryn Hill)
- EPMD 2 (feat. Eminem & EPMD)
Many fans feel King's Disease II perfected the formula started on the first installment. It felt bigger, more confident, and featured legendary collaborations.
The Lauryn Hill feature alone was a historic moment. This sequel demonstrated that the creative fire between Nas and Hit-Boy was not a fluke but a genuine artistic force.
15. Magic 3 (2023)
Released on his 50th birthday in 2023, Magic 3 served as the final installment in the Magic series and the finale of his six-album run with producer Hit-Boy.
The album was praised for its consistency and lyrical sharpness, bringing a celebrated chapter of Nas's career to a satisfying close. It features a sole guest appearance from Lil Wayne.
Critically, it received widespread acclaim, capping one of the most prolific and high-quality streaks in hip-hop history.
Key tracks:
- Never Die (feat. Lil Wayne)
- I Love This Feeling
As the closing statement of an incredible run, Magic 3 is appreciated by fans for its victory-lap feel. It's the sound of a master confidently showcasing his craft.
While part of a larger series, it stands strong on its own, and its placement reflects the immense respect fans have for this stunningly productive era.
16. Magic 2 (2023)
Magic 2 is the sixteenth studio album by Nas, released in July 2023. It serves as the sequel to his 2021 album Magic.
The album is the fifth consecutive project produced entirely by Hit-Boy, showcasing the deep creative bond between the rapper and producer.
It features notable guest appearances from 50 Cent and 21 Savage, bridging generational gaps within hip-hop.
Key tracks:
- One Mic, One Gun
- Office Hours (feat. 50 Cent)
While part of an acclaimed series, Magic 2's ranking suggests it might be seen by some fans as the slightest of the Hit-Boy collaborations.
Even so, its placement here is a testament to the incredible standard set during this era. An album with highlights like the 50 Cent feature is still a major win in a legendary career.
17. Street's Disciple (2004)
Street's Disciple is the seventh studio album by Nas, released as an ambitious double album in 2004. It marked his final project with Columbia Records.
The album cover is a recreation of The Last Supper. The project tackles socio-political themes and personal milestones, including his marriage to Kelis.
Despite receiving positive reviews and being certified platinum, the album's length and lack of a major hit single have made it a dense listen for some.
Key tracks:
- Just a Moment (feat. Quan)
- Thief's Theme
A sprawling double album is always a bold move. Fans who connect with Street's Disciple admire its ambition and the sheer breadth of topics Nas covers.
However, its lower ranking suggests that for many, the project feels bloated. The consensus is often that a stronger, single-disc album exists within its 25 tracks.
19. I Am... (1999)
Nas's third studio album, released in 1999, was originally conceived as a sprawling double album titled I Am...The Autobiography.
However, a significant leak of the material online forced Nas to scrap the original concept and release a single disc with newly recorded tracks.
Despite the setback, the album debuted at number one, selling over 470,000 copies in its first week. It features hits like "Nas Is Like" and "Hate Me Now."
Key tracks:
- Nas Is Like
- Hate Me Now (feat. Diddy)
I Am... will forever be the album of "what if?" Fans know the story of the infamous leak and the autobiographical masterpiece that could have been.
While the final version has undeniable classics, its ranking reflects the feeling that it's a compromised vision. The legendary status of the unreleased material (later found on The Lost Tapes) overshadows the official release.
20. King's Disease III (2023)
The third entry in the King's Disease series, this 2022 album was released to widespread critical acclaim. It continued the celebrated partnership with producer Hit-Boy.
Notably, the album contains no guest features, allowing Nas's lyricism to take center stage. It was praised as a masterful and focused conclusion to the trilogy.
The album was nominated for Best Rap Album at the Grammy Awards, marking another high point in Nas's late-career resurgence.
Key tracks:
- Michael & Quincy
- Legit
The low fan ranking for King's Disease III is one of the biggest surprises on this list, especially given its universal critical acclaim.
This may simply be a case of newer material not having had the time to build the same nostalgic connection as the classics. It's a lyrical showcase that fans may come to appreciate even more over time.
Picked your top Nas classic? Check out Nas's discography on their Roll The Record Artist hub.
Nas albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.
Below is a ranking of Nas's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Illmatic | 1994 |
| 2 | It Was Written | 1996 |
| 3 | God's Son | 2002 |
| 4 | I Am... | 1999 |
| 5 | Hip Hop Is Dead | 2007 |
| 6 | Stillmatic | 2001 |
| 7 | Distant Relatives | 2010 |
| 8 | The Lost Tapes | 2002 |
| 9 | King's Disease II | 2021 |
| 10 | King's Disease | 2020 |
| 11 | Illmatic XX | 2014 |
| 12 | King's Disease III | 2023 |
| 13 | Nastradamus | 1999 |
| 14 | Magic | 2021 |
| 15 | Magic 3 | 2023 |
| 16 | NASIR | 2018 |
| 17 | Life Is Good | 2012 |
| 18 | Magic 2 | 2023 |
| 19 | Street's Disciple | 2004 |
| 20 | The Lost Tapes 2 | 2019 |
| 21 | Nas | 2008 |
| 22 | Illmatic: Live from the Kennedy Center with the National Symphony Orchestra | 2018 |
| 23 | Made You Look: God's Son Live 2002 | 2022 |
| 24 | QB 2 Compton Ringtones | 2003 |
Quick FAQs about Nas's albums
Q: Why was Nas's 2008 album released without a title?
A: The album was originally going to be titled Nigger, but this caused significant controversy and pushback. Nas ultimately decided to release it as an untitled project, stating that "the people will always know what the real title of this album is and what to call it."
Q: What is widely considered the best Nas album?
A: His 1994 debut, Illmatic, is almost universally cited by critics and the general public as his best album and one of the greatest hip-hop records ever made.
So there it is. Our deep dive into Nas's albums ranked by the fans who know them best.
It's clear that from politically charged statements to timeless classics, his catalog offers something for every kind of listener.
Ultimately, the "best" Nas album is a personal choice. It's the one that spoke to you at the right time. But we want to know what you think.
What does your ranking look like? Did the fans get it right?