Sold Date: June 30, 2024
Start Date: May 30, 2024
Final Price: £28.99 (GBP)
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Nas It Was Written Gold & Black Marbled Double Vinyl LP 

Side A:

1. Album Intro

2. The Message

3. Street Dreams

Side B:

4. I Gave You Power

5. Watch Dem Niggas

6. Take It in Blood

Side C:

7. Nas Is Coming

8. Affirmative Action

9. The Set Up

Side D:

10. Black Girl Lost

11. Suspect

12. Shootouts

13. Live Nigga Rap

In the pantheon of hip-hop, Nas stands as a luminary, his debut album "Illmatic" revered as a masterpiece. Following up such an iconic release was no small feat, yet with "It Was Written," Nas not only delivers but evolves, showcasing his storytelling prowess and lyrical dexterity in a different light.

Released in 1996, "It Was Written" sees Nas exploring themes of street life, ambition, and the complexities of success. The production, primarily handled by heavyweights like Dr. Dre, Trackmasters, and DJ Premier, is lush and cinematic, providing the perfect backdrop for Nas' vivid narratives.

The album kicks off with the cinematic "Album Intro," setting the stage for what's to come with its ominous tone and foreboding lyrics. Tracks like "The Message" and "Street Dreams" exemplify Nas' ability to paint vivid pictures of urban life, blending social commentary with personal reflection seamlessly.

"It Was Written" also showcases Nas' versatility. Tracks like "I Gave You Power," where he personifies a gun, demonstrate his storytelling prowess and willingness to tackle unconventional subject matter. Meanwhile, "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)" featuring Lauryn Hill, is a poignant reflection on the desire for a better world, infused with a sense of hopefulness.

While "It Was Written" may not possess the raw authenticity of "Illmatic," it stands on its own as a classic in its own right. Nas' lyrical prowess, combined with stellar production and memorable guest appearances, solidifies its place in hip-hop history.

In essence, "It Was Written" is a testament to Nas' evolution as an artist. It's an album that delves into the complexities of life, success, and ambition, showcasing Nas' ability to captivate listeners with his wordsmithery and storytelling prowess. If "Illmatic" was Nas' introduction to the world, "It Was Written" is his declaration that he's here to stay.