Is It Was Written a good place to start with Nas?

Yes, It Was Written is recommended as a starting point for new Nas listeners. A cinematic blend of storytelling and rhythmic precision, navigating the complexities of street life with a reflective lens. Upon releasing It Was Written in July 1996, Nas was transitioning from the critical acclaim of his debut album, Illmatic, into mainstream success. This sophomore effort showcased his growth as an artist and solidified his place in hip-hop culture during a time when East Coast rap was rising in prominence.

Who is It Was Written for?

It Was Written works well if you're into cinematic storytelling experiences, reflective, introspective listening and layered narratives and themes.

How many songs are on It Was Written?

It Was Written has 15 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

It Was Written

Nas · 1996

62 min · 15 tracks · alternative hip-hop

A cinematic blend of storytelling and rhythmic precision, navigating the complexities of street life with a reflective lens.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Message Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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I Gave You Power — This track uniquely personifies a gun, exploring themes of violence and the cycle of crime through vivid storytelling, showcasing Nas's lyrical dexterity.
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If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) — Featuring Lauryn Hill, this track blends introspective lyrics with a catchy hook, addressing dreams of social change while appealing to a broader audience.
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Street Dreams — With its lush production and poignant lyrics, this song encapsulates the allure and pitfalls of street life, reflecting on ambition and morality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

It Was Written showcases strong storytelling and production, marking Nas's growth while maintaining distinctiveness in hip-hop.

What we noticed

Tracks like 'I Gave You Power' utilize storytelling from unique perspectives, while others like 'If I Ruled the World' incorporate more mainstream appeal through melodic hooks.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

cinematic storytelling experiences
reflective, introspective listening
layered narratives and themes
smooth, soulful background vibes
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked Nas's transition to mainstream success, debuting at number one.
Themes: street life complexities· gun violence personification· urban ambition and morality
Career context: Upon releasing It Was Written in July 1996, Nas was transitioning from the critical acclaim of his debut album, Illmatic, into mainstream success. This sophomore effort showcased his growth as an artist and solidified his place in hip-hop culture during a time when East Coast rap was rising in prominence.
Stylistic neighbors: Jay-Z· Rakim· The Notorious B.I.G.