Nas

Hip Hop Is Dead (2006)

Nasir “Nas” Jones, born in Queensbridge, New York, is one of hip-hop’s most influential lyricists. Known for his poetic storytelling and social consciousness, Nas rose to fame with Illmatic and became a defining voice of East Coast rap.

Hip Hop Is Dead marked his eighth studio album, released through Def Jam in 2006. The title became a bold statement on the state of rap music, calling for a revival of authenticity and artistry. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, featuring production by will.i.am, Kanye West, and Salaam Remi, with guest appearances from Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg.