Nas talks New York Anthems
Nas Reflects on New York’s Legacy in Hip Hop
New York City has always been the birthplace and the cultural cornerstone of hip hop. For decades, the city produced legends whose lyrical tales defined an era. Among those legends stands Nas, whose debut album Illmatic and its iconic track “NY State of Mind” gave New Yorkers a gritty, poetic lens through which to view their city. Now, Nas is showing respect to another track that celebrates the Empire State: Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind.”
In a recent interview, Nas opened up about the impact of Jay-Z’s chart-topping anthem and what it means for the culture of New York hip hop. According to Nas, the track isn’t just a hit; it’s a vital statement in a time when many critics are questioning the city’s relevance in modern rap.
Nas Salutes Jay-Z’s Anthem for NYC
“It’s just keeping that whole thing alive — this New York thing,” Nas explained to The Wall Street Journal. He understands the importance of the city having modern-day anthems that represent its energy, ambition, and struggle. “There are a lot of people complaining about New York hip-hop, about it not being what it was, and [Jay-Z] stood up and now we have another anthem to be proud of.”
His words reflect not only admiration for the song’s success but also a recognition of its necessity. In an era when Southern and West Coast artists dominate the charts, a hometown anthem that reaches the top of Billboard is a cultural win for New York.
Not only did Jay-Z provide this, but he got a NYC vocalist in Alicia Keys to share the stage with him. Nas gives this his ultimate respect.
The Evolution of New York Anthems
Nas himself helped lay the groundwork for these anthems. When he released “NY State of Mind” in 1994, the song became an instant classic. With DJ Premier’s haunting instrumental and Nas’ vivid storytelling, the song transported listeners to the heart of Queensbridge. It was a street-level view of New York, one that became a benchmark for authenticity.
Years later, Ja Rule’s 2004 single “New York” added a new layer. Featuring Fat Joe and Jadakiss, it was a moment of unity in an increasingly fragmented New York rap scene. The track received heavy rotation and even managed to unite hip hop fans across boroughs.
“Empire State of Mind” takes a different approach. It’s cinematic, uplifting, and has crossover appeal. With Alicia Keys’ soaring vocals and Jay-Z’s slick rhymes, the track blends street realism with polished production. It doesn’t just speak to those from the city—it welcomes the entire world to its skyline.
Was Nas Supposed to Be on the Track?
When Jay-Z first began talking about the track, many expected Nas to feature on it. The title itself seemed to be a nod to Nas’ own classic. Rumors circulated that Jay-Z wanted to bring Nas in to help construct a new anthem together. However, when the final version was released, Alicia Keys was the lone feature.
Nas addressed this in his interview, clarifying that he and Jay-Z made a creative decision to take the song in another direction. He holds no grudges and sees the song’s massive success as a positive for the entire city. “Of course, I’m always gonna talk about New York — it’s the greatest city in the world. But I’m not in the studio making a New York record now to one up anybody, no.”
The Rumored Remix and What Could Have Been
There was buzz about a potential remix to “Empire State of Mind” that would feature Nas along with a host of other iconic New York rappers, namely 50 Cent. Former Roc-A-Fella artist Beanie Sigel even hinted at the idea, suggesting it could stir lyrical competition.
“He’s poppin’ shots at me, poppin’ shots at 50 but he pulled Nas on the record hoping that a n*gga will respond,” Sigel said in a past interview.
While the remix never materialized, the idea showed just how powerful the track had become. It wasn’t just another hit single; it was seen as a platform to bring New York’s elite together. Even West Coast rapper Game acknowledged the song’s presence, noting its dominance on L.A. radio despite it being a New York anthem.
Billboard Success and Cultural Impact
“Empire State of Mind” didn’t just impress critics; it made history. The track became Jay-Z’s first number-one single as a lead artist on the Billboard Hot 100. It soared to the top of the charts and held that spot, earning heavy radio play and cultural resonance.
It also took the top spot on the Radio Songs chart, marking the largest jump to No. 1 since Kanye West’s “Stronger.” The track’s success reaffirmed Jay-Z’s relevance and solidified the anthem as a defining song for a new generation of hip hop fans.
Nas Sees the Bigger Picture
Despite his reputation as a lyricist who thrives on competition, Nas isn’t looking to outdo anyone with a rival anthem. Instead, he embraces the fact that New York hip hop is being celebrated.
This is a far cry from the earlier 2000s when regional tensions and label rivalries dominated headlines. Nas’ maturity shows in how he views the bigger picture—hip hop as a whole benefits when New York has a voice at the top of the charts.
“I think [Jay-Z] pretty much handled it,” Nas reiterates. It’s a simple statement but one loaded with respect. It acknowledges Jay-Z’s role in reminding the world that New York is still a cultural force.
Final Thoughts
Nas may not be featured on “Empire State of Mind,” but his stamp of approval elevates the track even further. For someone who authored one of the most revered New York anthems in hip hop history, giving Jay-Z’s latest tribute the co-sign speaks volumes.
In a genre built on competition, sometimes unity speaks louder. Nas’ recognition of “Empire State of Mind” as potentially the greatest New York anthem of all time highlights his understanding of legacy, culture, and the power of music to bring people together.
And with Jay-Z, Nas, and countless others still shaping the soundscape, New York continues to write its hip hop story—one anthem at a time.