Released in 1996 on Columbia Records, It Was Written stands as Nas's highly anticipated follow-up to his celebrated debut, Illmatic. Leaning into a more polished and commercially ambitious sound largely crafted by the Trackmasters production duo, the album marked a bold evolution for one of hip-hop's most gifted lyricists. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, cementing Nas as a dominant force in mid-90s rap.
Across the album, Nas weaves intricate street narratives and vivid character studies with the precision of a seasoned storyteller, blending Mafioso-influenced themes with sharp social commentary. Standout moments like "I Gave You Power" showcase his rare ability to adopt unconventional perspectives and deliver them with cinematic depth. With notable guest appearances and production that set the tone for East Coast hip-hop's mainstream crossover, It Was Written remains a landmark entry in Nas's catalog and in 90s hip-hop as a whole.
- Format: Vinyl
- Label: Columbia
- Genre: Hip-Hop
- Release Date: 08/21/2026
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TRACKS
A1. Album Intro
A2. The Message
A3. Street Dreams
A4. I Gave You Power
B1. Watch Dem Niggas
B2. Take It In Blood
B3. The Set Up
C1. Black Girl Lost
C2. Suspect
C3. Shootouts
C4. Nas Is Coming
D1. Affirmative Action
D2. Live Nigga Rap
D3. If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)
D4. Silent Murder
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