Nas is a foundational figure in East Coast hip-hop who emerged in the early 1990s with a distinctive lyrical style that has influenced generations of artists. Beginning his career under the moniker "Nasty Nas," he made his recording debut on Main Source's 1991 track "Live at the Barbeque," produced by Large Professor, establishing himself as a vital voice in the golden age of hip-hop production.
Throughout his career, Nas has collaborated with numerous producers and DJs who shaped the electronic and sample-based sound of hip-hop, working across various production styles from boom-bap to contemporary beats. His impact on hip-hop's sonic landscape and his collaborations with electronic music producers have made him a key reference point for understanding the intersection of rap and produced music across decades.
