Nas' sophomore album, It Was Written, released on 2 July 1996 via Columbia Records, marked a significant shift in the American rapper's sound. Following the modest commercial success of his debut album Illmatic in 1994, Nas pursued a more polished and mainstream aesthetic for It Was Written. Produced largely by Trackmasters, the album departed from the raw, underground vibe of his debut and embraced mafioso and gangsta themes.
This 58-minute, 14-track album features a star-studded lineup, including collaborations with Foxy Brown, Dr. Dre, AZ, Cormega, Havoc, JoJo Hailey, Mobb Deep, and Lauryn Hill. The tracklist boasts notable hits, such as "The Message", "Street Dreams", and "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)". With its east coast hip hop and hip hop genres, It Was Written showcases Nas' storytelling ability and lyrical prowess.
The album's commercial success was undeniable, as it officially went RIAA Double-Platinum on 6 September 1996, with over 2 million album units sold. It Was Written cemented Nas' position as a rising star in the hip hop scene, with his alter ego "Nas Escobar" making a notable appearance. This album is a testament to Nas' growth as an artist and his ability to craft a cohesive, engaging, and memorable listening experience. With It Was Written, Nas proved that he was worthy of the acclaim surrounding his debut, and this album remains a standout in his discography.
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