Nas
It Was Written 2LP vinyl

Released in 1996, It Was Written is Nas’ sophomore album and the highly anticipated follow-up to his groundbreaking debut, Illmatic. This time, the Queensbridge rapper explores the world of mafioso rap, weaving vivid narratives of street life, gang conflicts, drug deals and underworld ambition. Featuring production from heavyweights such as Trackmasters, Dr. Dre, DJ Premier, Havoc of Mobb Deep and L.E.S., the album blends hip-hop with soul and jazz samples, creating a distinctive sonic atmosphere.

The record also features guest appearances from Lauryn Hill and Joel “JoJo” Hailey, while introducing The Firm, a short-lived supergroup led by Nas alongside AZ, Foxy Brown and Cormega. His collaboration with Dr. Dre sparked controversy amid the growing East Coast–West Coast hip-hop rivalry. Despite the debate, It Was Written received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and eventually earning four-times platinum certification. Alongside Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, the album played a major role in bringing mafioso rap into the mainstream.

NEW /  Released in 1996 / Reissued in 2026

Tracklist:

A1 Album Intro
A2 The Message
A3 Steet Dreams
B1 I Gave You Power
B2 Watch dem Niggas
B3 Take It In Blood
B4 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)