Nas's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Nas. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, is a highly acclaimed American rapper and entrepreneur, considered one of hip-hop's greatest. Emerging from the East Coast hip-hop scene, he began his career in 1989 as "Nasty Nas," mentored by Large Professor. His debut came on Main Source's "Live at the Barbeque" in 1991, marking the start of his influential journey.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

April 19, 1994: Release of Illmatic

On April 19, 1994, Nas released his debut studio album, Illmatic, which later became part of the Library of Congress's National Recording Registry.

1994: Illmatic Awarded Best Album

In 1994, Illmatic was awarded best album of the year by The Source, receiving critical acclaim for its lyrics and evocation of ghetto life.

September 2002: Release of The Lost Tapes

In September 2002, The Lost Tapes, a compilation of previously unreleased songs from 1998 to 2001, was released by Columbia Records. The collection achieved respectable sales and received rave reviews from critics. Also in 2002, Eminem cited both Nas and Jay-Z as being two of the best MCs in the industry, in his song "'Till I Collapse".

December 13, 2002: Release of God's Son album

On December 13, 2002, Nas released the album God's Son, which included the lead single "Made You Look." The album reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts. Time Magazine named it best hip-hop album of the year.

July 15, 2008: Release of Untitled Album

On July 15, 2008, Nas's untitled album was released. In July 2008, Nas attained a shoe deal with Fila. In an MTV interview, Nas speculated about releasing two albums: one produced by DJ Premier and another by Dr. Dre.

2008: Collaboration with Young Jeezy on "My President"

In 2008, Nas and Young Jeezy collaborated on the hit single "My President", resolving their previous feud.

2012: Nomination for Life Is Good at the Grammy Awards

In 2012, Nas released his tenth studio album, Life Is Good, which was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards.

2012: Ranked by The Source

In 2012, Nas was ranked second by The Source on their "Top 50 Lyricists of All Time" list, recognizing his lyrical talent.

July 2013: Harvard University establishes Nasir Jones Hip-Hop Fellowship

In July 2013, Harvard University established the Nasir Jones Hip-Hop Fellowship as part of the Hip-Hop Archives and W. E. B. Du Bois Research Institute, to fund scholars and artists in hip-hop arts.

2013: Ranked Fourth on MTV's "Hottest MCs in the Game"

In 2013, Nas was ranked fourth on MTV's "Hottest MCs in the Game" list.

2013: MTV's Hottest MCs Ranking

In 2013, Nas was ranked fourth on MTV's Annual Hottest MCs in the Game list, further solidifying his status in hip-hop.

2013: Life is Good Grammy Nomination

Life is Good was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 2013 Grammy Awards.

2014: Named Greatest MC of All Time

In 2014, About.com named Nas the "Greatest MC of All Time", recognizing his significant contributions to hip-hop.

2014: Ranked #1 on About.com's "50 Greatest MCs of All Time"

In 2014, About.com ranked Nas 1st on their list of the "50 Greatest MCs of All Time".

2014: Reconciliation with Cam'ron

In 2014, Nas and Cam'ron reconciled, ending their long-standing feud.

October 16, 2016: Jimmy Iovine Icon Award

On October 16, 2016, Nas received the Jimmy Iovine Icon Award at the REVOLT Music Conference for his lasting impact on music, his years in the rap business, his partnership with Hennessy, and his Mass Appeal imprint.

June 2018: Amazon acquired Ring Inc. and PillPack

In June 2018, Nas received $40 million after Amazon acquired Ring Inc. and PillPack, companies he invested in through Queensbridge Venture Partners.

November 12, 2019: Honored by Haute Living, Watches of Switzerland, and Hennessy

On November 12, 2019, Nas was honored by Haute Living, Watches of Switzerland, and Hennessy in a celebratory event featuring a violin rendition of his iconic songs performed by Edward W. Hardy.