Nas - I Am...The Autobiography (2LP)

Nas - I am...The Autobiography 2xLP Vinyl Record (2023 Record Store Day Black Friday Exclusive)

I Am... The Autobiography, the long sought-after bootleg released commercially for the first time. Features 2 unreleased tracks, as well as many other rarities that have been on limited vinyl and 12" previously, as well as deluxe packaging.

I Am...The Autobiography (Bootleg) 2LP vinyl, a must-have collector's item for any true music enthusiast. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this vinyl comes in a deluxe double LP format, guaranteeing a superior audio experience. The 2LP vinyl set is impeccably packaged, with stunning artwork that captures its essence. The gatefold cover reveals rare photographs, handwritten lyrics, and personal anecdotes.

Nas's third studio album, "I Am...The Autobiography," released on April 6, 1999, is a fascinating piece of work that showcases the rapper's lyrical prowess and storytelling ability. This album came at a pivotal time in Nas's career, following the critical acclaim of his debut "Illmatic" and the commercial success of "It Was Written." "I Am..." was initially intended to be a double album, but after a series of bootlegging incidents, Nas had to rework the project, resulting in a single-disc release.

The album opens with "N.Y. State of Mind Pt. II," a sequel to one of Nas's most iconic tracks from "Illmatic." This track sets the tone for the album, with Nas painting vivid pictures of life in New York City through his intricate wordplay and smooth delivery. The production, handled by DJ Premier, is gritty and atmospheric, perfectly complementing Nas's storytelling.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Hate Me Now," featuring Puff Daddy. This song is an anthem of defiance and resilience, with Nas addressing his critics and asserting his place in the rap game. The accompanying music video, which famously featured Nas being crucified, sparked controversy and added to the song's notoriety. "Hate Me Now" was a commercial success and remains one of Nas's most well-known tracks.

"Nas Is Like," produced by DJ Premier, is another highlight of the album. The track features a haunting piano loop and a hard-hitting beat, over which Nas delivers some of his most memorable lines. The chemistry between Nas and DJ Premier is undeniable, and this track is often cited as one of the best collaborations between the two.

The album also delves into more introspective territory with tracks like "Undying Love," where Nas tells a tragic story of love and betrayal. His ability to weave complex narratives into his music is one of his greatest strengths, and "Undying Love" is a prime example of this talent.

Critically, "I Am...The Autobiography" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised Nas's lyrical ability and the album's production, while others felt it didn't quite live up to the high standards set by "Illmatic." Despite this, the album was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and eventually being certified double platinum by the RIAA.

In terms of cultural significance, "I Am..." is an important part of Nas's discography, marking a period of transition and experimentation in his career. The album's themes of identity, fame, and the struggles of life in the inner city resonate with listeners and contribute to Nas's reputation as one of the greatest storytellers in hip-hop.

Overall, "I Am...The Autobiography" is a compelling album that showcases Nas's lyrical genius and ability to craft vivid narratives. While it may not have reached the legendary status of "Illmatic," it remains a significant and influential work in Nas's career and in the broader landscape of hip-hop. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Nas's music, "I Am..." offers a rich listening experience that captures the essence of one of rap's most iconic figures.