Nas is making his rounds promoting the 20th anniversary for “Illmatic,” so of course he had to answer some questions on Reddit’s Ask Me Anything. Here’s what we learned from his AMA.
On writing “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It’ for Will Smith:
“I hung out with Will in the studio. And watched him write it. It was a fun studio session, and I said a line or two or three to him. It wasn’t that serious. Will Smith wrote that song.”
On how he views “It Was Written” vs. “Illmatic”
“I mean, that was my point. I had to grow… that was my goal, to make a superior record. I felt like at that point, if I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here now.”
Favorite book:
“Prior Convictions” by Richard Pryor (which you can find here)
On fan memories:
“At least once a year, a fan will tell me that one of my albums helped them find a reason to not commit suicide and to go on. That’s powerful. I’m humbled. And it scares the shit out of me too.”
On his favorite artist to collaborate with:
(photo: The Fader)
“Damian Marley. Definitely the most fun. And very wise, a very wise guy, very talented guy. And he was professional, no ID.”
On working with Beastie Boys:
“Legendary. Those guys are legends. Rest in peace Adam. Told me a lot of old school stories that day about grimy New York clubs when they were starting.”
On being known for “Illmatic” 20 years later:
“It’s kind of crazy. But I guess I’m so not the first. So hey.”
On the most influential albums:
“Public Enemy’s It Takes a nation. Erik B and Rakim Paid in Full. Drake’s last album.”
On his favorite TV shows:
“Modern Family, that girl, Sofia Vergara, I need her. Walking Dead. House of Cards is my shit.”
Check out the rest of his AMA here.
