Hip-Hop is often viewed as a young man’s game, but Nas has defied that notion by continuing to evolve as an artist well into his 40s and beyond. The Queensbridge legend, who first set the rap world on fire with Illmatic at 20, has shown no signs of slowing down, crafting some of his most insightful, innovative, and lyrically sharp material after turning 40 in 2013.
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With a combination of wisdom, technical mastery, and an ear for top-tier production, Nas has delivered albums that stand alongside his earlier classics. Here are 20 incredible songs he has written and recorded after 40 that prove he’s only gotten better with time.
1. Thun (King’s Disease III, 2022)
A standout from KD3, “Thun” finds Nas in vintage storytelling mode, reflecting on his history with Jay-Z, the Queensbridge lifestyle, and the chess moves of his career. His ability to rap with humor, insight, and maturity all at once makes this track a gem.
2. Slow It Down (Magic 2, 2023)
Over a haunting beat, Nas delivers intricate verses about life’s pace, staying focused, and avoiding distractions. It’s a song that showcases his ability to weave wisdom into everyday experiences.
3. Speechless (Magic, 2021)
With Hit-Boy crafting a soulful backdrop, Nas raps about the surreal nature of his longevity and success. His flow is effortless, making it clear that his pen remains razor-sharp.
4. Nobody (feat. Lauryn Hill) (King’s Disease II, 2021)
Reuniting with Lauryn Hill, “Nobody” is a deep reflection on fame, privacy, and the price of success. Lauryn’s verse steals the show, but Nas sets the stage with introspective bars that make this track unforgettable.
5. Reminisce (King’s Disease III, 2022)
Nostalgia meets motivation on “Reminisce,” as Nas reflects on his past while staying fully engaged in the present. The hook flips Mary J. Blige’s classic “Reminisce,” adding another layer of Hip-Hop history to the track.
6. The Truth (Magic , 2021)
This song captures Nas at his most reflective, addressing personal growth, the importance of honesty, and the lessons learned from success and failure. His storytelling remains impeccable.
7. Meet Joe Black (Magic, 2021)
A hard-hitting track where Nas raps with confidence and hunger, reminding everyone why he’s still a top-tier MC. The title references the 1998 film, tying in themes of fate and inevitability.
8. Once A Man, Twice A Child (King’s Disease III, 2022)
One of Nas’ most profound songs in recent years, this track explores aging, wisdom, and the cyclical nature of life. His ability to make deep subjects feel accessible is one of his greatest strengths.
9. 40-16 Building (Magic, 2021)
A nod to his Queensbridge roots, “40-16 Building” features Nas in full storytelling mode, painting vivid pictures of his early days and the lessons learned along the way.
10. Hollywood Gangsta (Magic 2, 2023)
Here, Nas critiques the entertainment industry while maintaining his signature smooth delivery. The track is both a cautionary tale and a flex, reminding listeners that he’s stayed true to himself.
11. Get Light (King’s Disease III, 2022)
A feel-good track where Nas effortlessly rides the beat, proving that he can still make music that’s both fun and lyrically sharp.
12. Michael & Quincy (King’s Disease III, 2022)
This track compares Nas and Hit-Boy’s chemistry to the legendary duo of Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones. The intricate wordplay and confident delivery make it one of his best post-40 records.
13. Motion (Magic 2, 2023)
A hypnotic, high-energy track where Nas plays with flows and rhyme schemes, showing that he can still experiment and push his artistry forward.
14. Legit (King’s Disease III, 2022)
Built around a The Five Heartbeats sample, “Legit” finds Nas dropping wisdom about success, legacy, and maintaining authenticity in the rap game.
15. Store Run (King’s Disease II, 2021)
A cinematic track where Nas reminisces on his hustler days and how those experiences shaped his mentality. His storytelling remains as sharp as ever.
16. 30 (King’s Disease III, 2022)
This track is a celebration of longevity, with Nas reflecting on his three-decade career while reaffirming his dominance in the game.
17. Ultra Black (King’s Disease, 2020)
A cultural anthem that celebrates Black excellence, “Ultra Black” is a reminder of Nas’ ability to make music that is both personal and universally impactful.
18. Echo (with Swizz Beatz) (Poison, 2018)
Over lush production, Nas paints a lyrical masterpiece, proving that his storytelling and introspection only deepen with time.
19. Jodeci Member (Magic 3, 2023)
This track sees Nas reflecting on past loves, fame, and the complexities of relationships, all delivered with smooth, poetic finesse.
20. Pistols On Your Album Cover (Magic 2, 2023)
A powerful critique of rap’s obsession with violence and image, Nas dissects the industry’s glorification of negativity while delivering one of his most thought-provoking songs.
Nas’ ability to remain relevant, creative, and lyrically sharp after 40 and 50 is nothing short of remarkable. Whether he’s dropping introspective gems, storytelling classics, or braggadocious bangers, his pen has remained untouchable. These 20 songs showcase a legend who refuses to rest on past success, proving that Hip-Hop isn’t just for the young—it’s for the timeless.
What are your favorite Nas tracks from his post-40 era? Let us know in the comments.
