Nas

Nas has all of the talents listed above but is less conscientious about following the standards of technical rhyming. This looseness enables him to write lyrical substance that is significantly more intricate. He strikes a balance between irritating, didactic, and informal, in which you really learn something by listening.

Nas is an example of a star who has really just the right amount of abilities from a variety of different genres that complement one another but never interfere with the lyrics (unlike Tech N9ne who also appears in this list). He's on every top list, in part because he learned from Kool G Rap then built on that foundation.

Nas has eight straight platinum and multi-platinum records. He was embroiled in several public spats with 2pac, Jay-Z, Young Jeezy and Cam'ron Young Jeezy. He has received 12 Grammy nominations, five Nominations for MTV Video Music Awards, and many BET Hip Hop Awards victories. He has sold more than 30 million albums to date.

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Years active: 1991 - now

Awards: 4

Hits: If I Ruled the World, The World is Yours, The Message

Website: https://www.nasirjones.com/