Nas' 'ILLmatic' or Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt'?

Near the turn of the 21st century, the Hip Hop world witnessed Nas and Jay-Z, two of the game’s prominent emcees, go at each other on wax. It was controversial, which resulted in timeless classics such as “Ether” and Takeover.” Thankfully, they’ve made peace since then. However, the conversation between the two will always remain among Hip Hop enthusiasts. With that being said, let’s discuss their debuts, ILLmatic and Reasonable Doubt.

Between the two, ILLmatic hit the universe first in ’94. Nas had the duty of putting Queensbridge projects and Queens, his hood and borough, respectively, on his back. To some, the borough had not been at full strength since taken a blow in “The Bridge Wars” — Boogie Down Production vs Juice Crew. However, Nas’ lyrics and narrating skills were stronger than they needed.

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In “NY State of Mind,” one of the more popular songs on the album, Nas gave us the gritty side of the city that’s mostly known for fashion & bright lights.

AZ, Nas fellow partner in rhyme, nearly stole the show in “Life’s A Bitch.” But of course, Nasir wouldn’t allow that.

“I woke up early on my born day; I’m 20, it’s a blessin’,” Nas spits. “The essence of adolescence leaves my body, now I’m fresh and…”

DJ Premier and Large Professor, among others, lent a hand with the production.

Illmatic peaked at the number 12 spot on the US Billboard 200 and number 2 on US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. It was certified Gold within a year. It would go onto reach Double-Platinum status.

Reasonable Doubt came two years later. And just like Nas, Jigga, the Marcy Projects and Brooklyn native, represented his turf to the fullest. In fact, “Brooklyn’s Finest” featuring The Notorious B.I.G., spoke volumes of his home borough.

“Can’t Knock the Hustle,” features Mary J. Blige on the hook, opens the album and set the tone. The aforementioned samples Meli’sa Morgan’s 1986 jam, “Fool’s Paradise.”

The album had many tracks that has withstood the test of time such as “Politics as Usual” and “Can I Live.” However, “Ain’t No Nigga” help skyrocketed the album’s popularity.

Jay-Z borrow a line from Nas’ “The World is Yours” to create “Dead Presidents II.”

Reasonable Doubt reached the number 23 on the US Billboard 200. Eventually, the album was certified platinum.

Admittedly, this is an age-old question, but unlike milk, this debate doesn’t have an expiration date.