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Nas' Illmatic: A 33 ⅓ Analysis by Matthew Gasteier

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Nas s Illmatic (33 1/3 64) Matthew Gasteier

Nas's Illmatic (33 1/3 Book 64)

by Matthew Gasteier

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	510 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	126 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Released in 1994, Nas' Illmatic is widely considered to be one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time. The album's raw and honest lyrics, paired with its innovative production, have made it a timeless classic. In his book Illmatic: A 33 ⅓ Analysis, Matthew Gasteier provides an in-depth look at the album, exploring its themes, production, and cultural impact.

Gasteier begins by discussing the album's title. "Illmatic" is a play on the words "ill" and "automatic." Ill, in hip hop slang, means good or dope. Automatic, in this context, refers to something that is effortless or natural. The title thus suggests that the album is both dope and effortless, which is a fitting description for this classic work of art.

Gasteier then goes on to discuss the album's production. Illmatic was produced by DJ Premier, Large Professor, and Q-Tip, three of the most respected producers in hip hop. The album's beats are sparse and atmospheric, providing the perfect backdrop for Nas's lyrics. The beats are also incredibly innovative, featuring a mix of samples, loops, and live instrumentation. Gasteier provides a detailed analysis of each beat, highlighting the producers' skill and creativity.

The lyrics on Illmatic are just as impressive as the production. Nas raps about his life experiences in a raw and honest way, painting a vivid picture of the challenges he faced growing up in the Queensbridge housing projects. He raps about poverty, violence, and drugs, but he also raps about hope and redemption. Gasteier provides a close reading of the lyrics, exploring their meaning and symbolism. He also discusses the album's cultural impact, arguing that it helped to change the way that people thought about hip hop.

Illmatic: A 33 ⅓ Analysis is a must-read for any fan of Nas or hip hop. Gasteier's book provides an in-depth look at one of the most important albums in hip hop history. He explores the album's themes, production, and cultural impact, providing a fresh perspective on this classic work of art.

About the Author

Matthew Gasteier is a writer and editor who has written extensively about hip hop. He is the author of the books Illmatic: A 33 ⅓ Analysis and The Rap Year Book. He has also written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian.