Nas’ groundbreaking 1994 album, Illmatic, may be the most celebrated debut in the history of hip-hop.And because the importance of it can not be overstated, Nas is making sure to do his part in celebrating the 20th anniversary of his magnum opus.
Legacy Recordings has announced that it will release a 20th anniversary commemorative edition of the album titled Illmatic XX. The double disc will feature the original album digitally remastered on one disc, and 10 unreleased and remixed songs on the other.
Nas understands and appreciates the importance of Illmatic saying, “With Illmatic, I didn’t think about it. I just did it. I believe everybody has good instincts. Now I’m a man from that past and I’m supremely grateful. There’s a Nigerian proverb ‘What is past is prologue.’ I’m here today because of Illmatic.”
In addition to its re-release, Nas also announced that he will perform Illmatic in its entirety on tour this year, including his scheduled performance at the upcoming Coachella Festival in April.
Check out the track list for the unreleased/remixed disc of of Illmatic XX
1. I’m A Villain (previously unreleased)
2. The Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show on WKCR October 28, 1993 (previously unreleased freestyle)
3. Halftime (Butcher Remix)
4. It Ain’t Hard To Tell (Remix)(promo single)
5. One Love (LG Main Mix)
6. Life’s A Bitch (Arsenal Mix)(promo single)
7. One Love (One L Main Mix)
8. The World Is Yours (Tip Mix)
9. It Ain’t Hard To Tell (The Stink Mix)(UK single)
10. It Ain’t Hard To Tell (The Laidback Remix)(UK single)
Illmatic XX is available for pre-order at iTunes and Amazon and will be in stores on April 15.
