Since releasing his seminal debut album, Illmatic, in 1994, Nas has consistently been one of hip-hop’s most innovation artist that’s never been afraid to veer off the driven path.
In celebration of his debut’s 30th anniversary, the rapper and businessman is doing a set of special shows over the upcoming Labor Day weekend in which he’ll be backed by the Las Vegas Philharmonic.
“Las Vegas has always served as a creative outlet for my music, and these performances will take that to the next level,” the Queens, NY native told Billboard. “I am excited to partner with the Las Vegas Philharmonic to bring this first-of-its-kind performance to Encore Theater and to showcase my music to my fans in Las Vegas in a whole new way.”
“We could not be more thrilled to welcome Nas to Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas for this historic collaboration with the Las Vegas Philharmonic to celebrate one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever made,” added AEG Presents Las Vegas exec Bobby Reynolds.
Widely acclaimed amongst hip-hop scholars and fans alike, and currently ranked number 44 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list, Illmatic is credited with ushering in a new era of gritty New York street smart lyricism backed by the production of legendary sound craftsmen DJ Premier, Large Professor, L.E.S., Pete Rock and Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest.
Official album commemoration activities kicked off last month as Nas released a slew of new exclusive merchandise including crewnecks, hoodies, leather jackets, sweats and T-shirts with artwork from artists Andrew Agutos, Esteban Whiteside, Rushad Kolah and Samborghini.
The “You Wouldn’t Understand” rapper also announced plans for a fifteen-date tour of Europe kicking off in Finland on Oct. 22 and ending in London on Nov. 15.
Nas will take the stage with the Las Vegas Philharmonic at Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas on Aug. 29, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.
For more information on all show dates and Illmatic commemorative events check out nasirjones.com
