“N.Y. State of Mind” – Nas
(Words/music: Nasir Jones and Chris Martin, available on Illmatic, Columbia 1994)

I like hip hop for two distinct reasons – I admire the way rappers use words and I’m amazed by the way DJs and producers set the stage for the MCs.  More often than not, one of these forces takes the lead.  It can be a gifted lyricist crafting vivid images and witty lines over a lackluster beat, or it can be a hypnotic beat (and usually a solid to spectacular hook) that makes an average rapper sound legendary for a few minutes.  In most occasions, I’m drawn in by the track first – if it sounds good, I’ll probably give it a try, and if it sounds great, I’ll play it again.  When Iyrics pull me in first, it’s usually from an over-the-top line (Lil’ Wayne throws these around almost effortlessly) or something so perfect that it’s hard to ignore.  Otherwise, the words take time to unfold, revealing a new part of the story or a new image with each listen.

Even if I love a sublime beat or a perfectly used sample, it’s even more difficult to know when to show restraint.  DJ Premier does this masterfully, creating a beat that’s minimal yet potent.  On one hand, the piano loop and heavy kick drum provide a sparse, ominous backdrop for Nas, who spends part of the track bragging about his skills and part depicting life in Queensbridge.  It’s a smart move by DJ Premier to step out of the way and let Nas shine, as his lyricism deserves the spotlight.  However, Premier manages to keep Nas in the spotlight and make an evocative and complementary track at the same time.  He casts the same shadowy, vaguely threatening feel that Nas cultivates in his lyrics.  Additionally, he also provides some interesting rhythmic counterpoint to Nas’ flow; while Nas rhymes at a steady pace, the slow-moving bass line circles around like a snake coiling, ready to strike.  Even the piano loop has its own distinct rhythm, repeating the same rhythmic pattern to create a trance-like beat.  Once Premier lulls the listener in, Nas lets his rhymes do the damage.

More on Nas: Allmusic | Amazon MP3 | Emusic | Last.fm