Illmatic is the classic debut studio album by American rapper Nas, released on April 19, 1994, by Columbia Records. After signing with the label with the help of MC Serch, Nas recorded the album in 1992–1993 at Chung King Studios, D&D Recording, Battery Studios, and Unique Recording Studios in New York City. Since its initial reception, Illmatic has been recognized by writers and music critics as a landmark album in East Coast hip-hop. Its influence on subsequent hip-hop artists has been attributed to the album's production and Nas' lyricism. It also contributed to the revival of the New York City Read more on Last.fm.
Why I waited a quarter-century to give this record my undivided attention is beyond me … it deserves every inch of the height of its pedestal. Certified classic hip-hop.