4. Nas
Nas and the East Coast rap game are completely synonymous with one another. Starting in the early ’80s, Nas began hitting the Long Island streets with mix tape after mix tape. After garnering a local buzz, Nas flourished — starting by signing with Columbia Records. Nas was immensely introspective, and in a sense personal when rapping. His lyrics were poetic in nature, and seamlessly flowed. While he wasn’t always a mainstream name, many within the industry recognize Nas’ ridiculous talent.
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