Hip-hop legend Nas and renowned conductor Steven Reineke of the National Symphony Orchestra recently joined forces to deliver an unforgettable experience of art and music in celebration of the 30th anniversary of Nas’s hit album, Illmatic, at the Filene Center at Wolf Trap.
On July 21 at Wolf Trap, the show opened with the orchestra playing the introduction of Illmatic, setting a tone that was both elegant and powerful — a true treat for the audience.
Nas performed the entire Illmatic album word for word, accompanied by his live band and the orchestra. The fusion of live acoustics with Nas’s iconic lyrics was a sight to see and a blessing to hear. The crowd sang along to every track, from “Memory Lane” to “NY State of Mind,” fully immersed in the performance.
Watch Nas “NY State of Mind” live at SXSW on YouTube:
Midway through the set, Nas surprised the audience by bringing out rapper AZ. Together, they performed some of their collaborative hits, including “The Essence” and “How Ya Livin,” adding another layer of excitement to the evening. AZ’s presence and the chemistry between the two artists energized the crowd even more.
The aura of the show was majestic, seamlessly blending the dual vibes of classical art and hip-hop music. The orchestral arrangements elevated Nas’s classic tracks, creating a unique and transcendent experience that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. The grandeur of the live instruments combined with Nas’s powerful delivery created a memorable night that highlighted the timelessness of Illmatic.
Overall, this concert was not just a performance but a celebration of musical artistry. It showcased the enduring legacy of Nas and the versatility of the National Symphony Orchestra, proving that when two different musical worlds collide, the result can be something truly extraordinary. This was an event that should be experienced by many, a testament to the power of music to bridge diverse genres and create something truly magical.
Here are some photos of Las performing with the National Symphony Orchestra at Wolf Trap on July 21, 2024. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Thomas Sellers.
