Stillmatic

Stillmatic is the fifth studio album by American rapper Nas, released December 18, 2001, on Ill Will Records and Columbia Records. The project marked a return to Nas's street-oriented storytelling and lyrical focus after a period of experimentation on previous releases. It also functioned as a response to the feud with fellow rapper Jay-Z, most notably through the track Ether, a direct and widely cited diss aimed at Jay-Z's credibility and catalog.

The album blends hard-edged rhymes, social commentary, and personal reflection, with tracks addressing poverty, family, and fame. One Mic is highlighted for its pared-down production and Nas's introspective delivery; Ether is recognized as one of hip-hop's most infamous diss songs. The sequencing and production bring together a range of producers and styles, from boom-bap foundations to more cinematic arrangements.

Reception was generally positive, with critics praising Nas's lyricism and the album's cohesive focus, while some noted uneven material. Stillmatic is regarded as a pivotal moment in Nas's career, restoring his critical standing in the early 2000s and contributing to ongoing conversations about authenticity and rivalry in hip-hop.

Commercially, Stillmatic performed well, reinforcing Nas's status as a leading figure in hip-hop at the time and remaining a key entry in his discography for its mature, combative, and anthemic tracks.