Nas stunned fans with an exclusive concert alongside the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra on Sunday, May 1^st. The legendary New York rapper celebrated his hit debut album, Illmatic, nearly three decades after its initial release date with the magnificent LA Phil.

Nas celebrated the 28^th anniversary of Illmatic with a grand performance alongside his very own DJ, three-piece band, Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Hundreds of guests celebrated the album’s cultural influence with Nas for his first performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The album has been dubbed as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, so what better way to celebrate it than surrounded by fans and one of the most prestigious orchestras in the world.

Photographs taken by Craig Mathew/Mathew Imaging at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, provided courtesy of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association

The crowd received Nas with a standing ovation, cheering profoundly for the rapper as he entered the centered stage in a fully white suit and blinding jewelry. The performer opened with his greatest hit “N.Y. State of Mind.” Without hesitation, hundreds of audience members began to rap along every word, and a many immediately jumping out of their seats to dance along every beat.

A young gentleman sitting three seats down from me was emotionally overwhelmed as Nas performed “Life’s a Bitch.” The evening was filled with vast emotions as Nas continuously thanked the crowd for their immense support which helped him achieve great success. Nas remembered those who lost their lives in the streets of New York and reminded the crowd that anything is possible right before performing “The World Is Yours.” Every song was amplified in such an extravagant manner, trumpets and wind instruments carrying immense emotions that vibrated throughout the venue.

The crowd cheered and applauded Gustavo Dudamel and LA Phil as they exited the stage. Nas continued performing with his DJ and three-piece band during the second half of his performance. Throughout the second half of the performance, the entire audience rose to their feet, many dancing and rapping along every lyric. Nas concluded the night once again expressive his gratitude towards fans. The night was definitely one to remember as LA Phil did Illmatic justice for its 28^th anniversary.