Nas – “Deja Vu”

Today marks the 15th anniversary of Nas’ sophomore album It Was Written. The album was originally released July 2, 1996. I still remember the mixed reception that album received when it dropped. The pink suit in the “Street Dreams” video didn’t help matters even though it was inspired by Sam Rothstein’s character from Casino. I still don’t like “Nas Is Coming” but I love that album. In 1996 there would’ve be no way I’d be call anything by Track Masters classic but It Was Written has aged well like fine wine. One of the songs created during the recording process of the album was “Deja Vu” produced by Chris Winston. The first verse should sound familiar its Nas’ verse off “Verbal Intercourse” from Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx. “Deja Vu” didn’t make the album due to label politics but its arguably one of Nas’ greatest songs. Chris Winston has the only DAT (digital audio tape) for “Deja Vu” even though lo-fi and unmastered versions of the song exist. Definitely would love to see this track released in CDQ at some point whether we get a Lost Tapes II or not. In honour of the 15th anniversary of It Was Written I wanted to spotlight this Nas gem.

You can stream “Deja Vu” below and download it after the jump

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Download: Nas – “Deja Vu” [Right Click, Save-As]