July, 2025
Nas with the Chicago Philharmonic
Event Details
Nas with the Chicago Philharmonic
Tickets on sale April 24 only at ravinia.org.
About the Performance:
Experience hip-hop history reimagined as Nas makes his Ravinia debut, joining forces with the Chicago Philharmonic for a powerful symphonic performance of his groundbreaking debut album, Illmatic. More than three decades after its release, this genre-defining masterpiece—ranked by Billboard as the #1 Greatest Rap Album of All Time—takes on a new life with lush orchestration, elevating Nas’ poetic lyricism and raw storytelling to epic proportions.
Since his 1994 debut, Nas has shaped the sound and soul of hip-hop, releasing 14 subsequent albums—8 of which have gone platinum or multi-platinum, including Nastradamus, Stillmatic, God’s Son, and Street’s Disciple. A 16-time GRAMMY nominee, he secured his first win with King’s Disease in 2020 for Best Rap Album, followed by two sequels and his Magic trilogy, produced alongside Hit-Boy. His most recent release, Magic 3, marks the final chapter of this prolific creative partnership, closing an extraordinary era of innovation and influence.
Beyond music, Nas is a hip-hop mogul, actor, executive producer, and co-founder of Mass Appeal Records, whose impact on the culture is immeasurable. Now, this one-night-only collaboration with the Chicago Philharmonic brings his legacy to the concert stage like never before—an unforgettable fusion of hip-hop and symphony that honors one of the most influential albums of all time.
Don’t miss this monumental musical event—a rare chance to witness Nas and the Chicago Philharmonic unite for a live orchestral performance of Illmatic.
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About Nas
Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones on September 14, 1973, in Brooklyn, New York, is a seminal figure in hip-hop, renowned for his intricate lyricism and storytelling. His debut album, Illmatic (1994), is celebrated as a cornerstone of hip-hop, offering a raw depiction of urban life. Over his career, Nas has released multiple platinum albums, including It Was Written (1996) and Stillmatic (2001), solidifying his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time. Beyond music, Nas has ventured into entrepreneurship, investing in technology startups and launching his own record label, Mass Appeal Records. His collaboration with orchestras, such as the National Symphony Orchestra in 2014, showcases his innovative approach to blending classical elements with hip-hop, underscoring his lasting influence on the genre.
About Chicago Philharmonic
Founded in 1989 by musicians of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, the Chicago Philharmonic Society is dedicated to reimagining the orchestra concert experience. With nearly 200 musician members and a unique system of musician governance, Chicago Philharmonic is recognized as one of the most versatile, innovative, and ambitious orchestras in the country.
Chicago Philharmonic proudly collaborates with the world’s greatest artists across multiple genres. Past partnerships include Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Joshua Bell, Kishi Bashi, The Joffrey Ballet, English National Ballet, Tank and the Bangas, William Basinski, American Ballet Theatre, Ryan Speedo Green, and more.
Since Crain’s Chicago Business 40 Under 40 honoree Terell Johnson became Executive Director in 2021, the orchestra has continued to expand its artistic reach and push the boundaries of symphonic performance. Notable recent milestones include a history-making debut at Lollapalooza as the first orchestra to perform at the festival, a sold-out Carnegie Hall debut with Sleeping At Last, and a world premiere tribute to Whitney Houston at Ravinia Festival. From groundbreaking live film concerts to dynamic collaborations with today’s most exciting artists, Chicago Philharmonic remains at the forefront of innovation and inclusion in the city’s performing arts landscape.
