Nas Celebrates 30 Years of 'Illmatic' With New Umbro and Nicholas Daley Collaboration

Encapsulating Nas’ New York City upbringing.

by · Hypebeast
Umbro/Nicholas Daley
Umbro/Nicholas Daley
Umbro/Nicholas Daley
Umbro/Nicholas Daley
Umbro/Nicholas Daley
Umbro/Nicholas Daley

Nas’ debut album, Illmatic, is undoubtedly one of the greatest albums of all time. Released on April 19 1993, by Columbia Records, after signing with the label with the help of MC Serch, Nas recorded the album in 1992 and 1993 at Chung King Studios, D&D Recording, Battery Studios, and Unique Recording Studios in New York City. Now, the album is celebrating its 30th anniversary. In commemoration of this milestone, Nas has linked up with UK brands Umbro and Nicholas Daley for a limited-edition soccer jersey that celebrates Nas’ impact on music and style.

The limited-edition release is a combination of both Umbro and Daley’s DNAs, along with the imprint’s future-facing approach to heritage-inspired fashion. Meanwhile, the design also encapsulates Nas’ New York City upbringing along with the global influence Illmatic has had on music. Aesthetically, the jersey is designed with a slew of Nas iconography, while the relaxed silhouette is hit with design cues that combine the sport, music, and fashion industries.

Commenting on the release of the new jersey, Nicholas Daley said: “Curating this exclusive Nas 30th anniversary Illmatic style in collaboration with Umbro has been a true honor for one of hip-hop’s legendary icons. Illmatic is one of my favorite albums of all time and the impact it has had both musically and culturally is so evident today. The collaboration is  a celebration of hip-hop and the legacy of Illmatic, whilst incorporating the heritage of Umbro in a  collection which I wanted to feel both classic and forward-looking.”

Take a closer look at the new Illmatic jersey by Nicholas Daley and Umbro above and be sure to head to the official Nicholas Daley website to buy yours now.