New York stand up!

The NYC hip-hop scene was set ablaze as Nas and Wu-Tang Clan brought their “NY State of Mind Tour” home to The Barclays Center on Wednesday night (Sep. 27. In a rare gathering, all the members of Wu-Tang Clan, sans ODB, graced the stage alongside De La Soul, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.

De La Soul kicked off the evening, paving the way for Wu-Tang Clan to deliver their signature raw energy. Nas followed suit, running through his chart-topping hits with a visible passion that resonated with the audience. But the real magic happened when Nas and Wu-Tang shared the stage, seamlessly interchanging between sets and performing their iconic tracks.

For hip-hop aficionados, this concert was a dream come true. Nas’s mastery of the mic was on full display, and his genuine enjoyment of the stage was palpable. Each member of Wu-Tang Clan brought their unique style and flair. Raekwon and Ghostface had that undeniable drip, Method Man’s energy was infectious, RZA led the way as the Abbott, and GZA’s poise and crowd connection were a sight to behold.

Even the spirit of ODB was present, as his son ignited the stage, keeping his legacy and expression alive. The night reached its climax when Nas and Wu-Tang united for “One Mic,” a moment that epitomized the unity and brilliance of hip-hop.

There’s so much more to say about this show, but it can all be summed up in one word: epic. It was one of the dopest shows in recent memory, a testament to the enduring power of hip-hop and the undeniable talent of these legendary artists.

Written & Photos: Ismail Sayeed