Nas 'Made Em Look' At New York City's Central Park
Published: Sunday - August 15, 2004
Words by Mark Lelinwalla
Nas (Photo: Columbia)
Despite the relentless rain, thousands of hip-hop fans packed into New York City's Central Park on the Upper West Side for Nas' free concert on Sunday (August 15). However, from the onset fans -- equipped with umbrellas -- had to play the waiting game. From about 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., there was an absolute standstill, the line was not moving.
Some fans got restless, as they lifted up a police barricade and slammed it to the ground. Then, the New York Police Department -- outfitted with riot gear -- held up a sign that essentially said the venue is filled to capacity. Fans standing out in the rain didn't appreciate that -- some threw bottles at the police.
However, when DJ Mr. Cee made his appearance on the wheels of steel, fans reacted and the line started moving. The actual concert was originally scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m., but instead started at 4:30 p.m. As Nas' voice echoed throughout the crowd, people responded. Masses upon masses bumrushed the venue to get their glimpse of New York hip-hop history.
The Illmatic one went through many of his classics and even brought out some guests to share the stage with him. Former Firm member and Queens native AZ, Busta Rhymes and the M-O-B-B, Mobb Deep, made appearances on stage with him. Mobb Deep and Nas performed "Eye for an Eye," Nas also did "Hate Me Now," as well as his new single, "Thief's Theme," off the impending Street's Disciple LP. At around 7 p.m., Nas closed out the show with "One Mic."
The New York Daily News reported one person was arrested for disorderly conduct and two others were given summonses for disorderly conduct. However, despite a couple of incidents and the shabby weather, the tremendous showing proves that Nas is loved by his fans.
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