Nas Talks ‘Illmatic,’ Gun Violence on ‘Real Time With Bill Maher’

While on his promo tour for his 20th anniversary album 'Illmatic XX,' Nas appeared on HBO’s 'Real Time with Bill Maher' to talk about his iconic album, among other things.

The rapper spoke to the political commentator about the legacy of the original 1994 LP and why it still holds up 20 years later. The Queensbridge, N.Y., MC remained humbled and credited the producers who undoubtedly gave him timeless music to work with.

Nas also explained to Maher about his song 'Black Republican,' his collaboration with Jay Z.

"We understand what's going on," he explained. "We can get down with any program that's going on, as long as it's fair."

For the record, Nas is not a black Republican.

Later, Nas sat in a roundtable discussion with a panel of journalists to discuss gun violence in impoverished neighborhoods.

The 40-year-old rapper also touched on DeSean Jackson being axed from the Philadelphia Eagles for allegedly being affiliated with a gang.

"I just wanna know who is the gang-sinologist in the NFL," he said. "I didn't know they had crips and bloods on payroll."

Overall, Nas held his own among the pundits on several political issues.

Nas’ 'Illmatic XX' album will arrive in stores on April 15.

Watch Nas on 'Real Time with Bill Maher'