What was the Nas hype?

[Lcat]

Many people consider Nas "underrated" and "one of the best".

I don't see why.

I don't hate nor dislike Nas.

Why is he treated as an unique, extaordinary and groundbreaking rapper?

[CRAZY-HORSE]

a friend recommended Nas to me a while ago...
so I bought a compilation as a starting point, I haven't got round to hearing it yet so I have no opinion yet