Exclusive: Danny Hastings Remembers Visiting Nas' Queens Apartment Before the Rapper's Breakthrough in Hip Hop

Danny Hastings, a celebrated photographer whose career flourished alongside New York City's 1990s hip hop scene, recalls the early days of connecting with iconic rappers before their stardom. He shares the significance of those friendships and how they continue to inspire him today.

Hastings latest work, Legendario, Act I: Rough, Rugged and Raw, the first installment of a three-part photographic retrospective, is now available. Hip hop, as Hastings notes, has always intertwined with various art forms, and his lens captured the genre as it transformed in the early '90s.

Reflecting on the era, Hastings says, "We all started from modest beginnings." Growing up in Panama, he experienced a humble upbringing, instilled with strong values and respect for othersprinciples he noticed in people like Nas.

He vividly remembers Nas Queens apartment: "It was the hood, Queenbridge projects, but inside, it was filled with warmthcrocheted doilies, plastic on the couches, a loving atmosphere despite the chaos outside."

The bond between Hastings and these early hip hop figures led to memorable collaborations, including the recent cover shoot for Nas and DJ Premier's joint album Light Years, released December 12. Over the years, Hastings has photographed hip hop legends like Wu-Tang Clan, Cypress Hill, and De La Soul.

Legendario, Act I: Rough, Rugged and Raw features interactive QR codes that reveal behind-the-scenes stories, alternate shots, and insights into pivotal hip hop sessions. Hastings emphasizes that his early experiences and relationships continue to fuel his creative vision.

He recalls intimate moments, such as helping ODB with a few dollars during the 36 Chambers sessions, illustrating the close, personal connections that shaped his career. "Even before they were famous, the respect and camaraderie were real," Hastings notes.

While Hastings avoids naming favorites, he holds his collaborations in high regard, highlighting Wu-Tang, Nas, Eminem, and DJ Premier as special creative partnerships. "Every time I work with them, it's magic," he says.

Through his book, Hastings aims to connect with fans past and present, sharing an authentic, self-published experience. "I hope it inspires young creatives and brings back memories for those who lived through these times," he explains. "Documenting your work is essential todayotherwise, it can be forgotten."

Legendario, Act I: Rough, Rugged and Raw is now available for purchase.

Author: Zoe Harrison