Nasir Pemberton,[1] known professionally as Digital Nas or DN, is an American record producer, singer and songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia. He first gained recognition for his production work for Lil Yachty, and later for his work with Kanye West on his albums Donda (2021) and Vultures 1 (2024), both of which debuted atop the Billboard 200.[2]
Early life and career
Nasir Pemberton was born in Atlanta, Georgia. Getting involved with music early as a child, and throughout high school, he discovered his desire to produce music. As he continued to hone his production craft, he worked extensively with Trippie Redd, Playboi Carti and Lil Yachty prior to their mainstream breakthroughs. Following his quick rise to fame, Pemberton expanded to work with major artists including ASAP Rocky and Kanye West.
In January 2016, he formed his own record label, III Records. Pemberton has also frequently collaborated with fellow Atlanta-based artist Bktherula and executive produced her 2020 mixtape Nirvana, on which he also guest performed.[3]
Personal life
Outside of music, Pemberton is an avid skateboarder.[4]
Musical style and influences
Nas is widely known for his effort in breaking into the mumble rap genre through the online audio distribution platform SoundCloud. Nas has cited several prominent artists as influencing his musical style, including Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, Sid Vicious, and Morrissey. Additionally, his soft spot for shoegaze and punk rock bands, such as his favorite band Germs, are sources of inspiration.