The album 'I Am...' was released on April 23, 1999, by Columbia Records. Originally conceived as a double album titled 'I Am... The Autobiography', intended to cover Nas's entire career up to that point, but after numerous songs leaked online, the project was reduced to a single disc.
The album debuted at number 1 on the Billboard 200, selling approximately 470,000 copies in its first week. It includes the singles 'Nas Is Like', produced by DJ Premier, and 'Hate Me Now', featuring Puff Daddy, whose music video sparked controversy due to a crucifixion scene.
Despite its commercial success, 'I Am...' received mixed reviews, with some critics noting that the final version did not meet the expectations of the ambitious original project. However, songs like 'Undying Love' and 'Small World' are considered classics within his discography.