Nas is brushing off the buzz linking his latest business triumph to his legendary rap rivalry with Jay-Z. The Queens icon’s partnership with Resorts World for a $5.5 billion casino project recently received unanimous approval from New York City’s Community Advisory Committee—the same group that previously denied Jay-Z’s Times Square casino bid, backed by Roc Nation, SL Green, and Caesars.
Fans quickly turned the development into a playful “Ether vs. Takeover” throwback, but Nas isn’t letting the chatter distract him.
“It is just a thing that some people are going to talk about,” Nas told Rolling Stone.
“No one has any control over things like that. I still study Rakim and Big Daddy Kane. Some rap fans just like to go off on those things from time to time. That’s it.”
Even Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. joined in on the fun, joking:
“There’s a theme in Queens, and I know that Nas was a part of this: Queens get the money. Sorry, Jay-Z, we win again.”
A Monumental Project in Queens
With Resorts World’s plan now awaiting approval from the State Gaming Commission, Nas’ Queensbridge project is on track to become one of the largest casinos in the country, spanning 350,000 square feet.
The massive development will also feature:
- A 7,000-seat entertainment venue
- A sports complex led by NBA champion and Queens native Kenny “The Jet” Smith
The casino is projected to open in July 2026, creating over 24,000 jobs and generating $1 million in new revenue in its first year.
Nas Focused on Legacy, Not Beef
While fans continue to hype the nostalgic rap rivalry online, Nas remains focused on the long-term impact of his venture in the borough that shaped him. The rapper’s mindset underscores a transition from hip-hop battles to business and community influence, proving that Queens’ legacy continues to thrive under his leadership.
“This is bigger than any throwback beef,” insiders note. “It’s about building something monumental for Queens and setting a new standard for celebrity-driven development.”
Stay tuned to The Pop Radar for updates on Nas’ Queens casino, upcoming openings, and how hip-hop moguls are reshaping business in New York.
