Nas marks 40th birthday with star-studded party

Nas marked his 40th birthday by throwing a star-studded party in New York City on Thursday night (12Sep13).

The hip-hop star, who reaches the milestone on Saturday (14Sep13), was joined by friends including Mariah Carey, Jermaine Dupri, model/TV host Tyson Beckford and British singer Estelle for the lavish bash at Avenue NYC in Manhattan.

Actress Olivia Munn and her boyfriend Joel Kinnaman were also at the party, during which Nas was presented with a number of gifts, including a box of pricey cigars, booze and jewelry, and he later took to the microphone to express his thanks, telling the crowd, "Shout out to everyone here. I thank you from the f**king bottom of my brave heart. I thank you sincerely. God bless you all. Continue to live long!"

Carey posted a number of pictures from the party on her Twitter.com page, writing, "Fun in the city... Nas's 40th."

Nas continued the celebrations on Friday (13Sep13) by heading to Las Vegas, where he was joined by pals including Sean 'Diddy' Combs for a special dinner on his birthday eve.