10/28/2023
RAKIM: Born on January 28, 1968, Rakim is widely regarded as an influential and highly skilled rapper, known for his work as one half of the Golden Age Hip-Hop duo Eric B. & Rakim. His impact on the genre is immeasurable, as he revolutionized MC technique by introducing intricate internal and multisyllabic rhymes, surpassing the simpler rhyme patterns of his predecessors.
Rakim played a pivotal role in the transition from old school flows to more complex ones. He is often credited with inventing the concept of "flow," a term that wasn't commonly used before his emergence. Collaborating with DJ Eric B., Rakim released groundbreaking albums like "Paid in Full" (1987), "Follow the Leader" (1988), "Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em" (1990), and "Don't Sweat the Technique" (1992), which marked significant milestones in Hip-Hop.
In fact, MTV hailed "Paid in Full" as the greatest Hip-Hop album of all time in 2006. Rakim himself was ranked the fourth greatest MC of all time by MTV, and his status as one of the greatest MCs is widely acknowledged within the Hip-Hop community. The Source magazine also recognized him as the number one lyricist of all time in 2012.
Rakim's early life in Wyandanch, New York, shaped his journey into Hip-Hop. Initially aspiring to be a professional football player, he shifted gears after meeting DJ Eric B., choosing a career in music instead. His affiliation with the Nation of Islam, later the Nation of Gods and Earths, influenced his stage name, Rakim Allah, symbolizing his status as the "God MC" due to his acclaimed skills.
His partnership with Eric B. from 1985 to 1992 was iconic, with their albums receiving critical acclaim. Their debut album, "Paid in Full" (1987), featured hit singles like "I Ain't No Joke" and "I Know You Got Soul." The duo's second release, "Follow the Leader" (1988), further solidified their influence in the Hip-Hop world. They reached a peak with "Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em" (1990), known for its diverse sounds and complex lyrics. However, their fourth album, "Don't Sweat the Technique" (1992), marked a turning point in their career, leading to their dissolution due to legal disputes.
Rakim's solo career took off in 1993, culminating in the release of his debut solo album, "The 18th Letter," in 1997. Despite facing legal troubles and label changes, he continued to create music, including the album "The Master" (1999). He spent a significant period at Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment, although creative differences eventually led to their separation.
In 2009, Rakim made a comeback with "The Seventh Seal," featuring singles like "Holy Are You" and "Walk These Streets." Although the album received mixed reviews, it reaffirmed his position in the industry. In 2016, a reunion with Eric B. was announced, keeping fans hopeful for new material. Overall, Rakim's lyrical prowess and his contribution to the evolution of Hip-Hop solidify his legacy as one of the greatest MCs of all time.
