#80shiphop

In Full Gear  |  ‘88

Rakim performing at the Paid Dues hip hop festival at the Nokia Theatre in New York City. Government Name: William Michael Griffin Jr. Additional Known Names: Rakim, The God MC, Rakim Allah Date of Birth (DOB): January 28, 1968 Background: Rakim, born William Michael Griffin Jr. in Wyandanch, Long Island, New York, is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. Known for his complex lyricism, innovative flow, and spiritual themes, Rakim helped to redefine the art of rapping in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His work with DJ Eric B., as part of the legendary duo Eric B. & Rakim, set new standards for MCing and production in hip-hop, earning him the title of “The God MC.” Rakim was introduced to music at an early age. Growing up in a musical family, he was influenced by jazz, R&B, and early hip-hop. His unique approach to rapping, which combined intricate rhyme schemes, internal rhymes, and a calm, steady delivery, set him apart from his contemporaries. Rakim’s lyricism was also deeply influenced by his study of Islam, specifically the teachings of the Five Percent Nation, which is reflected in his spiritual and introspective lyrics. In 1986, Rakim teamed up with DJ Eric B. to form Eric B. & Rakim. Their debut album, Paid in Full (1987), is considered a landmark in hip-hop history. The album’s groundbreaking production, characterized by complex sampling and deep basslines, provided the perfect backdrop for Rakim’s sophisticated lyricism. Tracks like “Eric B. Is President” and “I Ain’t No Joke” showcased Rakim’s ability to weave intricate, multi-syllabic rhymes with a laid-back, almost conversational delivery. The title track, “Paid in Full,” became an anthem of ambition and success, and the album’s influence on the genre is still felt today. Eric B. & Rakim followed up with Follow the Leader (1988), which featured even more complex rhymes and innovative production. The album’s title track, along with songs like “Microphone Fiend” and “Lyrics of Fury,” cemented Rakim’s reputation as a master lyricist and one of the most technically skilled MCs in hip-hop. His ability to combine abstract concepts, vivid imagery, and intricate wordplay set a new standard for lyrical excellence. The duo continued their success with Let the Rhythm Hit ’Em (1990) and Don’t Sweat the Technique (1992), both of which received critical acclaim. However, creative differences and contractual disputes led to their split in the early 1990s. Despite the challenges, Rakim’s solo career began in 1997 with the release of The 18th Letter. The album was well-received, praised for its return to the lyrical and spiritual depth that Rakim had become known for. Rakim has often been called “The God MC” for his almost mythic status in hip-hop. His influence on the genre is immeasurable; he transformed the role of the MC from simply an entertainer to a poet and philosopher. His style has influenced countless artists, including Nas, Jay-Z, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar, all of whom have cited him as a major inspiration. Rakim’s ability to fuse complex rhyme schemes with profound content has earned him a place as one of hip-hop’s true legends. Despite a relatively low output compared to some of his peers, Rakim’s body of work remains timeless. His lyrical innovations, particularly his use of internal rhymes, multi-syllabic patterns, and conversational flow, continue to be studied and admired by fans and artists alike. Rakim’s contributions to hip-hop have been recognized with numerous accolades, and he remains a respected and revered figure in the culture. https://youtu.be/iU0_cYjm8HE?si=L7wKBe2ffsDisbFX Known Collaborators: - Eric B.: DJ and producer, Rakim’s partner in the legendary duo Eric B. & Rakim, responsible for producing some of the most influential tracks in hip-hop history. - Dr. Dre: Collaborated on the unreleased Oh, My God album sessions in the mid-1990s. - Jody Watley: Featured Rakim on the hit single “Friends,” bridging hip-hop and pop in the late 1980s. - Jay-Z, Kanye West, Nas: Collaborated on “The Watcher 2” and have often cited Rakim as a major influence on their lyrical style. Discography: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DZ06evO2et8xC?si=ovvVxsClQkOI1s2vi-BRIg With Eric B.: - Paid in Full (1987): - "Eric B. Is President," "I Ain’t No Joke," "Paid in Full" - Follow the Leader (1988): - "Follow the Leader," "Microphone Fiend," "Lyrics of Fury" - Let the Rhythm Hit ’Em (1990): - "Let the Rhythm Hit ’Em," "In the Ghetto," "Mahogany" - Don’t Sweat the Technique (1992): - "Don’t Sweat the Technique," "Know the Ledge," "What’s on Your Mind?" Solo Albums: - The 18th Letter (1997): - "Guess Who’s Back," "It’s Been a Long Time," "The 18th Letter" - The Master (1999): - "When I B on the Mic," "Flow Forever," "It’s the R" - The Seventh Seal (2009): - "Holy Are You," "Walk These Streets," "How to Emcee" Hit Singles: - "Eric B. Is President" - "I Ain’t No Joke" - "Paid in Full" - "Microphone Fiend" - "Follow the Leader" - "Don’t Sweat the Technique" - "Guess Who’s Back" - "When I B on the Mic" - "Holy Are You" Awards and Recognition: - VH1 Hip Hop Honors: Honored for his contributions to hip-hop and his role in redefining the genre. - Source Awards: Named Lyricist of the Year and recognized as one of the greatest MCs of all time. - Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Inducted as a member of Eric B. & Rakim, recognizing their influence on the genre. Sub-Genres Known For: - East Coast Hip-Hop, Golden Age Hip-Hop, Conscious Rap, Boom Bap https://youtu.be/M34OelgSlKI?si=9TqwhbyUGqQvKYXf Legacy and Influence: Rakim’s legacy is immense, as he is credited with revolutionizing the art of rapping. His innovative use of rhyme patterns, wordplay, and thematic depth elevated the genre and inspired countless artists to push the boundaries of what hip-hop could be. Often regarded as the “God MC,” Rakim’s influence can be heard in the work of many of the greatest rappers who followed him. His music remains a benchmark for lyrical excellence and continues to be celebrated as some of the best in the history of hip-hop. Read the full article

3 Feet High and Rising  |  ‘89

Looking forward to looking this through 🤙 #beastieboys #beastieboyslicensetoilltour1987 #beastieboyslicensedtoill #licensedtoill #80shiphop #hiphop #hiphopbook #beastieboysmagazine https://www.instagram.com/p/CoYEcGqSi-Z/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Most knew Malcolm Mclaren for discovering and managing Punk Rock bands like The New York Dolls, The Sex Pistols and Bow Wow Wow but what a lot people didn’t know that he was also a truly hip hop head back in the 80’s/90’s …