Rakim

Today in Hip Hop History: Rakim Released Solo Debut Album ‘The 18th Letter’ 27 Years Ago

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On this day in Hip-Hop history, veteran MC Rakim released his debut solo LP, The 18th Letter. Coming off of the infamous split of Eric B. and Rakim and a five-year hiatus, this album was surprisingly thorough and left no room to doubt Rakim’s resilience in the ever-changing Hip-Hop world.

Although far removed from his heyday, Rakim delivered an LP that debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200 and stayed true to the technique that made him rich. Tapping-producing legends DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Clark Kent(RIP), and Father Shaheed(RIP), Rakim produced a solid Golden Era album at a time when mafioso rap was taking New York by storm. Peaking only one spot beneath one of New York’s newest brightest stars, Jay-Z, this album proves that Rakim ages like wine regarding his lyrical mastery and microphone prowess.

The album also came with a second disc, The Book of Life, which was an Eric B & Rakim greatest hits album.

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Rakim Claps Back At Festival Crowd For Throwing Bottles Onstage: Watch

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Rakim and Insane Clown Posse are not two acts you’d typically link together. And yet, the former did a show at ICP’s annual Gathering of the Juggalos festival. Rakim had a set of new and old songs in store for the crowd, but things went awry when bottles started being hurled at his head. The rapper made it very clear that he didn’t appreciate the disrespect. He proceeded to stop the show and lay into the ICP audience for putting his safety at risk. Evidently, Rakim is not someone you want to tick off.

“Chill with the motherf**king bottles, man,” Rakim told the audience. He tried to recover the momentum he’d lost after the bottle incident, but it proved fruitless. “For everybody that came to have a good time, make some noise,” he added, to no avail. It was here that the God MC decided to get stern. He laid out his frustration with the incident and made it very clear he wasn’t going to tolerate it again. “‘Cause, you know, I’m not tryna get hit with no f**king bottle, man,” he stated. “I love y’all, but I don’t wanna walk off stage while we having a good time, you know what I mean?”

Read More: Rakim Wants To Make A Sequel To One Of Will Smith’s Classic Singles

Rakim Threatened To Leave The Juggalos Stage

The set was likely not what Rakim had in mind when he first announces his comeback. The rapper put out his first new album since 2009 in July, and spoke endlessly about his desire to prove he still had a musical spark. “The expectations that I not only give myself, but what the people give me,” he explained to Billboard. “I use that as fuel. I’d rather people expect me to succeed than to expect me to fail. I gotta keep doing it at a higher rate because that’s what they expect from me.”

Rakim also talked about the rush he gets from performing in front of a crowd. He told the New York Post that he never thought he’d get the chance to rap into his mid-50s, much less sell out venues. “In one of my rhymes, I said, ‘I’ma move crowds to 2,000 and somethin,” the emcee recalled. “But I had no idea I’d still be here rhyming at 50-something. For me, it ain’t something I could just fall out of love with. It’s who I am.” Hopefully the next show goes better.

Read More: Rakim Thinks Drake Vs. Kendrick Lamar Battle Validated Real Hip Hop

[via]

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John Cena Reveals Surprising Picks For Mount Rushmore Of Rappers

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John Cena used to rap. It feels like a lifetime ago, and in some ways, it was. In the two decades since Cena dropped his debut album, he’s become a household name and a bankable movie star. He doesn’t need music to bolster his fame anymore. That said, he still has a love for the genre. John Cena recently went on the Club Shay Shay podcast, and was asked to break down his four favorite emcees. His Mount Rushmore. His answers were unexpected, but admittedly pretty airtight in terms of logic (no, Logic is not one of his picks).

John Cena knew his answer would be controversial. He tried to get out in front of the inevitable pushback he’d get for excluding certain rappers. “Everyone has their bias,” he noted. “I know the list is gonna incite riots, [but] we all have our bias, our favorites. That’s what makes music special.” Despite his reticence, John Cena took the bait. He told host Shannon Sharpe that New York artists made up the bulk of his Mount Rushmore: Nas, JAY-Z and Rakim. “But I was brought up in East Coast, boom bap,” he explained. “I love wordplay, I love poetry. It’s what I based my [WWE] character on.”

Read More: John Cena Accused Of Participating In Naked “Humiliation Ritual” At The Oscars

John Cena Has Voiced A Desire To Work With Eminem

John Cena’s fourth choice? Eminem. The decision to show Slim Shady love should come as no surprise to longtime Cena fans. The wrestler-turned-actor has been an admirer of Em’s since day one. He even tried to manifest a remix to his iconic theme song with the Detroit rapper. “He’s one of the most gifted, prolific poets I’ve ever had the chance to listen to,” John Cena told Esquire in 2022. “I think if you gave him this music.. I would like to think he would completely put me to shame by giving it his own Eminem touch.”

John Cena is obviously more famous as a wrestler than a rapper. That said, he claims the latter saved his wrestling career. During a 2023 appearance on the Whiskey Ginger podcast, Cena claimed that his raps actually kept him employed. He claimed that Stephanie McMahon, daughter of WWE executive chairman Vince McMahon, was impressed with Cena’s rhymes and gave him more screen time as a result. “She was the head of the writing team,” the wrestler recalled. “And she was like, ‘Well, make something up about me right now.’” The rest, as they say, is history.

Read More: Shannon Sharpe’s Kendrick Lamar And Drake Stance Leads To An Admission From John Cena

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Rakim Ends 15-Year Album Drought With “G.O.Ds NETWORK – REB7RTH”

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Even though New York City multi-talent Rakim does not command the same presence as he once did in the 90s, getting a new album from him is something we will never turn down. Back in May, Tha God MC announced the end of his decade-and-a-half long drought on social media, “July 26th – “Rebirth” Rakim new album Produced by Tha God Mc himself…. #Rakim #MasterKilla #GOTTi MY GOD……”. Following that exciting reveal, Rakim would deliver the lead single for G.O.Ds NETWORK – REB7RTH, “BE ILL”, alongside Kurupt and Masta Killa.

While the track was spectacular on its first few listens, it might be even better now that it is the tape’s opener. It’s a celebratory moment for Rakim as he certainly has achieved his dreams of being “ill” and “real” now that he is over 30 years deep into his career. There are loads of winning performances from the main attraction, but his guests are holding their own, too. Speaking of which, Rakim was able to score posthumous verses from Nipsey Hussle and DMX, as well as others from Snoop Dogg, B.G., 38 Spesh and more. Wrapping up this seven-track project with a tight bow are the head-nodding instrumentals. Each one presents a feeling of wonder and awe, making it clear that Rakim’s got plenty left to go.

Read More: Will Smith, Russ And Jaden Promote Self Belief On “Work Of Art” Single

G.O.Ds NETWORK – REB7RTH– Rakim

G.O.Ds NETWORK – REB7RTH Tracklist:

  1. BE ILL with Kurupt, Masta Killa
  2. NOW IS THE TIME with B.G., Hus KingPin, Compton Menace
  3. LOVE IS THE MESSAGE with Nipsey Hussle, Planet Asia, Louis King, Snoop Dogg, Sally Green, Kobe Honeycutt
  4. GOD’S PLAYGROUND with 38 Spesh, DMX, Fred the Godson, Skyzoo
  5. PENDULUM SWING with KXNG Crooked, Canibus, La The Darkman, Chino XL
  6. INTERNATIONAL with Kool G Rap, Joell Ortiz, Tristate
  7. SIGN OF SE7EN with Prodigy, X-Raided, Method Man, Big Twins

Read More: Cam’ron Claims Chicago And Louisiana Produce The Best Rap Lyricists

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Rakim Thinks Drake Vs. Kendrick Lamar Battle Validated Real Hip Hop

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If you looked up “hip hop” in the dictionary, there’s a decent chance Rakim would be the picture example. The rapper revolutionized the genre in the 1980s. He laid the groundwork for future icons like Nas, JAY-Z and Kendrick Lamar, and can still hold his own on the mic. He just dropped a new album, in fact. Rakim has discussed numerous topics during the press tour for the album, but the one everyone was curious to hear about was Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar. Rakim finally shared his thoughts on the pop culture phenomenon of 2024, and he didn’t disappoint.

Firstly, Rakim made a point giving both Drake and Kendrick Lamar their flowers. He appreciated the fact that both artists were willing to accept the challenge. He also praised them for putting commerciality on the line for the sake of the art. “A lot of people in that position won’t accept no challenge, because they got too much to lose,” he told Billboard. “So, it was dope that these brothers put the mainstream success down and said, ‘Yeah, let’s do it.’” Rakim conceded that Drake is at the top of his game as an artist. That said, he made it clear that the battle ultimately spoke to a larger cultural divide. As far as he’s concerned, Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar was mainstream vs. real hip-hop. And the latter won out.

Read More: Rakim, Kurupt, & Masta Killa Are Lyrical Wizards On “BE ILL”

Rakim Thinks Their Battle Was Important For The Genre

“It showed the difference between real hip-hop and mainstream hip-hop,” Rakim posited. “Younger artists now know that there’s a difference.” The rapper felt that these differing sides of the genre had been less defined in recent years. Lamar’s victory, however, restored a sense of balance, and served to remind rappers that they can pursue one style over the other. “A lot of them didn’t understand that,” he asserted. “They just listened to the majority, not knowing that people don’t categorize what they were hearing as real hip-hop.” Rakim is ultimately happy with the outcome of the battle.

Rakim told Billboard that he has newfound respect for both Drake and Kendrick Lamar. He feels like their battle helped to restore balance to the genre, in addition to proving the talent of both men. “The battle was very needed for the genre,” he added. “I tip my hat to them brothers. Let’s just hope that it stays to the music.” Rakim has repeatedly praised K. Dot in the past, but it’s a testament to his love for the genre that he gave props to the 6 God as well.

Read More: Rakim Wants To Make A Sequel To One Of Will Smith’s Classic Singles

[via]

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Rakim Releases First New Project In 15 Years ‘G.O.D.’S Network (Reb7rth)’, New Video “Love Is The Message”

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Hip-hop legend Rakim is breaking new ground with his new project, G.O.D.’S NETWORK (REB7RTH), by flexing his skills both on the mic and behind the boards.  Widely lauded as the best lyricist of all time, The God MC himself is blessing the culture with the next step in his historic career; and his first project in 15 years.  G.O.D.’S NETWORK (REB7RTH) is now available.

“I feel like the battery in my back has been reenergized,” Rakim said about his new project, which arrives nearly four decades after the release of his classic debut with Eric B., Paid In Full. Since then, he’s continued to shape the landscape and culture of hip-hop as we know it, inspiring rising artists with his hype live shows and incredible studio albums. And while he’s produced some of his previous work—notably “Don’t Sweat the Technique,” “Juice (Know The Ledge),” and “Paid In Full”—this feels like new territory for the 18th Letter, whose production and scratching talents are nothing short of remarkable.

G.O.D.’S NETWORK (REB7RTH) is proof that Rakim is truly one of the most special artists we’ve known, not just in hip-hop, but all of music. You can tell he feels that level of praise when speaking about the genesis of the album. “Having the ability to showcase my talents behind the boards, coupled with the elite lyricism the world already knows and gives me infinite praise for, alongside some of the best talents to ever do it is truly a blessing and for that I am humbled,” Rakim declared.

The album’s first single, “Be Ill,” is the perfect introduction, as it pairs Rakim’s raw rhymes and head-nodding production with slick guest features from Kurupt and Masta Killa. Elsewhere, Rakim slows it down for the soulful “Love Is The Message,” which features Nipsey Hussle, Planet Asia, Louis King, Snoop Dogg, Sally Green, Kobe Honeycutt, and the LA Grand Choir. And then there’s the chest-thumping “International,” a straight-up slapper with hard-hitting rhymes from Kool G. Rap, Tristate, and Joell Ortiz.

The post Rakim Releases First New Project In 15 Years ‘G.O.D.’S Network (Reb7rth)’, New Video “Love Is The Message” first appeared on The Source.

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Rakim Wants To Make A Sequel To One Of Will Smith’s Classic Singles

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Rakim and Will Smith are peers. In genre, if not in style. Rakim is considered to be one of the most elite lyricists of all time. Will Smith, on the other hand, was the family-friendly pop star. Both men achieved massive success in the 1980s and 90s, but never really crossed paths. That is, until a recent interaction on Instagram. Rakim stumbled upon a video of him and Will Smith interacting during a Grammy special, and was so pleased with what he heard that he suggested they collab on a new song.

The interaction came about during A Grammy Salute to 50 Years of Hip Hop in 2023. Will Smith saw Rakim backstage, and revealed that he was trying to copy the rapper on his 1990 single “Summertime.” “I was absolutely trying to sound like you on ‘Summertime,’” he gushed to the God emcee. “‘Cause I had been screaming all night, and I couldn’t get my ‘happy-go-lucky’ high voice.” He then recalled that his producer, DJ Jazzy Jeff, suggested he do a Rakim impression. “[The producer] just said, ‘Yo, just gimme that Rakim sh*t.’”

Read More: Jada Pinkett Smith Pays Tribute To Will Smith For Being A “Devoted” Dad On Father’s Day

Rakim Was Flattered That Will Smith Emulated His Style

The suggestion worked. “Summertime” won a Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group and peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Will Smith reposted the heartwarming exchange to IG on July 23, and Rakim decided to capitalize on the moment. He took to the comment section and suggested him and Smith join forces on a sequel song. “Peace Will! Keep rockin bro, it’s time for SUMMERTIME PT 2 wit me on it,” he wrote. Rakim’s timing could not be better. Will Smith recently confirmed that he’s in the studio, and working on his first new album since 2005.

Smith told Black Film Allies that he’s spent the last year and a half experimenting with new sounds. He also told the channel that his album will be the most personal body of work he’s released to date. Given what the actor has been through since the infamous Oscars slap, it makes sense. We don’t see why the actor couldn’t slip in a Rakim feature in the tracklist. “Summertime, Pt. 2” would be an extremely ironic collab, since fans have spent years theorizing that Rakim ghostwrote the song for Smith.

Read More: Will Smith And Martin Lawrence Reveal Their G.O.A.T. Rappers

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Rakim Releases New Single “Now Is The Time” Feat. B.G., Hus Kingpin, and Compton Menace

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Rakim Releases New Single "Now Is The Time" Feat. B.G., Hus Kingpin, and Compton Menace

Rakim, hailed as “The God Emcee,” has announced his first new project in 15 years, G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth). This highly anticipated album, set to release on July 26, 2024, showcases Rakim’s extensive talent in lyricism and production, marking his first project entirely self-produced.

The album’s lead single, “Be Ill,” features notable artists Kurupt and Masta Killa and has already garnered significant attention with its powerful lyrics and dynamic video. Following this, Rakim released the second single, “Now Is The Time,” featuring B.G., Hus Kingpin, and Compton Menace. This track is now available on all major streaming platforms, further building excitement for the full album release.

G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth) is set to include an impressive lineup of collaborations featuring the likes of Nipsey Hussle, DMX, Method Man, Prodigy, 38 Spesh, Skyzoo, Kool G Rap, Joell Ortiz, KXNG Crooked, and Planet Asia, among others. This extensive list of featured artists promises a diverse and rich listening experience, blending classic and contemporary hip-hop influences.

Rakim’s return to the music scene with G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth) is a momentous occasion for fans worldwide. The album will be available in multiple formats, including Digital, CD, Cassette, and Vinyl (both 12” and 7”), ensuring accessibility for all music enthusiasts. Fans can purchase the album through www.rakimpresents.com, courtesy of Holy Toledo Productions, Compound Interest Entertainment, RRC Music, and 1332 Records.

The post Rakim Releases New Single “Now Is The Time” Feat. B.G., Hus Kingpin, and Compton Menace first appeared on The Source.

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Rakim Partners With Web3 Music Platform Gala Music For Exclusive Single Releases From Upcoming Album ‘G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth)’

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Iconic MC, Rakim is set to make a groundbreaking return to the music scene after 15 years with his highly anticipated new album, G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth). Partnering with cutting-edge Web3 music platform Gala Music, select songs from Rakim’s album release is available exclusively on Gala Music today before
hitting digital streaming platforms (DSPs) July 26th. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the fusion of music and technology, offering fans a unique and immersive listening experience.

“Partnering with Gala Music allows me to reach my fans in an innovative way, combining the best of music and modern technology. I’m excited to share my newest tracks with my loyal fans for the first time on web3,” says Rakim.

The exclusive release includes three new tracks, minted and listenable on Gala Music. These tracks went on sale Friday, July 5 at 1 PM PT. Additionally, seven instrumentals from the album will be released exclusively on Gala Music on July 12th.

The three exclusive tracks available on Gala Music are:
“Love is the Message”: described as “one of the most beautiful and complete pieces ever created” in the modern hip-hop landscape, showcasing Rakim’s vocal and production talents. The track features the likes of Nipsey Hussle (RIP), Planet Asia, Gala Music’s Louis King, Snoop Dogg, and a choir led by Sally Green and Kobe Honeycutt. This powerful piece, backed by a violin quartet, sends a poignant reminder that love conquers all amidst the violence and crime plaguing the streets.

“Gods Playground”: a thought-provoking piece demonstrating a roller coaster of emotions, with Rakim taking on vocal, scratches, and production duties. Featuring underground legends .38 Spesh, Fred the Godson (RIP), and Skyzoo, the track focuses on the importance of maintaining composure through life’s obstacles to achieve true success. The song concludes with a heartfelt prayer from the late DMX (RIP), reminding listeners of his profound impact on the hip-hop worl

“Pendulum Swing”: this track marks Rakim’s first-ever fully orchestrated posse cut, featuring a stellar lineup including Kxng Crooked (Slaughterhouse), LA the Darkman (Wu-Tang), Caninus (Refugee Camp), and Chino XL. With Rakim handling vocal, scratches, and production duties, this track delivers a powerful display of lyrical mastery. Hip-hop enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the lyrical dominance showcased in this track.

Rakim’s partnership with Gala Music represents an organic bridge between generations, showcasing how a pioneering artist can continue to innovate and connect with new audiences through non-traditional distribution channels. This collaboration highlights the attraction of legacy artists furthering their career by embracing new technologies and platforms like Gala Music, which pave the way for future musical endeavors and unprecedented fan experiences.

The post Rakim Partners With Web3 Music Platform Gala Music For Exclusive Single Releases From Upcoming Album ‘G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth)’ first appeared on The Source.

The post Rakim Partners With Web3 Music Platform Gala Music For Exclusive Single Releases From Upcoming Album ‘G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth)’ appeared first on The Source.

Rakim Partners With Gala Music For Exclusive Web3 Releases

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Rakim

Iconic MC, Rakim is set to make a groundbreaking return to the music scene after 15 years with his highly anticipated new album, G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth). Partnering with cutting-edge Web3 music platform Gala Music, select songs from Rakim’s album release is available exclusively on Gala Music today before hitting digital streaming platforms (DSPs) July 26th. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the fusion of music and technology, offering fans a unique and immersive listening experience.

“Partnering with Gala Music allows me to reach my fans in an innovative way, combining the best of music and modern technology. I’m excited to share my newest tracks with my loyal fans for the first time on web3,” says Rakim. 

The exclusive release includes three new tracks that are available to stream now on Gala Music starting today. These tracks will go on sale on Friday, July 5 at 1 PM PT. Additionally, seven instrumentals from the album will be released exclusively on Gala Music on July 12th, available indefinitely.

The three exclusive tracks available on Gala Music are:

“Love is the Message”: described as “one of the most beautiful and complete pieces ever created” in the modern hip-hop landscape, showcasing Rakim’s vocal and production talents. The track features the likes of Nipsey Hussle (RIP), Planet Asia, Gala Music’s Louis King, Snoop Dogg, and a choir led by Sally Green and Kobe Honeycutt. This powerful piece, backed by a violin quartet, sends a poignant reminder that love conquers all amidst the violence and crime plaguing the streets.

“Gods Playground”: a thought-provoking piece demonstrating a roller coaster of emotions, with Rakim taking on vocal, scratches, and production duties. Featuring underground legends .38 Spesh, Fred the Godson (RIP), and Skyzoo, the track focuses on the importance of maintaining composure through life’s obstacles to achieve true success. The song concludes with a heartfelt prayer from the late DMX (RIP), reminding listeners of his profound impact on the hip-hop world.

“Pendulum Swing”: this track marks Rakim’s first-ever fully orchestrated posse cut, featuring a stellar lineup including Kxng Crooked (Slaughterhouse), LA the Darkman (Wu-Tang), Caninus (Refugee Camp), and Chino XL. With Rakim handling vocal, scratches, and production duties, this track delivers a powerful display of lyrical mastery. Hip-hop enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the lyrical dominance showcased in this track.

Rakim’s partnership with Gala Music represents an organic bridge between generations, showcasing how a pioneering artist can continue to innovate and connect with new audiences through non-traditional distribution channels. This collaboration highlights the attraction of legacy artists furthering their career by embracing new technologies and platforms like Gala Music, which pave the way for future musical endeavors and unprecedented fan experiences.

The post Rakim Partners With Gala Music For Exclusive Web3 Releases first appeared on The Source.

The post Rakim Partners With Gala Music For Exclusive Web3 Releases appeared first on The Source.