Rakim, born William Michael Griffin Jr. on January 28, 1968, is a legendary emcee whose influence on the hip-hop genre is indelible. Often hailed as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Rakim's career skyrocketed in the late 1980s as one half of the influential duo Eric B. & Rakim. His intricate lyrics, complex internal rhymes, and calm yet assertive delivery revolutionized the art of emceeing. Rakim's sophisticated wordplay and lyrical depth transformed the craft of rap, setting a new standard for future generations. His work has consistently displayed a deep connection to the spiritual and intellectual themes, which is evident in his solo projects as well as his collaborations.

Following the dissolution of Eric B. & Rakim in 1992, Rakim pursued a solo career, releasing a string of acclaimed albums and singles. His debut solo album, "The 18th Letter," released in 1997, received critical praise and commercial success. After a considerable hiatus, Rakim returned with "The Seventh Seal" in 2009, an album that continued to showcase his lyrical prowess and philosophical outlook. Over the years, even as he released singles like "Walk" and "Don't Call Me," Rakim remained a respected figure in the hip-hop community, lauded for his thought-provoking content and his profound influence on the evolution of the genre. Even when not actively releasing new music, Rakim's legacy persists in the work of countless artists who cite him as a key inspiration.

Genres

East Coast Hip Hop

Related Artists

Nas

Public Enemy

KRS-One

LL COOL J

Big Daddy Kane

The Notorious B.I.G.

A Tribe Called Quest

DJ Premier

Gang Starr

Common

Eric B. & Rakim

Slick Rick

Latest Release

G.O.Ds NETWORK - REB7RTH

Rakim

Album - 7 Tracks - Released July 26, 2024