About
Rakim (pronounced rah-KIM) (Born William Michael Griffin Jr. on January 28, 1968 in Long Island, New York, USA) is an American rapper and pioneer of the musical genre of hip hop. He is consistently cited as one of the most skilled (and top amongst the most influential) MCs of all time due to his exceptional flow and complex lyrical craftsmanship, he revolutionized hip-hop lyricism with his complex flow, elaborate metaphors and rapid delivery. Together with Eric B, he released a number of classic albums between 1987 and 1992. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- east coast hip hop
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Rakim so famous?
- Rakim is so famous because he is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative MCs in the history of hip-hop. Emerging in the mid-1980s as one half of the legendary duo Eric B. & Rakim, he redefined rap lyricism with his complex rhyme schemes, intricate wordplay, and smooth, laid-back delivery. Rakim's impact on hip-hop culture is immeasurable; he pioneered the use of internal rhymes and multisyllabic structures, raising the bar for rappers who followed. Classic albums like "Paid in Full"
- What is the meaning of Rakim?
- The meaning of "Rakim"
- What is Rakim doing now?
- As of 2024, Rakim remains active in the music industry, continuing to perform, tour, and collaborate with other artists. While he is best known for his classic work with Eric B., Rakim has maintained a strong solo presence, regularly appearing at major hip-hop festivals, special events, and anniversary celebrations of iconic albums like "Paid in Full."
- Did Rakim ever swear?
- Rakim is known for his clean and sophisticated lyrical style, and throughout most of his career, he has notably avoided swearing or using explicit language in his rhymes. This deliberate choice set him apart from many of his contemporaries and underscored his focus on complex wordplay, storytelling, and philosophical themes rather than shock value or profanity. Rakim's decision to keep his lyrics free from swearing was influenced by his personal values and desire to appeal to a broader audience, including younger listeners. While there may be occasional mild expletives in his extensive catalog, explicit language is exceptionally rare in his body of work. This approach has earned him respect within the hip-hop community as an artist who relies on skill and substance rather than sensationalism. Rakim's clean style has contributed to his reputation as a role model and innovator, further cementing his legacy as one of rap's most respected and influential figures.
- What is Rakim known for?
- Rakim is known for revolutionizing rap lyricism and setting new standards in the art of MCing. As one half of Eric B. & Rakim, he introduced complex rhyme patterns, internal rhymes, and a sophisticated, smooth flow that was unprecedented in the genre during the 1980s. Rakim's debut album "Paid in Full"