Rakim, the iconic rapper from Eric B. and Rakim, reflects on his 40 years in hip-hop, discussing his mentorship with Marley Marl and how his career has evolved in his 50s. The podcast explores Rakim's unique flow and intricate rhymes, his early friendship and collaboration with Biz Markie, and his craftsmanship in rhyme writing. It also delves into his challenges while signed to Aftermath and upcoming live performances.
Rakim's innovative lyrical approach revolutionized hip-hop by introducing intricate flows and groundbreaking content.
Rakim's musical style was profoundly influenced by his family's musical background, exposing him to jazz and R&B.
Deep dives
Evolution of Early Hip-Hop to Modern Hip-Hop
Hip-hop's evolution from its early roots to modern times is explored through the career of legendary artist, Rakim. The transition is illustrated by comparing the classic style of early rap songs like 'Five Minutes of Funk' to the more intricate and innovative approach introduced by Rakim in songs such as 'I Ain't No Joke'. The shift from conventional to groundbreaking lyrical content and flow is highlighted, showcasing Rakim's influence on the genre.
Influence of Family and Musical Background
Rakim's musical journey is deeply rooted in his family environment, where music played a significant role. Growing up in a musically inclined household with siblings who were musicians, his exposure to diverse genres like jazz and R&B shaped his unique style. The narrative reveals the impact of his background on developing a profound understanding of rhythms and structures that influenced his approach to rap.
Artistic Process and Creativity
Rakim's meticulous approach to crafting his rhymes and flow is highlighted, showcasing the depth of his artistic process. Drawing inspiration from diverse musical influences, including jazz compositions by artists like John Coltrane, Rakim focused on creating a distinct style by avoiding repetitive cadences in his rhymes. His dedication to treating his lyrics as instruments within the music reflects his innovative and intricate creative mindset.
Balancing Personal Life and Music Career
The podcast delves into Rakim's balancing act between personal life and career, emphasizing the importance of being a devoted father and artist. Rakim's commitment to maintaining stability, spending time with his children, and prioritizing family responsibilities defines his mature perspective on life and music. The discussion portrays Rakim's journey as a testament to navigating success in both personal and professional realms.
This September is Rap Month at Bullseye - we're celebrating 50 years of hip-hop with a full month rappers. First up: Rakim! He changed the rap game forever. He's one half of the groundbreaking hip-hop duo, Eric B. and Rakim. And a legendary solo rapper in his own right. On Bullseye, Rakim kicks off Rap Month by looking back at his almost 40 years in hip-hop. He gets into how he met Eric B. and his mentorship with Marley Marl. Plus, how his career has changed now that he's in his 50s.