Rakim is one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history, a rapper who redefined what was possible with lyricism and delivery. Before he emerged, most rap flows were relatively straightforward, following simple rhythmic patterns. Rakim changed that completely, introducing a level of complexity that had never been heard before. His intricate internal rhymes, multi-syllabic wordplay, and laid-back but commanding delivery elevated hip-hop from party music to a serious art form.
When Rakim and his DJ partner Eric B. dropped Eric B. Is President in 1986, it was clear that hip-hop had entered a new era. Then came Paid in Full in 1987, an album that is now considered one of the greatest of all time. Rakim’s approach to rhyming was on a different level. While other MCs of the time often used simple couplets, Rakim layered his lyrics with internal rhymes, unexpected pauses, and a jazz-like sense of timing that made his flow feel effortless but deeply calculated. He didn’t just rap over beats—he treated his voice like an instrument, weaving through the rhythm with precision.
One of Rakim’s most defining characteristics was his ability to deliver intricate bars while maintaining a calm and almost hypnotic tone. In an era where rappers were often shouting their lyrics with high energy, Rakim’s smooth, almost conversational style stood out. He showed that power in hip-hop didn’t always come from volume—it came from skill. His lyrics were more than just braggadocio; they were poetic, filled with clever metaphors, deep introspection, and philosophical musings that made listeners rewind just to catch every word.
Tracks like I Ain’t No Joke, Follow the Leader, and Microphone Fiend demonstrated his mastery of the craft. He wasn’t just rapping to ride the beat; he was bending and shaping words in ways that forced producers to rethink how beats were made. His influence can be seen in nearly every lyricist who came after him. Artists like Nas, Jay-Z, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar have all cited Rakim as a major inspiration, recognizing that his style transformed rap from a rhythmic chant into an intricate, intellectual expression.
Beyond just his technical ability, Rakim’s presence in hip-hop signaled that the genre was evolving. He brought a sense of depth and maturity to rap that helped solidify its legitimacy as an art form. His impact was so profound that even decades later, his influence can still be heard in the most lyrically skilled rappers in the game.
Rakim didn’t just change the way people rapped—he changed the way people listened. He challenged audiences to engage with hip-hop on a deeper level, to appreciate the craftsmanship behind the words, and to recognize rap as more than just entertainment, but as a powerful form of poetry. In doing so, he set the standard for every MC who wanted to be considered great.
