I am a 51 year old white dude who listened to this dope ass shit in high school in San Antonio,Texas in 1988 and I still listen to it till this day. I was down with BDP, Public Enemy, DMC, Tribe, EPMD, Kool Moe Dee and LL. Even before NWA hit the scene. Some of the best tunes EVER! Rakim is the GOAT. Rhythm, poetry, and knowledge. Drop the mic.
@@PRSPR Money birthed the entire new school of rap. They don't refer to him as the god emcee for nothin'. Indeed this song is basically the template for the way Eminem structures his rhymes.
You all probably dont give a shit but does someone know a tool to log back into an instagram account? I stupidly lost my account password. I appreciate any assistance you can offer me
For myself and all of my friends who were teens in the late 80’s, Rakim was like a super hero. We would hang on every verse word by word. He was so far ahead of everyone else. Without doubt the greatest ever imo. He changed the game and not many have done so.
I like how you noticed his lyrical density when you say he doesn't waste a single line. He would definitely take you to school but put out straight bangers at the same time. What more can I say about Rakim that hasn't already been said by others here? The God MC...
Thank you very much for all your support, it really means a lot! Also thank you for guiding me on this journey, y’all putting me on to so much heat 🔥🔥🔥
@@PRSPR Keep the up great reactions, All respect to you, My nephew and his friends play today’s hip hop for an hour , I like some of the tracks I don’t mind the mumbling rappers it’s their style, Then I play hip hop from the 80s whodunni, kurtis blow, public enemy big daddy Kane, 90s like Gangstarr, tribe called quest, epmd, cl smooth and Pete rock, Thier minds are blown, They love it.
Eric B and Rakim- Don't Sweat the Technique Eric B and Rakim- As the Rhyme Goes On Eric B and Rakim- Mahogany Eric B and Rakim- Microphone Fiend 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This is my generation i was 17vrs old when this came out we were all about knowledge of self ,the 5 percenters, the f-o-i, the x-Clan This is where nas the wu tang black thought all come from
That’s really dope, I remember seeing an interview of Lord Jamar talking about his involvement with the 5 percenters. I definitely need to read up on it along with the other groups you listed.
Thank you! I agree, his message is still relevant and his songs still slap. That’s crazy he entered the music industry that young, that’s very impressive
Those are NEW YORK beats. Beats for Subways, crowded streets, and skyscrapers. This was back when NYC had a sound. Back when hiphop was still the city. 1988… it was still spreading around the country.
He doesn't waste a single line just for the sake of a rhyme. Bruh, that's a bar right there lol! You couldn't describe Rakim more accurate than what you said there. That's why he's the God MC. Before him brothers rhymed cat with hat. He was the first to use internal rhymes, metaphores and similes, rhyming multi syllables. Also before him nobody been dropping knowledge beyond what's commonly known in their songs. It was mostly being just braggadocious and doing party raps
He wasn't the 1st to do that, but he was the best to do it. If you go back a few years, Kool Moe Dee created that style of rhyming. Especially on his song " Turn It Up"
@@johnbooker7153 Peace! You just won the $64,000 question my brother…you’re the only other person that I’ve read who knows this. As a matter of fact, Public Enemy cuts the chorus from that joint, “Turn it Up” and it becomes part of the hook in “Bring the Noise” (1987)….genius..
@@bigb2494 KMD had different flows; however he started internal rhyming on wax. The concept of internal rhyming had never been implemented on wax before Turn It Up”. KMD is the Father of the brainiac style of emceeing….Think Kool Keith also..
Rakim is equal parts instrument and lyricist, blending and bending words with a seamless lava flow. What feels like a kiss is a punch- he's that gifted. This track personifies the poetic Art of Hip-Hop. Many may follow but the leader leads.
@@PRSPR Thanks bro. I know I have requested a number of Rakim tracks, however I think "Holy Are You" epitomises lyrical prowess and impeccable production. When time permits. Blessings. ✌❤
RAKIM THE GOD came from Strong Island "Wyandanch" Eric B from Brooklyn in 1986 " My Melody" dropped the album "Paid in Full" dropped in 1987. The "R" 🐐 changed the way rappers were rhyming till "Nas" last great song in 2001 "Made you look" after that to me was the end of great lyricist. Good looking out glad to know young brothers are doing their homework and keeping our great culture of Hip Hop alive...PEACE!✌️
I agree with Flatbush, I love to see young cats appreciating what I grew up on. If you like bars, I suggest you check out Kool G Rap’s stuff. He was really the very first gangsta rapper. Big Daddy Kane too. As far as conscious rap, that was the best time for hip hop. Knowledge and consciousness in the black community was really getting understanding, they couldn’t get in school. Respect!
Thank you fam! I heard a few of Kool G Rap’s stuff but it’s mainly his recent work like his project with 38 Spesh, I definitely need to check out more of his older stuff along with Big Daddy Kane. That makes sense, thanks for sharing those points with me fam
Yes!!! Rakim was waaaaay ahead of his time and he STILL got it. Check out his appearance on NPR TINY DESK CONCERT not too long ago. He’s a professional live MC. If you did a review it prob would not get blocked.
I would do a reaction to that but I heard other people that reacted to NPR Tiny Desk Concert got their video blocked and a copyright strike so I unfortunately don’t want to take that risk. But I’ll for sure check it out and get back to you on what I think
@PRSPR ... the 5% Universal Flag is shown on the back of Rakim's jacket... back in the '80s when this album was released I didn't even know what it was, until around '91/'92... this dude was way ahead of his time
My favorite rapper of all time. I got the same feeling in '88 as you did just now. Also got "Mission Impossible" vibe from the beat/production. Also his supreme rhyming skills displayed here were to let you know he was the master and if you were going to try to match him, that mission felt "impossible".
Still have the original cassette I bought in 87. Rakim is the GOAT of Rap. Cheers from a white dude from deeep in the MTs NY. Listened to this track 3x in the last wk on my CD changer.
I always wonder how people reacted when listening to songs in real-time when I do these reactions to old school tracks, that shit probably was super dope
@@PRSPR I remember when I was in 8th grade Jersey city 1988 music class my music teacher was absent , A substitute teacher brought his boom box to let us play whatever we want to play, the girls would bring out thier madonna cassette tape the boys would play LL cool j, run dmc, Tka, I played guns and roses, everyone had a good time, Then the sub teacher played Eric B and rakim Paid in full cassette tape, My melody banged out loud we started to break dance, lol I was blown away by rakim really I was, when classes ended, we asked the music teacher if we can borrow his boom box and Eric B and rakim tape, Lunch was next, He said he will escort us to the cafeteria then to the courtyard to hang out, He blast Paid in full at the school yard. The following week I saw the movie “ Colors” in one scene you can hear Paid in full.
I kept his tapes in my Walkman back in the day... first thing I played in the morning as soon as I got up... Rakim was unreal & was way ahead of his time in the 80's...
PRSPR. YOu ain't just listening. You dissecting top level lyricism. You made so many stank face expressions for this, I might have to take a shot every time lyrics make you screw face. Keep bringing the reactions.
You mentioned out of space vibe.. trust me when rakim drop in 87 felt like that's where he came from...much respect to melle mel, kool mo dee, and my personal favorite grand Master caz but when rakim drop he raised the bar when it comes to lyricism and was a template for future rappers like nas!!!
Facts! When Rakim grabbed the mic, hip hop fans realized immediately that he was coming with something that we’d never heard before. His flow and wordplay were on a level that had been previously unimaginable.
@@mikegillins4992 there was absolutely nothing like it hitherto Rakim dropping that first joint. Caught us all by surprise. And no one else could bite his style either. Bitin’ was illegal back then anyway, but you couldn’t bite it even if you tried. The wordplay was simply too intricate and the flow was something from another galaxy.
This is why Eric B and Rakim are in most people's top 5. Rakim was wayyy ahead of his time lyrically. He was a leader and he taught righteousness. Straight Legends.
Bro aside form me enjoying your knowledge of music, is what u said about “enslaved people” you’re one of the bright lights of the future.. keep being who u are bro, salute
He was not before his time he was right on time its because people weren't listening and when it comes it today they say he was before his time and now they want to listen.
Crazy. I taught history and my former department chair (also black) always advised me to remember to refer to them when teaching as “enslaved” not “slaves” You’re a bright young man king keep it up.
What a wise young man? You give me hope for your generation. I knew it that not all kids are into mindless drivel. Your thinking the same way we thought when it first came out. Listen to more thanks for the upload.
That really means a lot, thank you very much! That just shows how timeless the track is after all these years, that’s really dope. Definitely will be reacting to more Golden Era classics and gems 💯💪🏾
Rakim is a part of the 5% Nation. That's where the God talk comes from. Things like the 3rd rail reference are one of many he sprinkled in to those in tune with his beliefs.
“ Why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rock from party to party, backyard to yard Now tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods.” ~My Melody Type , The God Emcee in your search engine.
This track actually is sample based from music in the 70's Nautilus by Bob James (1974) Listen to Me by Baby Huey I Wouldn't Change a Thing by Coke Escovedo (1976)
The futuristic sounds that you're hearing is a sample from Jazz artist, Bob James's song, "Nautilus." And speaking of jazz. Rakim's family are artist, who played jazz. He also has a background in playing instruments. Jazz is a strong part of his roots. Regarding the 3rd eye etc. Back in the day, they were called, the conscious rappers of hip hop. That was very popular throughout the late 80's and 90's, where rappers were doing this before today's "Woke" generation. Basically, they took it from us. Especially during a time when Ronald Reagan and George Bush were in power and we had the Rodney King thing and police brutality was at it's highest. And I can't forget the crack epidemic and gang banging. There was a lot of shit going on during those years, and we had a lot to say about that and the system. The saying, "nothing is new under the sun" is true. Even before us; our parents were talking about the 3rd eye during the 60's. This is "black History month." A good time for you young peeps to see how far this goes back. We're talking the Malcolm X yrs, Black Panthers etc. Below is a link, showing some of the, "conscious rappers." Checkout a group by the name of "X-Clan" and "KRS1." KRS1's album, "Edutainment" was and still is off the charts. And Ice Cube's "Amerikkkas Most Wanted" was dope too. www.google.com/search?q=conscience+rappers&oq=conscience+rappers&aqs=chrome..69i57&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
I bought the debut album (Paid in Full when it came it.. .to this day he's my favorite rapper and the best ever imo...and this song is his masterpiece among many.Hes the GOAT and you get him,he's a lyrical genius,his flow was smooth as butter like a jazz musician(his family was in jazz) vocally. Check out the 1988 vinyl upload of this ,song on my channel,audio quality is raw af (cell phone recording) but it's there.🎶
I Greatly Appreciate You taking the time to Enjoy A Real and Classic Living Legend ! I had the Blessed Opportunity to See him in Concert back in 87 . I was in Highschool and the Biggest Concert if the year was Eric B n Rakim Follow The Leader Tour was the Biggest Hip Hop Concert breathing @ the Time.
I’m loving this journey, these classic tracks really are dope. That’s really dope, you were a part of history basically because there will never be another Rakim
@@PRSPR Rakim is A Legend in his own Right and has Earned it by Way of True Presentation Appreciated by Hard core Fans such as Myself . When their Album dropped In 86 Paid in Full LP Completely Metamorphisized the Whole Entire Hip Hop Industry ! He made Everybody Who considered themselves an MC to Amplify their their Pen Game ! Anyone who heard it Automatically Knew...... This Is God MC on An Elevated Mindset ! It was like who existed when they showed Up Musically ! Hip Hop got Much better Lyrically After they dropped . Not that it wasn't Dope before, it was a Fresh Perspective of how 1 Individual could change the Perspectives of Creative Writing ! Rakim Broke the boundaries of Expressive Art Form ! A deeper Respect and Appreciation happened because of it. Undeniable to Anyone who was Exposed ! Rakim Should get Every Writers Acalade there is While He's Still Here !!!! It's A Integral And Mandatory To Show Appreciation To Quality ! Especially The Uniqueness ! Enjoy Every Rakim joint and Stap on your seatbelt ! It's A Journey You'll Salute !!
The music business ruined Hip-hop record companies are more concerned about sales than the art itself. There are very few lyricist left in the the game Eminem comes to mind first and he said Rakim is his # 1 of all time
I honestly think they did that shit intentionally as well. There are actually a handful of lyricists out there still pushing out quality music but they never get the recognition they deserve, you should check out Nick Grant, Ransom, Che Noir, RJ Payne, 38 Spesh, etc Those are a few names of MCs still keeping the art alive, you won’t be disappointed
@@PRSPR I will thanks for the heads up and I think hip hop was better of when cat's played in parks underground clubs and sold music outta the trunk of a car
I’m 45 and back in 1988 I was like 13 I knew then that he was ahead of his time.But I want to commend you for catching the Jewlz that the God MC always dropped in his songs
This man is gifted and he's a gift. He changed the texture of MCing intrioducing innovative genius beyond...He takes us on journeys as he educates all clothed in skills of flow pattern dual meaning delivery of 5percent spirituality of supreme mathematics(islam).18 when this was recorded. Any questions hit me up. This is duo...Rakim did majority of the production
The verse about traveling the universe made me visualize Galaxtus, concurring worlds. This was a vision of Hiphop in the future. But it in seems in 2020 our Hiphop knowledge has been lost.
Third eye reference is due to his affiliation with 5 percent nation an organization that most ny brothers were in before the gangs they were similar to the nation of Islam ✊🏾
Thank you for pointing that out fam, I heard of the 5 percent nation before but didn’t know anything about what the stood for or what they practiced. That’s dope tho ✊🏾
In this song Rakim says "rap is Rhythm And Poetry" See what he did there? 🔥 Something as small as that. It's just one of the many reasons he is and always will be the G.O.A.T.
Some of the terminology Rakim uses in this track is Five Percenter knowledge and wisdom. He was using double and triple meanings in his lyrics long before Eminem. Rakim is one of the earliest, if not the first rapper, to regularly reference the Five Percent Nation in his songs. I've always thought this is the perfect rap record and showcased Rakim's brilliance more than any of his other tracks, though that is often the subject of hot debate in some circles. Outstanding video, man.
Peace To The Gods! Rakim was not the first God to use The Supreme Alphabet & Supreme Mathematics. The God Justice did this in 1984-85! He dropped mad science in “Cold Get Dumb”…& Part ll of “Cold Get Dumb”…
@vernonjohnson1198 Are you a registered member of the NOI? What do you know about The Supreme Wisdom Lessons? Are you even NGE? Peace To The Gods! Brother ℹ previously worked for Eric B! I know infinitely more about hip hop and Eric B & RAKIM than some random poster on RUclips! RAKIM was not the first Just-ice did it before he did sun and that’s an actual fact!
@vernonjohnson1198 Peace To The Gods! My argument was that RAKIM was not THE FIRST emcee to put mathematics and science in the music. He wasn’t. Peace!
Son of futuristic because the man took you to a journey In your mind. Rakim metaphorically And Spiritually Is great storyteller. You was basically on his ship Touring the globe. He's bigger than a rap artist. This man is like a prophet.
Rakim is Top 3. Period-Dot. Clark Kent put him with Eric B. Eric was a gangster with the Supreme Team. The O.G. 50 Cent was a friend. Top spot is hands down Grandmaster Caz for being the first to rhyme over a break beat. And being the ONLY Emcee to be given the 'Grand' title, but Ra stands right next to Caz. Rakim created 2 rhyme schemes. That's why he seems to do it so effortlessly. It was just how he got down
The 80s aka the Golden era was the best. All the rappers and rap groups spread knowledge back then. Rakim, Kane, Public Enemy, X Clan, Poor Righteous Teachers and many more. Most of them were...and still are 5%ers.
I appreciate you bringing out this amazing artist who was one of those M c's who wanted to bring party but also bring knowledge check out my melody was a dope song all his stuff is dope the crazy part is he wrote everything down crisp with precision you should watch the interview about him and how he wrote
Yo Prsper You've Just Been Brought Into The World Of The Great God M.C Rakim Top 5 on every real hip hop Rappers list you reacted to the first single off the second album where he completely evolved into his greatness the first album(Paid In Fuil) was the beginning he took the hip hop world by storm 💯💯💯 Eric B For President,My Melody,I Ain't No Joke,I Know You Got Soul,Move The Crowd & Paid In Full It Went Platinum And That Was In 1987 nobody was doing those numbers back then
I am a 51 year old white dude who listened to this dope ass shit in high school in San Antonio,Texas in 1988 and I still listen to it till this day. I was down with BDP, Public Enemy, DMC, Tribe, EPMD, Kool Moe Dee and LL. Even before NWA hit the scene. Some of the best tunes EVER! Rakim is the GOAT. Rhythm, poetry, and knowledge. Drop the mic.
Rakim is credited for changing the flow and more complex rhyme schemes in Rap.
He birthed so many dope rappers as well
@@PRSPR
Money birthed the entire new school of rap.
They don't refer to him as the god emcee for nothin'.
Indeed this song is basically the template for the way Eminem structures his rhymes.
You all probably dont give a shit but does someone know a tool to log back into an instagram account?
I stupidly lost my account password. I appreciate any assistance you can offer me
@Elijah Tatum instablaster :)
For myself and all of my friends who were teens in the late 80’s, Rakim was like a super hero. We would hang on every verse word by word. He was so far ahead of everyone else. Without doubt the greatest ever imo. He changed the game and not many have done so.
I like how you noticed his lyrical density when you say he doesn't waste a single line. He would definitely take you to school but put out straight bangers at the same time. What more can I say about Rakim that hasn't already been said by others here? The God MC...
What makes this song more incredible is that Rakim was 19 when he recorded this....nothing else to be said.
When rakim emerged the entire game changed because of his style. Everyone had to go back to the drawing board
WORD UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The illest MC to ever touch the mic 🎤 🎙
Appreciate that you appreciate the classics 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
I'm definitely gonna check out more of his stuff, the God MC! Thank you fam, just a fan of great music 👍🏾
I totally agree
This is refreshing to see a young man appreciate classic hip hop!! Much respect ✊🏾
BIG FACTS!
Thank you very much for all your support, it really means a lot! Also thank you for guiding me on this journey, y’all putting me on to so much heat 🔥🔥🔥
@@PRSPR absolutely brother! Keep doing your thing, your content is 🔥
@@PRSPR Keep the up great reactions, All respect to you, My nephew and his friends play today’s hip hop for an hour , I like some of the tracks I don’t mind the mumbling rappers it’s their style, Then I play hip hop from the 80s whodunni, kurtis blow, public enemy big daddy Kane, 90s like Gangstarr, tribe called quest, epmd, cl smooth and Pete rock, Thier minds are blown, They love it.
@@chrisbano9216 I appreciate the positive comment, thank you very much! I feel you on that, nothing better than the Golden Era of Hip Hop
Eric B and Rakim- Don't Sweat the Technique
Eric B and Rakim- As the Rhyme Goes On
Eric B and Rakim- Mahogany
Eric B and Rakim- Microphone Fiend
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
The 18th Letter, When I B On The Mic, Let The Rythm Hit'em. The list literally goes on forever.
yep him and KRS ONE are the microphone masters.
@@jameswatson6720 don't leave out Kane and G.Rap. those 4 are my mt.rushmore
Rakim was and is the best ever to do it.
This is my generation i was 17vrs old when this came out we were all about knowledge of self ,the 5 percenters, the f-o-i, the x-Clan This is where nas the wu tang black thought all come from
That’s really dope, I remember seeing an interview of Lord Jamar talking about his involvement with the 5 percenters. I definitely need to read up on it along with the other groups you listed.
Mine too Bruh!! We're blessed to have grown up in the era we did.
So I guess we're a bunch of 49/50 yr. old's checking out a youngster's perspective on the GOD MC, huh??
1987 to 92... The golden age of hip hop
@@DjcHuCkNiCe1 Exactly.
The GOD MC
Deep reaction Rakim was a head of his time. Enter the industry at 17 years old,
Thank you! I agree, his message is still relevant and his songs still slap. That’s crazy he entered the music industry that young, that’s very impressive
@@PRSPR He's only 20 right here.
Those are NEW YORK beats. Beats for Subways, crowded streets, and skyscrapers. This was back when NYC had a sound. Back when hiphop was still the city. 1988… it was still spreading around the country.
Yo young God you broke the song down to a science, rakim is my favorite I really enjoyed this video reaction
"I can take a phrase that's rarely heard, flip it, now it's a daily word "
He doesn't waste a single line just for the sake of a rhyme. Bruh, that's a bar right there lol! You couldn't describe Rakim more accurate than what you said there. That's why he's the God MC. Before him brothers rhymed cat with hat. He was the first to use internal rhymes, metaphores and similes, rhyming multi syllables. Also before him nobody been dropping knowledge beyond what's commonly known in their songs. It was mostly being just braggadocious and doing party raps
He wasn't the 1st to do that, but he was the best to do it. If you go back a few years, Kool Moe Dee created that style of rhyming. Especially on his song " Turn It Up"
Kool Moe Dee had a different flow. That's where his beef started with LL Cool J. He accused LL of stealing his style
@@johnbooker7153 Peace! You just won the $64,000 question my brother…you’re the only other person that I’ve read who knows this. As a matter of fact, Public Enemy cuts the chorus from that joint, “Turn it Up” and it becomes part of the hook in “Bring the Noise” (1987)….genius..
@@bigb2494 KMD had different flows; however he started internal rhyming on wax. The concept of internal rhyming had never been implemented on wax before Turn It Up”. KMD is the Father of the brainiac style of emceeing….Think Kool Keith also..
Rakim is equal parts instrument and lyricist, blending and bending words with a seamless lava flow. What feels like a kiss is a punch- he's that gifted. This track personifies the poetic Art of Hip-Hop. Many may follow but the leader leads.
That’s a perfect way to explain him, he’s really dope 💯
@@PRSPR Thanks bro. I know I have requested a number of Rakim tracks, however I think "Holy Are You" epitomises lyrical prowess and impeccable production. When time permits. Blessings. ✌❤
Eric B. & Rakim started in 1986 with paid in Full their final album was Don't Sweat the Technique 1991
Rakim has 3 solo albums his final album 2009
Thank you for clarifying that to me, that’s dope 🔥🔥🔥
@@PRSPR check out paid in full album next their debut
The album came out in 87 but the single hit in 86. NYC was floored when he came out
@Vernon Johnson yes sir. Gotta teach the youngsters or out of towners about the beginning of this 👍🏼
RAKIM THE GOD came from Strong Island "Wyandanch" Eric B from Brooklyn in 1986 " My Melody" dropped the album "Paid in Full" dropped in 1987. The "R" 🐐 changed the way rappers were rhyming till "Nas" last great song in 2001 "Made you look" after that to me was the end of great lyricist. Good looking out glad to know young brothers are doing their homework and keeping our great culture of Hip Hop alive...PEACE!✌️
MASTER CLASS! Best hip-hop artist & tune EVER!
Rakim is definitely one of the best of all time, if not the GOAT.
KRS had a line where he said "anybody can battle for glory, but to kick a dope rhyme and wake up your people's another story."
The GOAT!!!!
I've always said Hip Hop is too diverse to have a single GOAT. BUT Nas, Krs-1, and Rakim are the 3 Kings.
@@dantegreen4094 Rakim is my guy because of Hip hop before and after him.
Now U understand why Rakim is called the GOD Emcee ! Still 'til this day "Follow The Leader" is head & shoulders above the rest.
I agree with Flatbush, I love to see young cats appreciating what I grew up on. If you like bars, I suggest you check out Kool G Rap’s stuff. He was really the very first gangsta rapper. Big Daddy Kane too. As far as conscious rap, that was the best time for hip hop. Knowledge and consciousness in the black community was really getting understanding, they couldn’t get in school. Respect!
Thank you fam! I heard a few of Kool G Rap’s stuff but it’s mainly his recent work like his project with 38 Spesh, I definitely need to check out more of his older stuff along with Big Daddy Kane. That makes sense, thanks for sharing those points with me fam
The first Gangster Emcee was Just-Ice and the God is mad dope.
Excellent suggestions!
Yes!!! Rakim was waaaaay ahead of his time and he STILL got it. Check out his appearance on NPR TINY DESK CONCERT not too long ago. He’s a professional live MC. If you did a review it prob would not get blocked.
I would do a reaction to that but I heard other people that reacted to NPR Tiny Desk Concert got their video blocked and a copyright strike so I unfortunately don’t want to take that risk. But I’ll for sure check it out and get back to you on what I think
@@PRSPR Ohhhhh ok. Yeah don’t risk it. Wise choice. Yeah check it out...it was dope watching Rakim live after all these years.
@PRSPR here are a few jewels to help you understand Rakim...5 percenter, supreme mathematics, Dogon, Sirius A,B,C. Research these
This will take out all your new school rap this is eternal rap
Facts 💯
@PRSPR ... the 5% Universal Flag is shown on the back of Rakim's jacket... back in the '80s when this album was released I didn't even know what it was, until around '91/'92... this dude was way ahead of his time
I like the way you think youngblood
Thank you fam, I appreciate that! 💯🙏🏾
My favorite rapper of all time. I got the same feeling in '88 as you did just now. Also got "Mission Impossible" vibe from the beat/production. Also his supreme rhyming skills displayed here were to let you know he was the master and if you were going to try to match him, that mission felt "impossible".
I can't wait to check out more of his music, this track was amazing! That's a great analysis, thank you for sharing that with me fam
i agree with that and big daddy kane also in my opinion greetz from the netherlands
Still have the original cassette I bought in 87. Rakim is the GOAT of Rap. Cheers from a white dude from deeep in the MTs NY. Listened to this track 3x in the last wk on my CD changer.
u r one hell of a reaction boy bruh. keep it flowin
Thank you fam, I appreciate the support!
Rakim "THE God MC" he really kicks knowledge on the mystery and holy are you check out those two songs
I’ll add both of those to my list fam, thank you for the request 💯
Knowledge
Wisdom
Understanding
Imagine me hearing this when it dropped
I was seventeen
I always wonder how people reacted when listening to songs in real-time when I do these reactions to old school tracks, that shit probably was super dope
@@PRSPR needless to say I wore the album out
No shit I drove from Tennessee to NYC looking for this brother Rakim. I was a hip hop junkie 4 sho.
@@PRSPR I remember when I was in 8th grade Jersey city 1988 music class my music teacher was absent , A substitute teacher brought his boom box to let us play whatever we want to play, the girls would bring out thier madonna cassette tape the boys would play LL cool j, run dmc, Tka, I played guns and roses, everyone had a good time, Then the sub teacher played Eric B and rakim Paid in full cassette tape, My melody banged out loud we started to break dance, lol I was blown away by rakim really I was, when classes ended, we asked the music teacher if we can borrow his boom box and Eric B and rakim tape, Lunch was next, He said he will escort us to the cafeteria then to the courtyard to hang out, He blast Paid in full at the school yard. The following week I saw the movie “ Colors” in one scene you can hear Paid in full.
Rakim the god.
Rakim " The Punisher" U can thank me later
I’ll do that one soon fam, thank you for the request 💯🙏🏾
Rakim Allah..."THE GOD MC". Rap is divided into two eras..."BEFORE RAKIM" and "AFTER RAKIM". He is THE GOAT.
LoL… BC / AD
The invincible Microphone Fiend Rakim!!! The G.O.A.T. The R!!
God. Have no idea of how this song made young black men feel back in the late 80's. Rakim took us back to ancient civilization and to outer space!
I kept his tapes in my Walkman back in the day... first thing I played in the morning as soon as I got up... Rakim was unreal & was way ahead of his time in the 80's...
PRSPR. YOu ain't just listening. You dissecting top level lyricism. You made so many stank face expressions for this, I might have to take a shot every time lyrics make you screw face. Keep bringing the reactions.
Thank you! I feel you on that lol, I made that stank face several times cause he was saying so much dope bars. Definitely will do
You mentioned out of space vibe.. trust me when rakim drop in 87 felt like that's where he came from...much respect to melle mel, kool mo dee, and my personal favorite grand Master caz but when rakim drop he raised the bar when it comes to lyricism and was a template for future rappers like nas!!!
Facts! When Rakim grabbed the mic, hip hop fans realized immediately that he was coming with something that we’d never heard before. His flow and wordplay were on a level that had been previously unimaginable.
@@desertdetroiter428 other greats dropped around that era LL cool j in 85 KRS1 in 87 and kane in 88 but rakim smooth delivery gave him his own lane!!!
Kool moe dee said the same thing. When he heard Rakim he knew they were legends and Rakim was the new King.
@@mikegillins4992 there was absolutely nothing like it hitherto Rakim dropping that first joint. Caught us all by surprise. And no one else could bite his style either. Bitin’ was illegal back then anyway, but you couldn’t bite it even if you tried. The wordplay was simply too intricate and the flow was something from another galaxy.
@FIRST_TØ_LETT_A_RHYMME_FLØW_DØWN_THE_NILE [RAKiM] paid in full was his debut it dropped in 87
The fact that this was written when I was in the 5th grade…NOBODY was rapping like this in the 80s. He’s the father of the Nases, J Cole’s ect
This is why Eric B and Rakim are in most people's top 5. Rakim was wayyy ahead of his time lyrically. He was a leader and he taught righteousness. Straight Legends.
Bro aside form me enjoying your knowledge of music, is what u said about “enslaved people” you’re one of the bright lights of the future.. keep being who u are bro, salute
Thank you very much fam, that really means a lot to me! 🙏🏾 Definitely will do fam ✊🏾
Back in these days every rapper had his own dj..most 80s rappers had a rapper/dj dynamic duo
Rakim was letting you know where his brain is on another level lil bro
He was not before his time he was right on time its because people weren't listening and when it comes it today they say he was before his time and now they want to listen.
Agreed. We were freed people who was enslaved, never slaves but enslaved.
✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾
Crazy. I taught history and my former department chair (also black) always advised me to remember to refer to them when teaching as “enslaved” not “slaves”
You’re a bright young man king keep it up.
What a wise young man? You give me hope for your generation. I knew it that not all kids are into mindless drivel. Your thinking the same way we thought when it first came out. Listen to more thanks for the upload.
That really means a lot, thank you very much! That just shows how timeless the track is after all these years, that’s really dope. Definitely will be reacting to more Golden Era classics and gems 💯💪🏾
The way you analyse is dope. Continue the 90's rap and see your channel grow exponentially
Thank you fam! Definitely will do, I love the Golden Era of rap 🔥🔥
Its the music of traveling thru space on a journey of the mind ... a spaceship theme song
Rakim is a part of the 5% Nation. That's where the God talk comes from. Things like the 3rd rail reference are one of many he sprinkled in to those in tune with his beliefs.
“ Why waste time on the microphone
I take this more serious than just a poem
Rock from party to party, backyard to yard
Now tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods.” ~My Melody
Type , The God Emcee in your search engine.
This track actually is sample based from music in the 70's
Nautilus by Bob James (1974)
Listen to Me by Baby Huey
I Wouldn't Change a Thing by Coke Escovedo (1976)
Old school gangta groove. One of the best of all time!
taking you on a lyrical journey ,,crazy crazy word play
FOREVER MY FAVORITE ERIC B & RAKIM RECORD…..EVER 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
The futuristic sounds that you're hearing is a sample from Jazz artist, Bob James's song, "Nautilus." And speaking of jazz. Rakim's family are artist, who played jazz. He also has a background in playing instruments. Jazz is a strong part of his roots. Regarding the 3rd eye etc. Back in the day, they were called, the conscious rappers of hip hop. That was very popular throughout the late 80's and 90's, where rappers were doing this before today's "Woke" generation. Basically, they took it from us. Especially during a time when Ronald Reagan and George Bush were in power and we had the Rodney King thing and police brutality was at it's highest. And I can't forget the crack epidemic and gang banging. There was a lot of shit going on during those years, and we had a lot to say about that and the system. The saying, "nothing is new under the sun" is true. Even before us; our parents were talking about the 3rd eye during the 60's. This is "black History month." A good time for you young peeps to see how far this goes back. We're talking the Malcolm X yrs, Black Panthers etc. Below is a link, showing some of the, "conscious rappers." Checkout a group by the name of "X-Clan" and "KRS1." KRS1's album, "Edutainment" was and still is off the charts. And Ice Cube's "Amerikkkas Most Wanted" was dope too.
www.google.com/search?q=conscience+rappers&oq=conscience+rappers&aqs=chrome..69i57&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
I bought the debut album (Paid in Full when it came it.. .to this day he's my favorite rapper and the best ever imo...and this song is his masterpiece among many.Hes the GOAT and you get him,he's a lyrical genius,his flow was smooth as butter like a jazz musician(his family was in jazz) vocally. Check out the 1988 vinyl upload of this ,song on my channel,audio quality is raw af (cell phone recording) but it's there.🎶
I Greatly Appreciate You taking the time to Enjoy A Real and Classic Living Legend ! I had the Blessed Opportunity to See him in Concert back in 87 . I was in Highschool and the Biggest Concert if the year was Eric B n Rakim Follow The Leader Tour was the Biggest Hip Hop Concert breathing @ the Time.
I’m loving this journey, these classic tracks really are dope. That’s really dope, you were a part of history basically because there will never be another Rakim
@@PRSPR Rakim is A Legend in his own Right and has Earned it by Way of True Presentation Appreciated by Hard core Fans such as Myself . When their Album dropped In 86 Paid in Full LP Completely Metamorphisized the Whole Entire Hip Hop Industry ! He made Everybody Who considered themselves an MC to Amplify their their Pen Game ! Anyone who heard it Automatically Knew...... This Is God MC on An Elevated Mindset ! It was like who existed when they showed Up Musically ! Hip Hop got Much better Lyrically After they dropped . Not that it wasn't Dope before, it was a Fresh Perspective of how 1 Individual could change the Perspectives of Creative Writing ! Rakim Broke the boundaries of Expressive Art Form ! A deeper Respect and Appreciation happened because of it. Undeniable to Anyone who was Exposed ! Rakim Should get Every Writers Acalade there is While He's Still Here !!!! It's A Integral And Mandatory To Show Appreciation To Quality ! Especially The Uniqueness ! Enjoy Every Rakim joint and Stap on your seatbelt ! It's A Journey You'll Salute !!
The music business ruined Hip-hop record companies are more concerned about sales than the art itself. There are very few lyricist left in the the game Eminem comes to mind first and he said Rakim is his # 1 of all time
I honestly think they did that shit intentionally as well. There are actually a handful of lyricists out there still pushing out quality music but they never get the recognition they deserve, you should check out Nick Grant, Ransom, Che Noir, RJ Payne, 38 Spesh, etc Those are a few names of MCs still keeping the art alive, you won’t be disappointed
@@PRSPR I will thanks for the heads up and I think hip hop was better of when cat's played in parks underground clubs and sold music outta the trunk of a car
I’m 45 and back in 1988 I was like 13 I knew then that he was ahead of his time.But I want to commend you for catching the Jewlz that the God MC always dropped in his songs
Erick B ON THE BEATS BRO AND THE Scratching true legend
There's so much content coming at such speed that it can be overwhelming.
This man is gifted and he's a gift. He changed the texture of MCing intrioducing innovative genius beyond...He takes us on journeys as he educates all clothed in skills of flow pattern dual meaning delivery of 5percent spirituality of supreme mathematics(islam).18 when this was recorded. Any questions hit me up. This is duo...Rakim did majority of the production
He does it right because he invented the style. I grew up with him.
That’s impressive that he created this cold style
Moe Dee invented the style...Rakim perfected it
He's talking about your conscious traveling. GOD MC
You have to do my melody, and Erick b for president
I’ll throw that in the mix, several other people requested that as well 💯
"Enter danger zone he should arrange his own face it it's basic erase or change your tone"
The verse about traveling the universe made me visualize Galaxtus, concurring worlds. This was a vision of Hiphop in the future. But it in seems in 2020 our Hiphop knowledge has been lost.
It for sure is a lost art but it seems like a few rappers are bringing that real shit back
Third eye reference is due to his affiliation with 5 percent nation an organization that most ny brothers were in before the gangs they were similar to the nation of Islam ✊🏾
Thank you for pointing that out fam, I heard of the 5 percent nation before but didn’t know anything about what the stood for or what they practiced. That’s dope tho ✊🏾
nice insights, you got an old soul, kid. really enjoyed your reaction to this classic.
My favorite all time rap song. Thanks for keeping this song alive, keep listen young man, peace.
He said people walk up to him on the street and say Are u an alien? lol
That’s hilarious af 😂😂
Young bro ... Eric B & Rakim were Rap Super Heroes before the culture needed them 👊🏾
In this song Rakim says "rap is Rhythm And Poetry" See what he did there? 🔥 Something as small as that. It's just one of the many reasons he is and always will be the G.O.A.T.
Rakim-Know the ledge. Master class in the beginning of lyrical hiphop!
Spice 1 - 187 Proof. I think you’d like the word play on that one for sure.
Also has a dope video 😉
He was referring to Kane when he said I’M NOT HIM & WORD TO DADDY, INDEED.
Some of the terminology Rakim uses in this track is Five Percenter knowledge and wisdom. He was using double and triple meanings in his lyrics long before Eminem. Rakim is one of the earliest, if not the first rapper, to regularly reference the Five Percent Nation in his songs. I've always thought this is the perfect rap record and showcased Rakim's brilliance more than any of his other tracks, though that is often the subject of hot debate in some circles. Outstanding video, man.
Peace To The Gods! Rakim was not the first God to use The Supreme Alphabet & Supreme Mathematics. The God Justice did this in 1984-85! He dropped mad science in “Cold Get Dumb”…& Part ll of “Cold Get Dumb”…
@vernonjohnson1198 Are you a registered member of the NOI? What do you know about The Supreme Wisdom Lessons? Are you even NGE? Peace To The Gods! Brother ℹ previously worked for Eric B! I know infinitely more about hip hop and Eric B & RAKIM than some random poster on RUclips! RAKIM was not the first Just-ice did it before he did sun and that’s an actual fact!
@vernonjohnson1198 Peace To The Gods! My argument was that RAKIM was not THE FIRST emcee to put mathematics and science in the music. He wasn’t. Peace!
@vernonjohnson1198 ruclips.net/video/WQ9_uur0_HU/видео.htmlsi=FpxnONBMssXp5_XV This was before RAKIM made his debut..
@vernonjohnson1198 RAKIM was not before Just Ice!
Son of futuristic because the man took you to a journey In your mind. Rakim metaphorically And Spiritually Is great storyteller. You was basically on his ship Touring the globe. He's bigger than a rap artist. This man is like a prophet.
Great job on your analysis and understanding the concept of this song along its the lyricism
Thank you!
Dude u hit the nail on the head, nice reaction
He is the inventor he invented that he invented this fellow
Rakim is Top 3. Period-Dot. Clark Kent put him with Eric B. Eric was a gangster with the Supreme Team. The O.G. 50 Cent was a friend. Top spot is hands down Grandmaster Caz for being the first to rhyme over a break beat. And being the ONLY Emcee to be given the 'Grand' title, but Ra stands right next to Caz. Rakim created 2 rhyme schemes. That's why he seems to do it so effortlessly. It was just how he got down
I had to subscribe after watching a few videos. BRIDGE THE GAP!!!
The 80s aka the Golden era was the best. All the rappers and rap groups spread knowledge back then.
Rakim, Kane, Public Enemy, X Clan, Poor Righteous Teachers and many more. Most of them were...and still are 5%ers.
I appreciate you bringing out this amazing artist who was one of those M c's who wanted to bring party but also bring knowledge check out my melody was a dope song all his stuff is dope the crazy part is he wrote everything down crisp with precision you should watch the interview about him and how he wrote
its 2022...that came ouyt either 1986 to 88,thats elite rappin,thats grade A shit.
Yo Prsper You've Just Been Brought Into The World Of The Great God M.C Rakim Top 5 on every real hip hop Rappers list you reacted to the first single off the second album where he completely evolved into his greatness the first album(Paid In Fuil) was the beginning he took the hip hop world by storm 💯💯💯 Eric B For President,My Melody,I Ain't No Joke,I Know You Got Soul,Move The Crowd & Paid In Full It Went Platinum And That Was In 1987 nobody was doing those numbers back then
8:58 - 9:30… you can listen to this 300 years from now and it’ll STILL BE DOPE!
Check out “ what’s on your mind” one of my favorite tracks from Rakim, dope love story telling
Best flow ever. There’s Rakim, there’s Ren, and then there’s everybody else that happened in between.
THATS WHO INFLUENCED NAS PEEP THE OPEN EYE SIMILARITIES IN THEIR RHYMES...😉
FACTS ‼️‼️‼️💯💯💯
Blessings young 1 Hopefully your having success keep pushing stay safe Blessings Always 🙏🙏
Thank you very much fam! Definitely will do, likewise. God Bless fam 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
12:16 - 12:20 … Parrish Smith (of EPMD) diss. This was a reference to their “Knick-knack paddy-whack” lyrics
keep doing your thing man, real good analysation of the music
Rakim is the 🐐
The GOD emcee!!!