Rakim: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

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  • Опубликовано: 1 июл 2018
  • June 25, 2018 | Abby O'Neill -- It had been nearly a decade since Rakim released new music, but that drought ended Friday when the godfather of rap lyricism and one half of the revered duo Eric B & Rakim released a new song, "King's Paradise." The track was written for Season 2 of Marvel's Luke Cage, which premiered on Netflix the same day, but it wasn't entirely new to select NPR staff; they heard it days earlier when the God MC performed at the Tiny Desk.
    The New York rap icon wasn't the only legend in the building that day. Ali Shaheed Muhammad of A Tribe Called Quest - who produced and co-wrote "King's Paradise" with keyboardist Adrian Younge under their new project The Midnight Hour - played bass, and rising blues torchbearer Christone "Kingfish" Ingram sat in on guitar.
    "King's Paradise" pays homage to the heroes of the Harlem Renaissance as well as its fictional superhero, the bulletproof Luke Cage. Rakim tipped his hat to Philip Payton Jr., Joe Lewis, Lena Horne, Malcolm X, Maya Angelou and Louis Armstrong, before concluding with a few bars about the comic book-inspired series.
    Younge then led the nine-member backing band through two of Rakim's undeniable classics: "Paid in Full" and "Know the Ledge." For the former, drummer David Henderson rolled right in with the unmistakable breakbeat, - originally sampled from The Soul Searchers "Ashley's Roachclip." Muhammad, who's been playing bass since age 19 despite being known for his production and DJ work, provided the low end for "Know The Ledge."
    Rakim released his first single 32 years ago, yet the timbre of his voice and Dali Llama aura remain strong. Let's hope this is the beginning of another renaissance.
    Set List
    "King's Paradise"
    "Paid In Full"
    "Know The Ledge"
    MUSICIANS
    Rakim (vocals), Adrian Younge (keys), Ali Shaheed Muhammad (bass), Jack Waterson (guitar), David Henderson (drums), Loren Oden (vocals), Saudia Mills (vocals), Angela Munoz (vocals), Stephanie Yu (violin), Bryan Hernandez-Luch (violin), DeAndre Shaifer (trumpet) , Jordan Pettay (saxophone), Joi Gilliam (vocalist), Christone Ingram (Kingfish) (guitar)
    CREDITS
    Producers: Abby O'Neill, Morgan Noelle Smith; Creative Director: Bob Boilen; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Khun Minn Ohn, Maia Stern, Beck Harlan, Kara Frame; Production Assistants: Catherine Zhang, Téa Mottolese; Photo: Eslah Attar/NPR.
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Комментарии • 8 тыс.

  • @nprmusic
    @nprmusic  10 месяцев назад +75

    Hey Tiny Desk Fans,
    Check out NPR’s Black Stories, Black Truths - a collection of podcasts hosted by journalists who speak truth to power. Our voices are as varied, nuanced, and dynamic as the Black experience. And stories should never be about us without us. Listen now: www.npr.org/podcasts/510372/black-stories-black-truths

    • @GONZOSARTIMPORIUM
      @GONZOSARTIMPORIUM 10 месяцев назад +1

      Let agree to disagree

    • @Kimbrough74
      @Kimbrough74 10 месяцев назад

      ​@@GONZOSARTIMPORIUMwhy disclose your investment in the preservation of inequities?

    • @jwilli850
      @jwilli850 8 месяцев назад +4

      correction… Rakim is the greatest lyricist of all time

    • @beautifullifemedia2733
      @beautifullifemedia2733 8 месяцев назад

      Timeless!

    • @gabrielleelliott2487
      @gabrielleelliott2487 8 месяцев назад +1

      ​@@jwilli850that's facts

  • @yopacific
    @yopacific 4 года назад +2802

    Let’s be clear....Rakim is the greatest MC of all time

    • @poerava
      @poerava 3 года назад +51

      You ain’t lying

    • @mariusgate3030
      @mariusgate3030 3 года назад +66

      MF DOOM?

    • @josephasci
      @josephasci 3 года назад +17

      Agreed 100....

    • @irishseano
      @irishseano 3 года назад +24

      It’s hard to argue isn’t it?

    • @pgreen3250
      @pgreen3250 3 года назад +74

      Uhhh say it a little louder for the kids sittin in the back.

  • @mr1597
    @mr1597 4 года назад +3624

    When Rakim comes to your house, you're the guest.

  • @finaltouchpro648
    @finaltouchpro648 Год назад +562

    "Rakim is basically the inventor of flow. We were not even using the word flow until Rakim came along. It was called rhyming, it was called cadence, but it wasn't called flow. Rakim created flow!" - Kool Moe Dee

    • @adamnoyb7853
      @adamnoyb7853 Год назад +3

      No he isn't not at all

    • @sobe9ograff
      @sobe9ograff Год назад +13

      @@adamnoyb7853 enlighten us then wise one

    • @adamnoyb7853
      @adamnoyb7853 Год назад +3

      @@sobe9ograff bro no one raps like him today!!!! Y'all claim he's the best boom bap is the best etc... But it's all gone and Dead. No one cares about y'all sub genre of hip hop anymore but y'all still claim it's superior. Lol. Ice T is more duplicated today than anyone from the past.

    • @sobe9ograff
      @sobe9ograff Год назад +15

      @@adamnoyb7853 lol you tripping. read his comment again.

    • @duv6866
      @duv6866 Год назад +41

      ​@@adamnoyb7853 Rakim helped to pioneer the use of internal rhymes and multisyllabic rhymes, and he was among the first to demonstrate the possibilities of sitting down to write intricately crafted lyrics packed with clever word choices and metaphors rather than the more improvisational styles and simpler rhyme patterns that predominated before him.[2] Rakim is also credited with creating the overall shift from the more simplistic old school flows to more complex flows.
      Educate yourself

  • @kublakhanican7486
    @kublakhanican7486 2 года назад +427

    The dude with the grey guitar is ill. Props to Ali Shaheed Muhammad for being there too. This whole thing is sick, Rakim is amazing

    • @jasonjohnson3318
      @jasonjohnson3318 Год назад +8

      @Ernesto Mendez yes. The one and only!

    • @desullcrappie
      @desullcrappie Год назад +6

      Just rewatched this and noticed Ali and Kingfish. 😲

    • @nickrizzo4635
      @nickrizzo4635 Год назад +1

      He’s definitely sick with it

    • @Obscurity202
      @Obscurity202 Год назад +2

      Ali is one of my favorite bass players!

    • @smeadows1910
      @smeadows1910 Год назад +6

      Came for Rakim, coming back for Kingfish 🤌

  • @adrian-zr6eu
    @adrian-zr6eu 3 года назад +1505

    Rakim, the man who said " Age don't matter in the booth, as long as your flow stays submerged in the fountain of youth". Respect for still flowing true to your style

  • @chriskasatka2095
    @chriskasatka2095 4 года назад +1753

    I would pay serious money to watch him do a full set with this band.

    • @OnanX501
      @OnanX501 4 года назад +16

      I 2nd that

    • @April-201
      @April-201 4 года назад +13

      🙋🏾‍♀️ 3rd that

    • @leviescott4819
      @leviescott4819 4 года назад +10

      A colorblind Masterpiece

    • @stephnash4637
      @stephnash4637 4 года назад +2

      Chris Kasatka Me also.

    • @bollie4431
      @bollie4431 4 года назад +4

      I 4th that 🔥🔥🔥

  • @veevee4461
    @veevee4461 19 дней назад +4

    Let em know Rakim!! Still listening to your music in 2024🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

  • @TYMZTABLZ
    @TYMZTABLZ 7 месяцев назад +56

    I enrolled in a poetry class a few years back and I brought Paid in Full as my example of a great poem. Greatest MC in the game.

  • @ghostshipone
    @ghostshipone 3 года назад +963

    Rakim was the MC that changed the tempo from nursery rhymes to soul. Legend

    • @unbreakablerogue
      @unbreakablerogue 3 года назад +7

      Legend for sure :)

    • @allofasudden6997
      @allofasudden6997 3 года назад +4

      You have Kool G Rao

    • @sirjellybeans1st19
      @sirjellybeans1st19 3 года назад +13

      I met him after one of his gigs and he signed my Don't sweat the technique album and gig poster plus he gave me his Hat! Still have it
      Legend and one Lovely Soul

    • @timy9197
      @timy9197 2 года назад +1

      Perfect way to describe it

    • @JtothaMajesty
      @JtothaMajesty 2 года назад

      JU-Neek "Survival" (feat. MC Don-E) -> see iTunes, Amazon Music, Spotify, etc.

  • @1710Austin
    @1710Austin 5 лет назад +890

    Rakim need to release a jazz album this is fire

    • @TheSolution4Kickz
      @TheSolution4Kickz 5 лет назад +25

      That would be dope because he's actually nice on the horn.

    • @savannahmorgan6924
      @savannahmorgan6924 5 лет назад +4

      Austin S please and thank you

    • @bolder2009
      @bolder2009 5 лет назад

      The Solution!4Kickz You heard him play?

    • @TheSolution4Kickz
      @TheSolution4Kickz 5 лет назад +8

      @@bolder2009 he grew up playing. Do a search there's footage of him playing.

    • @bolder2009
      @bolder2009 5 лет назад +1

      The Solution!4Kickz I have searched. I can't find any footage. Just a photo from his high school band class.

  • @DualisticPerspective
    @DualisticPerspective 2 года назад +107

    the guy with the guitar is a legend!

  • @kingjellybeans7823
    @kingjellybeans7823 Год назад +117

    Got backstage to meet Rakim a few years ago on his European tour and he signed my Don't sweat the technique Album and gave me his Hat as well. Put his arm around me for a photo. Lovely down to earth man who cares for his fans.
    GOD MC
    NO DOUBT

  • @oiramsq73
    @oiramsq73 3 года назад +666

    Rakim was so far ahead of EVERYONE 30 years ago that now, 30 years later, he’s a lifetime ahead.

  • @rd4660
    @rd4660 6 лет назад +230

    Old skool. No swearing, no disrespect, no vitriol. The true definition of keeping it real.

    • @yorkyoung6439
      @yorkyoung6439 6 лет назад +20

      Word Up ....... No need for vulgarity when your grammar is nice!!!

    • @yohannesb1946
      @yohannesb1946 6 лет назад +2

      York Young most def homie, you know deal

  • @EricAndrewDodson
    @EricAndrewDodson 2 года назад +58

    He should make an album with this band.

  • @t3dlifestyle650
    @t3dlifestyle650 Год назад +163

    Paid in Full never gets old. Lyrically Rakim was ahead of his time and shifted the culture to birth MCs like NAS. To this day the lyrics are relevant and fire!

    • @coryjackson6944
      @coryjackson6944 10 месяцев назад +1

      Tell me about it! As I continue to get my paper up I go back to that song for inspiration 😊

    • @sonjaistheone4614
      @sonjaistheone4614 8 месяцев назад +2

      Paid in Full is still my favorite by him!

    • @t3dlifestyle650
      @t3dlifestyle650 8 месяцев назад

      @@coryjackson6944 It definitely has inspired me throughout my journey!

    • @t3dlifestyle650
      @t3dlifestyle650 8 месяцев назад

      @@sonjaistheone4614 No doubt. It's my favorite song as well!

  • @alanronaldo2817
    @alanronaldo2817 4 года назад +555

    Lets take care of Rakim... The living legend.

    • @ThothTheAtlanteanK
      @ThothTheAtlanteanK 4 года назад +6

      FOR REAL! TRUTH!

    • @irishseano
      @irishseano 4 года назад +8

      One of,if not THE GREATEST of all time!

    • @mwanziesaffa3071
      @mwanziesaffa3071 3 года назад +1

      True. If balling was rapping? I hate to combine TWO game changing, league-evolving players into ONE to most accurately describe the R's effect on the game, but?
      You would need TWO game changing players to most accurately describe Rakim Allah's effect on MCing but Rakim is to hiphop what Bill Russell and Rafer "Skip-To-My-Lou" Alston is to balling. Rakim is the Rafer Russell of hiphop!

    • @DamTheKid
      @DamTheKid 3 года назад +1

      Also keep that big man on the guitar in your prayers

    • @crazyaboutboxing9385
      @crazyaboutboxing9385 3 года назад

      He’ll yeah The R ......

  • @dushyantpal6638
    @dushyantpal6638 4 года назад +414

    This is criminally short.

    • @ispearedbritney
      @ispearedbritney 3 года назад +3

      I feel blessed to have heard even one minute. The normalization of greed has left you perpetually wanting.

    • @yamezsr
      @yamezsr 3 года назад +7

      Therein lies the challenge though! Who else can tell the story of an entire City in this short amount of time? He captured New York so beautifully in this picture he painted through music!!! Wow!

    • @KTone459
      @KTone459 3 года назад

      That has been my thought for years. But last year i just appreciated how they did and said so much in such a short space. Timeless.

    • @tskinner5439
      @tskinner5439 26 дней назад

      I was thinking the same thing. He has such a deep rich urban poetry catalogue. Just as I was getting comfortable and ready to hear a couple more.. It's done.

    • @tskinner5439
      @tskinner5439 25 дней назад

      My thought exactly.

  • @charletruesdale2459
    @charletruesdale2459 Год назад +85

    Why am I just now seeing this masterpiece? Rakim!!! GOAT. Take notes youngin's, this is when rap had a meaning, a flow, a message.

    • @blackbuddha7731
      @blackbuddha7731 Год назад +2

      Man I'm like why am I just hearing this!

    • @ashkeygii9449
      @ashkeygii9449 Год назад +3

      Exactly! I had to come up on it on social media. Smh all these tiny desks and I miss THIS?! I also see there's a BDK one 😮

    • @topshelf6771
      @topshelf6771 8 месяцев назад +1

      Don’t feel bad I’m just seeing it 11 months after you! I found this because a post about how DMX acted the first time he actually spoke to Rah….guess I’ll be looking at his videos for the rest of the day now.

    • @realchriskash
      @realchriskash 5 месяцев назад

      Hold on to your seat !

  • @MsSlimbee
    @MsSlimbee 2 года назад +68

    I'm from the UK. Jamaican/Welsh parentage. Aged 16, 1988, my mum and dad sent me to New York for the six weeks summer holidays. I stayed with my aunt in South Bronx. That's when I got deep into hip hop. This reminds me of those times. So many adventures.

  • @seand8415
    @seand8415 4 года назад +594

    I’ve never been to New York in my life, but when I hear lyricists like Rakim and Nas, they verbally paint pictures of New York with their lyrics. For me, their voices, along with their flow, IS New York.

    • @ThePolominican
      @ThePolominican 4 года назад +19

      Salute King! This is why I Fell in Love wit Hip Hop back in 85. It’s Universal... It Ain’t Where Ya From It’s Where Ya @! ✌🏽

    • @SuperBabytee1
      @SuperBabytee1 3 года назад +9

      We all from different areas. Rah speaks about the nyc boroughs but he's a long island kid. We absolutely LOVE RAKIM

    • @ThePolominican
      @ThePolominican 3 года назад +2

      SuperBabytee1 .... Nahhhh... Rakim Allah.. The 7th Letter... The God Always S/O Strong Island!!! I know Nothing About L.I... But I’m A Die Hard Hip Hop Fan... Public Enemy/EPMD/K-Solo/Keith Murray/LONS/Busta Buss/Method Man... SIP Craig Mack... Get Well Soon To The LI Don.. That put ya on the map.... NOBODY (WILL EVER!) BEAT THE BIZ!!!

    • @lorigray1150
      @lorigray1150 3 года назад +5

      I've been twice and you're right, Rakim kills it!!!

    • @larryh2228
      @larryh2228 3 года назад +3

      I know exactly what you mean..when I went last year I finally felt it!

  • @albertsmith99
    @albertsmith99 4 года назад +342

    That sound engineer really deserves props for enhancing such beautiful sounds.

  • @robertosterman2503
    @robertosterman2503 Год назад +21

    It’s pure jazz in the background. My man is flowing over soulful jazz. This is music

  • @allviralaccessmedia3664
    @allviralaccessmedia3664 2 года назад +77

    Lyrical MASTERPIECE

    • @lakeisharobinson2132
      @lakeisharobinson2132 2 года назад +2

      Facts!!!

    • @supercap3000
      @supercap3000 2 года назад +6

      Lyrical masterpiece no doubt but remember everyone Rakim has an awesome flow and voice too

  • @MichaelDracula2000
    @MichaelDracula2000 4 года назад +230

    Ali Shaheed on bass, Kingfish on guitar and of course mr. Rakim on vocals... what a legenadary band. mind it guys!

    • @TrippiePineapplz
      @TrippiePineapplz 11 месяцев назад +2

      +Adrian Younge on keys🔥

    • @buddha757
      @buddha757 8 месяцев назад

      Priceless!

    • @veegob5287
      @veegob5287 7 месяцев назад

      @@TrippiePineapplzI was coming to say it.

  • @Itsme_1648
    @Itsme_1648 4 года назад +503

    Damn, his words are smooth like jazz.

    • @Landyachtz471
      @Landyachtz471 4 года назад +16

      The lyricists of the 90s are the equivelants of the jazz greats passed

    • @sharblades1582
      @sharblades1582 4 года назад +1

      Right

    • @makmak3081
      @makmak3081 4 года назад +6

      Rakim actually gets a lot of influence from jazz artists Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane. His flow is just impeccable.

    • @thegamingchef3304
      @thegamingchef3304 4 года назад

      He said he played the Sax so he just flowed to the beat like a sax player swingin to the beat.

    • @nicolasperkins5669
      @nicolasperkins5669 4 года назад

      Right? But of course

  • @Nkogneetoe
    @Nkogneetoe Год назад +106

    The God MC!! The invincible, microphone fiend, Rakim!! ✊🏽✊🏽

    • @Mr.EeToMyself
      @Mr.EeToMyself Год назад +2

      I just learned of him today.... my apologies.
      Shoutout to the guitarist.

    • @allemander
      @allemander 11 месяцев назад

      In E. F. F. E. C. T.
      A smooth operator -
      Operatin’ correctly.

  • @everydayPianoPractice
    @everydayPianoPractice Год назад +32

    Love to each and every one of these GREAT MUSICIANS - Rakim (vocals), Adrian Younge (keys), Ali Shaheed Muhammad (bass), Jack Waterson (guitar), David Henderson (drums), Loren Oden (vocals), Saudia Mills (vocals), Angela Munoz (vocals), Stephanie Yu (violin), Bryan Hernandez-Luch (violin), DeAndre Shaifer (trumpet) , Jordan Pettay (saxophone), Joi Gilliam (vocalist), Christone Ingram (Kingfish) (guitar).

  • @mok1453
    @mok1453 6 лет назад +266

    NPR IS INSANE FOR THIS!

    • @gabrielleelliott7388
      @gabrielleelliott7388 5 лет назад +3

      Yep

    • @kisswriters
      @kisswriters 4 года назад +3

      You're right, Abraham Sun. NPR deserves a lot of credit for giving Rakim this platform, great musical taste...

  • @DtMcNulty12
    @DtMcNulty12 6 лет назад +145

    We're witnessing the evolution of NPR Tiny Desk into its best form. This is the Tiny Desk golden age, ppl

  • @Sabidox-
    @Sabidox- Год назад +12

    I am 45 yo and a fan of Rakim since the late 80’s, Clean lyrics, clear decisive flow and legendary content , one of the best honorable MC’s ever, may god give you health old G. ❤

    • @firefox7696
      @firefox7696 Год назад

      43 yo.
      Paid in Full the first song I memorized

  • @Mona-ue5uk
    @Mona-ue5uk 2 года назад +30

    Rakim is so authentic! The band is LIVE!

  • @Slntpsych
    @Slntpsych 5 лет назад +604

    This is the only way Rakim should tour from now on. He deserves a full band.

    • @siyabongabhongoza8201
      @siyabongabhongoza8201 5 лет назад

      Slntpsych tupac started this

    • @chiz420420
      @chiz420420 5 лет назад

      Slntpsych agreed

    • @662chillin
      @662chillin 5 лет назад +7

      @@siyabongabhongoza8201 Actually Too Short is the first rapper to record an album with a live band (of course we know his early music was funk influenced so it's not surprising that live bands would be incorporated into his music)

    • @jwright8794
      @jwright8794 5 лет назад

      EXACTLY!!!!

    • @1p4p_akqb99
      @1p4p_akqb99 5 лет назад +2

      I legit thought this nigga was dead😂

  • @HacksawJimThuggin
    @HacksawJimThuggin 6 лет назад +324

    Rakim... We need more than 9 mins!!!

    • @DEVINEJUSTICEALLAH72
      @DEVINEJUSTICEALLAH72 6 лет назад +1

      Leroy Walker Jr FACTS!!

    • @thewriterdri
      @thewriterdri 6 лет назад +2

      Just disrespectful! They know we need more.

    • @turtleislandchief
      @turtleislandchief 6 лет назад

      Leroy Walker Jr Right!

    • @Wally-H
      @Wally-H 5 лет назад +3

      Agreed, I'd have liked Follow the Leader. Would have sounded great with the brass and strings live as they play a big part on that track. Ali could have played the bass synth part.

    • @tsadare11
      @tsadare11 5 лет назад +2

      He should had played follow the leader

  • @bigtay522
    @bigtay522 Год назад +11

    Being a blues head and a Kingfish fan made me a Rakim fan today.

  • @Major98
    @Major98 Год назад +32

    Rakim forever one of the pioneers and GOATs of rap

  • @OdinOfficialEmcee
    @OdinOfficialEmcee 3 года назад +494

    Even if he just does old songs, I want Rakim to release an album done like this, all live instruments. It sounds so dope and just elevates his songs to a whole other level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

    • @jamiej5229
      @jamiej5229 3 года назад +13

      you should listen to "school of hard knocks" the whole album is in that style and it is dope, even though its not rakim :)

    • @OdinOfficialEmcee
      @OdinOfficialEmcee 3 года назад +3

      @@jamiej5229 thanks for the reccomendation man, I'll check it out 🙂

    • @timekabolden5309
      @timekabolden5309 3 года назад +1

      🙌🙌🙌💯💯💯🎶👏🔥🔥🔥🔥😲

    • @yamtenfour
      @yamtenfour 3 года назад +1

      YES! Rakim, RA Orchestra & Flow

    • @jamestaylor841
      @jamestaylor841 2 года назад +3

      Ye ngl always knew he was an OG but think am just to young to get into his music on record but this was amazing

  • @Wayne-pr3ye
    @Wayne-pr3ye 4 года назад +527

    Is music not a beautiful thing when all cultures, all instruments and all ages coming together to make it happen

  • @TurkeyTurkey808
    @TurkeyTurkey808 2 года назад +25

    Kingfish and Rakim and the ensemble have made for some of the best versions of Rakim's songs!!!!! This is incredible

  • @bahiafromthehood
    @bahiafromthehood Год назад +15

    Who is still mesmerized by this performance in 2022? All hail the KING of legendary classical rap!

  • @nara0dhipa
    @nara0dhipa 6 лет назад +191

    you've outdone yourself npr!

    • @2211tomash
      @2211tomash 6 лет назад +1

      It’s because of Adrian Younge

  • @jakecowley5726
    @jakecowley5726 3 года назад +375

    I've seen him live in the UK, I was at the front and he shook my hand. I went on my own because none of my friends were hip hop heads, one of the best nights of my life. A true living legend.

    • @HOEA-WAKA
      @HOEA-WAKA 3 года назад +5

      💙💙 Niiice

    • @fahimaljahangir3059
      @fahimaljahangir3059 3 года назад +15

      yea mate i feel you. None of my friends are either. I go to shows by myself

    • @andythehumbleman3307
      @andythehumbleman3307 3 года назад +5

      U need new friend my g

    • @fahimaljahangir3059
      @fahimaljahangir3059 3 года назад +7

      @@andythehumbleman3307 ain't got time when you reach your 30s. It's all about money.

    • @andythehumbleman3307
      @andythehumbleman3307 3 года назад +1

      @@fahimaljahangir3059 tell me about it lol

  • @frankmerlino7534
    @frankmerlino7534 2 года назад +15

    This guy was so far ahead its Crazzzzy. The voice, the flow, lyrics, the way he phrazes and Where in the bar he chooses to put it is amazing. I cant believe this is from the 80's! Fire

  • @SalahadeenBetts
    @SalahadeenBetts Год назад +17

    I could watch him do his entire catalogue like this. Not sure how I missed this but thank you! The GOD MC.

  • @jaybee5832
    @jaybee5832 5 лет назад +158

    "Dig into my pockets all my money is spent."
    "I dig deeper still coming up with lint."
    One of my all time favorite lines.
    Long live the King Rakim.

    • @jimmyfelton2825
      @jimmyfelton2825 5 лет назад +7

      Rakim Allah

    • @brentchasm1167
      @brentchasm1167 4 года назад +11

      The man is telling straight fables of life. He is a fucking national treasure. A true artist.

    • @Jillady
      @Jillady 4 года назад +1

      jay bee hell yeah!!

    • @keithmoran5695
      @keithmoran5695 4 года назад +5

      I take 7 MC's put them in a line. Add 7 more brothers who think they can rhyme. It will take 7 more before I go for mine that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time. Coldest line in rap history.

    • @brentchasm1167
      @brentchasm1167 4 года назад +5

      @keith moran- “Because I'm number one, competition is none
      I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun.
      Whether playin ball or bobbin in the hall,
      I just writin my name in graffiti on the wall.
      You shouldn't have told me you said you control me...
      So now a contest is what you owe me.
      Pull out your money, pull out your cut,
      Pull up a chair, and I'ma tear shit up.
      My name is Rakim Allah, and R & A stands for "Ra"
      Switch it around, but still comes out aR.”
      The GOAT. The GAWD. Struggle, strife, the games...Rakim made it a verbal mosaic, and burned it down with that fire 🔥. Brother created, destroyed and still moves mountains with his words and flow. Peace y’all.

  • @jackgillespie3431
    @jackgillespie3431 6 лет назад +222

    Rakim needs to do an album with a live jazz band. This is dope!

    • @stephencarl7827
      @stephencarl7827 6 лет назад +9

      Remember the Jazzmatazz volumes that Guru put together? That shit was incredible.

    • @greedokenobi3855
      @greedokenobi3855 5 лет назад +1

      It would be 2nd nature for him. Maybe even 1st.

    • @marvinhagler4721
      @marvinhagler4721 5 лет назад

      EXACTLY bro..he STILL the TRUTH..

    • @EMMmaximino
      @EMMmaximino 5 лет назад

      i know ghostface did, and that shit is fucking fire.....

    • @siyabongabhongoza8201
      @siyabongabhongoza8201 5 лет назад

      Jack Gillespie tupac started that

  • @loristrode9556
    @loristrode9556 11 месяцев назад +12

    Hiphop needs to be shown in this light more often. I really feel it would make people that don't like hiphop to have a different understanding of it.

  • @abdobrahimi2551
    @abdobrahimi2551 2 года назад +17

    Rakim is untouchable.

  • @debmart59
    @debmart59 6 лет назад +806

    Hip Hop ... Rakim changed the game🎤🎧 AINT NO JOKE 🐐

  • @arttali81
    @arttali81 6 лет назад +374

    THAT BAND IS DANGEROUS!!!👌👍💪

  • @RuslanMykolaiv
    @RuslanMykolaiv 7 месяцев назад +12

    The first song is bomb, especially live variant!!! Respect. He is proving that rap is music

  • @martinhancock8633
    @martinhancock8633 Год назад +9

    The Violinists reaction once the Sax kicks in on Paid in Full says it all for me!
    Pure enjoyment, makes me smile 😊

  • @Smiff74
    @Smiff74 5 лет назад +593

    Ali Shahid Mohammed on bass....that is lethal.

  • @bryansimpson9858
    @bryansimpson9858 3 года назад +94

    You can smell the streets of New York through his lyrics. He’s a God MC. One of the smoothest to do it.

  • @davidsantini4496
    @davidsantini4496 Год назад +7

    How I enjoyed this. For a minute I was back in 86 passing some 40’s around with my crew back in The Bronx. Beautiful time. Glad I survived it. Rakim was everywhere. Thanks King. ☝️🇵🇷

  • @leematthews5142
    @leematthews5142 Год назад +10

    Love seeing Ali Shaheed on the bass❤️

  • @gdiggedy9
    @gdiggedy9 5 лет назад +184

    Ra's vocals haven't aged at all. Exact same as they were in 86'. He sounds exactly the same. Amazing!!!

    • @keithmoran5695
      @keithmoran5695 4 года назад +6

      Just saw Rakim a month ago. It was like being a time machine. Rakim is still smooth like butter.

    • @brentchasm1167
      @brentchasm1167 4 года назад +1

      The man has ascended to an Elder Master. His word is hip-hop scripture. You can see the craft and talent just exude from him. Still humble at that.

  • @90geek90
    @90geek90 4 года назад +469

    That big dude killed it with his guitar solo, fuuuuuuuuuuu!!!!

    • @kwamestamps35
      @kwamestamps35 4 года назад +103

      That's the mighty Kingfish on guitar.

    • @SlickDanger
      @SlickDanger 4 года назад +47

      I need him and Thundercat to get on some bs together

    • @masonjohnston2427
      @masonjohnston2427 4 года назад +16

      My man Kingfishhhh

    • @Boomslang1
      @Boomslang1 4 года назад +3

      @MiNd Of MaVeRiCk living legend Christone is. Dude's a monster on the strum

    • @fayate_6984
      @fayate_6984 4 года назад +1

      Same thing I'm sayingggggg

  • @sipha_102
    @sipha_102 11 месяцев назад +9

    I'm having goosebumps...literally. OMG, this is pure gold from the golden age of hip hop.
    He really inspired and influenced some of best rap artist, like Notorious B.I.G., Nas, Eminem Jay-Z, etc.
    with this live instrumental built, everithing is perfect. absolutely amazing

  • @AzraelJLH
    @AzraelJLH 2 месяца назад +4

    Kingfish on the guitar with Rakim!!!!! That's hard

  • @olandsmith2660
    @olandsmith2660 4 года назад +308

    Never needs to curse. Man this man is smooth.

    • @digitalomen2013
      @digitalomen2013 4 года назад +6

      Man's a legend

    • @olandsmith2660
      @olandsmith2660 4 года назад +1

      @@digitalomen2013 100%

    • @patjenkins1308
      @patjenkins1308 3 года назад +4

      If I'm not mistaken know the ledge is the only song where he uses the n-word

    • @macd95
      @macd95 3 года назад +10

      when he came out most people didnt curse alot on records. But he did curse on records, I dont know why everybody says he never had to curse. That was from an incorrect meme. peep Mahogany, my melody, and a few others, but when you put it up against todays music forget about it....

    • @exoticcar5482
      @exoticcar5482 3 года назад +1

      @@macd95 Seems like cussing in hip hop and music in general didn't become common until NWA made it big

  • @angelreed2276
    @angelreed2276 6 лет назад +64

    A poetic genius, full string section, real fender Rhodes, fantastic guitar and bass; NPR you have outdone yourselves! We cannot thank you enough for what you do for music culture

    • @jjaywill
      @jjaywill 6 лет назад

      Well put!

    • @DogZy9
      @DogZy9 6 лет назад +1

      I agree. And we need Hiatus Kaiyote here!!

    • @angelreed2276
      @angelreed2276 6 лет назад +1

      Absolutely! Choose Your Weapon is my shit fr

    • @DogZy9
      @DogZy9 6 лет назад +1

      Joshua Reed Yes bro, I tweeted that same thing and got a like from Lianne La Havas, so it means something lol.
      I love all from them, cant wait for new album. Nai laid vocals for new Drake track, but did not listen to it yet...

    • @durandfrierson4113
      @durandfrierson4113 26 дней назад

      00😊0😊000​@@DogZy9

  • @louisdelsarto1374
    @louisdelsarto1374 2 года назад +10

    WoW!! Rakim sounds unreal. His flow is as good as ever. And ever is the best!!

  • @adropofgoldensun27
    @adropofgoldensun27 2 года назад +13

    I must take the time to thank NPR music Tiny Desk Concerts for all the Excellent music on RUclips!
    👍👏👏👏

  • @johng.6129
    @johng.6129 5 лет назад +128

    I'm sure I'm not the first to notice this, but that's 'Kingfish' Ingram on guitar. Dude is incredible and he's only 20.

    • @ASSman864
      @ASSman864 5 лет назад +2

      Yea i remember his videos from awhile back and i was talking to him about big pun so i know he loves hip hop so this must have been a crazy moment for him

    • @dr6209
      @dr6209 4 года назад

      They both did musical features on Luke Cage as well.

    • @townman1
      @townman1 4 года назад +1

      Dude sick fa real !

    • @Y20XTongvaLand
      @Y20XTongvaLand 4 года назад

      Fat bol? He's fucking sick. Thanks for the name!

  • @khrashingphantom9632
    @khrashingphantom9632 3 года назад +425

    Rakim is legendary for a reason. The only thing that makes me especially sad is that "hip hop at large" will only care about him after he passes away. Even in his own city they will only play his music on the radio in memoriam. Love the greats while they're here, acknowledge their trailblazing, and don't write off the vary talent they often still retain in spite their are. Thanks for posting. This was soul food.

    • @johnwalter5875
      @johnwalter5875 2 года назад +2

      Indeed.. Deserves "Heart Beat Props" ....( Digital Under Ground...Son of the P )

    • @kelsoulforreal1
      @kelsoulforreal1 2 года назад +2

      Preach !! This is what’s wrong with “music “ as we speak

    • @dp7047
      @dp7047 Год назад +2

      💯

    • @IMONTHEROOF
      @IMONTHEROOF Год назад +1

      well said

    • @dreskyline5450
      @dreskyline5450 11 месяцев назад +1

      Facts facts

  • @stereomagic1
    @stereomagic1 9 месяцев назад +7

    Impeccable behaviour. Rakim was the inventor of 'flow' in Rap. Amazing band in this performance too. Love from England to you ALL!

  • @acendedlion9767
    @acendedlion9767 Год назад +13

    Rakim truly broke the on beat rhymes from early 80's such a EPMD, Grand Masta Flash, Sugar Hill gang, but RAKIM changed it into actual flow, rhyming on and off beat, creating flows that weave in and out of the rhythm. He was the chosen one. Legend with no exaggeration and no equal. - Lion

  • @carytowncat
    @carytowncat 4 года назад +66

    Rakim won't ever know how he helped save a young white cats life back in the 80s. A sony walkman and a Eric B and Rakim tape playing while i walked through the one night. Man i was in so much pain, but Rakim kept saying "maybe i might just search for a 9 to 5, cuz if i thrive maybe i'll stay alive as i walk through the streets whistling this, feeling out of place..." I can't even listen to it, had to ff through it. I don't ever want to be there again. Much love homie. Thank you for keeping it authentic.

  • @MattSofianosGuitar
    @MattSofianosGuitar 2 года назад +208

    Ali Shahid Muhammad on bass. This is pure class

    • @ivanlowjones
      @ivanlowjones 3 месяца назад +3

      I never knew he played bass.

  • @Hughesless4086
    @Hughesless4086 2 года назад +10

    This man is the absolute definition of hip hop.

  • @sadmansakib2266
    @sadmansakib2266 2 года назад +4

    have y'all noticed that shaheed ali doesn't seem to age

  • @connorp3030
    @connorp3030 6 лет назад +84

    Rakim is a legend, he elevated rap by writing bars that contained many multi syllable rhymes which rhymed with the next bar as well as other words in that bar (internal rhymes), which is what creates that sweet sound of flow. Ultimately he sounded so incredible that everyone started doing what he was doing, and that's why he's really most influential emcee ever.

    • @TheeDuhscientist
      @TheeDuhscientist 6 лет назад +2

      Indeed!

    • @damiantv2760
      @damiantv2760 6 лет назад

      gj watching vox

    • @GODHATESADOPTION
      @GODHATESADOPTION 6 лет назад +3

      connorp3030 exactly assonance and alliteration

    • @marLamaDeo
      @marLamaDeo 6 лет назад

      Wize One Writing and MCing has gotten better and better, it’s better now than it ever was. Those who followed Rakim definitely surpassed him

    • @marLamaDeo
      @marLamaDeo 6 лет назад +2

      Nas for one?

  • @jamesgunz944
    @jamesgunz944 6 лет назад +127

    *Wow, the God Rakim!..* ..
    The best 9 minutes I've spent on RUclips in years!

    • @dublinrupepupkin
      @dublinrupepupkin 6 лет назад

      Same here. Had to make it into 18 minutes.

    • @joshkroenke7693
      @joshkroenke7693 5 лет назад +2

      James Gunz, yes sir. I totally agree. I’m not consumed by social media like my younger counterparts...
      However, I gave my staff an extra 10 minutes added to their tea break time, just so I could go watch this without any distractions. Rakim is a lyrical genius, and was clearly ahead of his time!

  • @-love-life3267
    @-love-life3267 2 года назад +5

    I need this to be a Tour. Bring everyone involved along. Charge whatever you want. I’m there! This was amazing. G.O.A.T

  • @mrdjhex
    @mrdjhex Год назад +5

    How good was know the ledge, RKin still got it after all these years! Real lyricist with flow..not many around nowadays! Big props to Rakim

  • @TechOutAdam
    @TechOutAdam 2 года назад +194

    Rakim is the epitome of what it means to be hard in hip hop. No one will ever duplicate his vibe.

    • @Rocanala
      @Rocanala 7 месяцев назад +4

      Effortless. Completely natural 💯

  • @LGKids
    @LGKids 4 года назад +225

    Dude like a Professor teaching a college course on Ryhming! Peace!

    • @corneilmadison9436
      @corneilmadison9436 4 года назад

      Yess

    • @stevemelendez
      @stevemelendez 4 года назад

      AMEN!! Word life!!!

    • @johermeah6540
      @johermeah6540 4 года назад +2

      With Nas as his star student graduating with high honours, and then teaching a whole bunch of others.

  • @MentalStillness
    @MentalStillness Год назад +5

    Rakim the God Mc brought along young Blues great Christone Kingfish Ingram. Amazing from start to finish. Live instruments give new life to these classic tunes. Well done Ra, Kingfish, the band and thank you NPR.

  • @kayl2141
    @kayl2141 Год назад +6

    When your music never gets old so people will still be listening to it in spirit!! Can we have a soul clap for the band too because they tight AF!

  • @PatShun
    @PatShun 5 лет назад +341

    That guitar player tho...🔥🔥🔥

    • @ernestivanreyes2876
      @ernestivanreyes2876 5 лет назад +27

      Kingfish Ingram is the name he had a great voice too.

    • @musicismypassion1994
      @musicismypassion1994 4 года назад +8

      Kingfish is such an amazing guitar player, he has some of Hendrix soul in him.

    • @stevedalton7885
      @stevedalton7885 4 года назад +3

      yeah kingfish man. Hes the man

    • @carltonblend
      @carltonblend 4 года назад +4

      5:30 look at that kid's face lol dude already a legend

    • @jamesjohnson1522
      @jamesjohnson1522 4 года назад +2

      Kingfish is one of the best modern blues artists running around.

  • @jankomango
    @jankomango 5 лет назад +187

    Wish GURU was here ........., still legends , Rakim forever God of flow

    • @PaulMatthewMusic1
      @PaulMatthewMusic1 5 лет назад +2

      That would have been super epic

    • @poerava
      @poerava 5 лет назад

      1. Rakim
      2. BIG
      3. Nas
      4. KRS1
      5. Black Thought
      6. Kool G rap
      7. Slick Rick
      8. Big Daddy Kane
      9. Wu tang clan (Genius, GFK, Method top3)
      10. Kendrick Lamar
      11. Andre 3000
      12. Chuck D
      13. Common
      14. Big L
      15. Big pun
      16. Redman
      17. Mos Def
      18. Gangstarr
      19. Guru
      20. Busta
      21. Q tip
      22. Lupe fiasco
      23. Posdnuos
      24. AZ
      25. J cole
      26. MF Doom
      27. Eric sermon
      28. Ice cube
      Honourable mention: Phife Dogg, EPMD, Sugar Hill gang, DAS EFX, Onyx, souls of mischief, Del the funky homosapien, digable planets, pharcyde, Cabibus, Jay Z, Jeru the damaja, naughty by nature, killa priest, Capone n noreaga, Mobb deep, Dogg pound, Tupac, warren G, mac10, Tim Dogg. Jadakiss, Fabulous, Jurassic 5, jungle brothers, Ludacris, channel live, young MC, Kanye west, Eminem, bizmarkie, fuschnikens, snoop, cypress hill.
      Please note.
      Never to be mentioned in the top 1000 MC’s:
      Drake

    • @snuffslopez2336
      @snuffslopez2336 3 года назад

      @@PaulMatthewMusic1 like super super epic

  • @32jamieb
    @32jamieb Год назад +6

    Rakim will always be one of my favorite MCs of all time to have been able to enjoy these greats during the Golden Era I was so privileged to pay homage to this King and give him his flowers while he was able to smell them! Salute to a legend! ✊🏽✊🏽

  • @MrNelahem
    @MrNelahem 7 месяцев назад +6

    This needed to be way longer sooo good. Rakim a legend!

  • @NothingButTheNews247
    @NothingButTheNews247 3 года назад +636

    MIND BLOWN! I CAN'T BELIEVE I AM JUST NOW SEEING THIS! I LOVE RAKIM AND KINGFISH AND JUST LEARNED ABOUT THIS TODAY! AMAZING!

    • @atonegames
      @atonegames 3 года назад +7

      Right on brother, this is just amazing. Next level. All around class fine wine

    • @NickDvolleyball
      @NickDvolleyball 3 года назад +10

      I listen to this set like once a week! Glad you found it

    • @MsQ9677
      @MsQ9677 3 года назад +2

      Same

    • @donnellynell
      @donnellynell 3 года назад +2

      I feel the same

    • @hvacjay4037
      @hvacjay4037 3 года назад +7

      I know! I just saw it myself. Rakim is one of the dopest emcees ever.

  • @bigdawg4614
    @bigdawg4614 4 года назад +85

    Man when and how did this band come together!!! And soooo nobody gonna acknowledge Ali and kingfish is play bass and guitar in it!!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

  • @squizzyrecka
    @squizzyrecka Год назад +3

    Rakim said that he played in a jazzband in school and he eventually applied that knowledge to rap , which changed basic rap rhythm forever. Ive never seen him live but so good to see how he controled his flow and projection next to super tight group. You can really sees he knows what hes doing

  • @nodfactor8808
    @nodfactor8808 Год назад +5

    Know the Ledge! That bass intro still gives me chills!

  • @Gabriel-gv1mx
    @Gabriel-gv1mx 3 года назад +125

    You don't go to see Rakim; Rakim goes to see you. Just as Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel prize in Literature, so too should Rakim for his poetic contribution to Hip-Hop. In God we trust. Peace fron Australia✌

  • @eugenepinex5002
    @eugenepinex5002 4 года назад +325

    It’s so sad that hip hop don’t celebrate him at all#One of my favorites🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

    • @donellis5005
      @donellis5005 4 года назад +9

      Rakim is Trueblood Hip Hop all killer no filler this industry is just rap all filler no killer but I wish him and Dr.Dre could have completed their project I think it would have been colossal cuz I heard one leaked song and it was amazing

    • @mikeychainsaw9760
      @mikeychainsaw9760 4 года назад +6

      Because this the hip pop era hip hop is comatose right

    • @ThaDON40
      @ThaDON40 4 года назад +10

      Watchu talking bout brah..rakim gets saluted daily...come to Boston .the Bean loves Ra

    • @Jillady
      @Jillady 4 года назад +1

      Eugene Pinex Eminem does.

    • @eillwill3144
      @eillwill3144 4 года назад +4

      One of the best who ever do it 💯💯💯💯💯

  • @1963hardtop
    @1963hardtop 2 года назад +6

    Unbelievable all-star backing band!

  • @juliusa4583
    @juliusa4583 3 месяца назад +3

    The rhythm section was sick…🎹

  • @grendelz
    @grendelz 5 лет назад +230

    This is one of the greatest things. Rakim is the #1 lyricist ever. and with live music he's even greater.

    • @dmoore4520
      @dmoore4520 5 лет назад +5

      Absolutely not #1 lyricist ever... he's just a classic. I ain't tryna take away from legends but shit got so much more intricate with hip hop over time

    • @Jspore-ip5rk
      @Jspore-ip5rk 5 лет назад +2

      @@dmoore4520 i think you haven't heard some of his intricate songs, just sayin

    • @chip12424
      @chip12424 5 лет назад +1

      @@dmoore4520 Who? Follow the Leader youngin!

    • @nihilist3915
      @nihilist3915 5 лет назад +4

      You can’t compare talent but he’s mostly respected as the ultimate goat.

    • @islamadibul
      @islamadibul 4 года назад +2

      With MF DOOMs discography, no other rapper can take the title of best lyricist ever

  • @Rennyblue
    @Rennyblue 5 лет назад +1478

    Why isn't anybody mentioning the sick solo from that dude that makes his guitar look like a tooth pick 2:00

  • @Auntkekebaby
    @Auntkekebaby Год назад +3

    Let's be CRYSTAL!! Rakim is the Marlon Brando. From then on, MCs knew the possibilities.

  • @irishflutegirl9022
    @irishflutegirl9022 Год назад +9

    I’d LOVE to be in that band behind him ! ⭐️

  • @TheLobMob
    @TheLobMob 6 лет назад +167

    Rakim's next album needs to sound just like this...

    • @MediaOneENT
      @MediaOneENT 5 лет назад +8

      Agree with these musicians backing him again. Really digging this here.

    • @eugenevalentine925
      @eugenevalentine925 5 лет назад +4

      give me solid 5 or 6 song EP is this and he can have my $10

    • @abdullahdacoola5388
      @abdullahdacoola5388 5 лет назад +4

      The Lob Mob you spike the truth ...this new rap is wack as crack

    • @jamelbowser3788
      @jamelbowser3788 5 лет назад

      Yep yep YEP!!!!

    • @frankylo_4802
      @frankylo_4802 5 лет назад +1

      Agreed

  • @andjelkozlotvor
    @andjelkozlotvor 2 года назад +259

    00:00 "King's Paradise"
    03:06 "Paid In Full"
    05:47 "Know The Ledge"

    • @austinmonroe3894
      @austinmonroe3894 2 года назад +4

      ❤️❤️❤️💯

    • @OtherMike5000
      @OtherMike5000 Год назад +1

      The REAL hero!

    • @xenoblack3
      @xenoblack3 Год назад +11

      Not needed for Rakim. This is not someone you fast forward on.

    • @edn3rd
      @edn3rd Год назад +4

      @@xenoblack3what if you wanna rewind lol this perfect for that

    • @g..._anthony27
      @g..._anthony27 10 месяцев назад

      🍪🍪🍪

  • @hyphen2612
    @hyphen2612 Год назад +3

    This concert should've been two hours. I can listen to this all week!