“One of the leading figures during hip-hop’s golden age… the best rapper of all time.” – AllMusic
Few artists have had as great an impact on the development and progression of hip-hop as Rakim Allah. Critics, fans, and peers universally reference him as one of the Masters of the Microphone and an influence and inspiration.
Rakim first exploded onto the scene with the release of 1986’s iconic “Eric B. is President”. There, the single marked a turning point in the rap world. Further, it raised the bar for future emcees and revolutionized how emcees deliver rhymes to this day. No serious discussion of the music’s greatest performers takes place without a deferential accounting of his achievements.
Rakim’s intricately intellectual lyrics draw their force from his worldly experience, inner faith and progressive contemplation. Here, many imitate his liquid and seemingly effortless delivery, but no one rivals it. It comes from a fire fueled by a deep understanding of not just hip-hop but also jazz and R&B influences. His recordings – including classics Paid In Full, Follow the Leader and The 18th Letter – have sold multi-millions worldwide. Billboard, Rolling Stone, MTV and others consistently refer to Paid in Full as “the greatest hip-hop album of all time”.
Recent honors include The Source naming him Number One Lyricist of All Time. Also, he received the BET Lifetime Achievement Award. Here, Rakim Allah continues to lead where others just follow.
Room3 blends tradition and experimentation as a jazz fusion wild card. They craft an imaginative, melodic and rhythmically sharp sound, mixing elements of contemporary jazz, prog rock, funk and more. Additionally, First Avenue recently selected them as one of its “Best New Bands of 2024.” Their debut album, Bill’s Garden, is out now.
Recommended for fans of Eric B. and Rakim, EPMD, De La Soul and The Pharcyde.
