During the month-long residency of the Red Bull Music Academy’s throughout New York City, noted journalist Jeff “Chairman” Mao conducted an in-depth, nearly 2-hour long sit-down “lecture” with Rakim, the Long Island lyricist heralded by many as hip hop’s holy “God MC.”
The far ranging talk touched upon all aspects of Rakim’s iconic career, including his early days, the split with Eric B, the meaning behind many of his historic lines, and working with Dr. Dre in what ended up being a sputtering attempt at something of a comeback.
Despite setbacks and modern hip hop’s shunning of its elders, no matter their stature, Rakim still remains an enigmatic, respected an insightful artist, and this lecture provides a great look into his life and times.
WATCH: Red Bull Music Academy – Lecture: Rakim (New York, 2013)