1997 was the perfect time for Rakim to return to the hip hop scene. the current crop of New York street rappers Nas, The Notorious BIG & Jay-Z had all followed the trailblaze by Rakim. while other 80's pioneers had flows that weren't adaptable to modern beats, "The 18th Letter" proves that Rakim's style was perfectly suited to the era's preeminent producers. whether he's working with the no-nonsense cuts of DJ Premier or Pete Rock's smoky, sealthy jazz loops. Rakim's voice is in the hanger on which these beats are draped. he remains a commanding presence without restoring to swearing or sensationalistic crime tales. the listener believes in him because his words exude experience and wisdom. one of 1997's best rap albums. what's y'all thoughts on this album???!!!... #rakim #the18thletter #eastcoasthiphop #longislandNY #ra #theR #kidwizard #ericbandrakim #guesswhosback #itsbeenalongtime #classic #legendary #90shiphop #realhiphoponly #fuckmumblerap #1997
