You can't have 12 records on your album and none of them sound alike. You gotta kind of have something to make… — Rakim Copy Share Image
In New York, they kind of rode with me from day one: they understand who I am. — Rakim Copy Share Image
I was heavily influenced by Melle Mel, Kool Moe Dee, Grandmaster Caz, but I kind of wanted to take it somewhere else. — Rakim Copy Share Image
Back in the day, music imitated life. Now it's the opposite way around: life is imitating music. It's like whatever the rappers… — Rakim Copy Share Image
I always wanted to kind of make the listener feel like it was them that I was talking about, or to the… — Rakim Copy Share Image
I love Jay-Z, I love Kanye, and I praise the way he's been able to bring more business out of the jungle. — Rakim Copy Share Image
Elements burst, gave birth the the verse, get the pen from the nurse, but hook the mic up first. — Rakim Copy Share Image
I think rap was a better move for me but football's been my love since I learned how to walk. I was gonna be… — Rakim Copy Share Image
There are certain things that I wish people knew - certain things that I feel I started and certain things that I'm responsible for.… — Rakim Copy Share Image
So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents — Rakim Copy Share Image
My approach to writing rhymes went hand in hand with the music. I'd try to make different rhythms with my rhymes on the track… — Rakim Copy Share Image
My whole thing is if it wasn't for people like ya'll and people like them I wouldn't be me. I love every minute of… — Rakim Copy Share Image
