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7:10 | 
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from American Psycho (아메리칸 사이코) by John Cale [ost] (2000)
[Eric B]: Yo Rakim what's up?
[Rakim]: Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full [E]: Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? [R]: True [E]: Kara Lewis is our agent [R]: Word up [E]: Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company [R]: Indeed [E]: Okay so who we rollin with? [R]: We rollin with Rush [E]: Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... [Rakim] Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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7:10 |
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from Brown Sugar (브라운 슈가) by Robert Hurst [ost] (2002)
[Eric B]: Yo Rakim what's up?
[Rakim]: Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full [E]: Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? [R]: True [E]: Kara Lewis is our agent [R]: Word up [E]: Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company [R]: Indeed [E]: Okay so who we rollin with? [R]: We rollin with Rush [E]: Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... [Rakim] Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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4:43 |
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| from Grand Theft Auto [ost] (2004) | |||||
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2:29 |
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| from Take The Lead (2006) | |||||
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3:56 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I ain't no joke, I use to let the mic smoke
Now I slam it when I'm done and make sure it's broke When i'm gone no one gets on cuz I won't let Nobody press up and mess up the seen I set I like to stand in a crowd and watch the people wonder damn But think about it then you'll understand I'm just an addict addicted to music Maybe it's a habit, I gotta use it Even if it's jazz or the quiet storm I hook a beat up convert it into hip-hop form Write a rhyme in graffitti in every show you see me in Deep concentration, cuz I'm no comedian Jokers are wild if you wanna be tamed I treat you like a child then you're gonna be named Another enemy, not even a friend of me Cuz you'll get fried in the end when you pretend to be Competin' cuz I just put your mind on pause and I complete when - you compare my rhyme wit yours I wake you up and as I stare in your face you seem stunned Remember me, the one you got your idea from But soon you start to suffer, the tune'll get rougher When you start to stutter that's when you had enuff of Biting, it'll make you choke, you can't provoke You can't cope, you should've broke because I ain't no joke I got a question, as serious as cancer Who can keep the average dancer Hyper as a heart attack nobody smiling Cuz you're expressing the rhyme that I'm styling This is what we all sit down to write You can't make it so you take it home, break it and bite Use pieces and bits of all the hip-hop hits Get the style down pat then it's time to switch Put my tape on pause and add some more to yours Then you fake it you're ready for the neighborhood chores The E-M-C-E-E don't even try to be When you come up to speak, don't even lie to me You like to exaggerate, dream and imaginate Then change the rhyme around, that can aggravate me So when you see me come up, freeze Or you'll be one of those 7 MC's They think that I'm a new jack but only if they knew that They who think wrong are they who can't do that Style that I'm doing, they might ruin Patterns and paragraphs based on you and Your offbeat DJ, if anything he play Sound familiar, I'll wait til E say Play 'em, so I'ma have to diss and bro You could get a smack for this, I ain't no joke I hold the microphone like a grudge B'll hold the record so the needle don't budge I hold a conversation cuz when I invent I nominated my DJ to president When I'm see I'll, keep a freestyle, going steadily So pucker up and whistle my melody But whatever you do, don't miss one They'll be another rough rhyme after this one Before you know it, you're following and fiending Waiting for the punchline to get the meaning Like before the middle of my story I'm telling Nobody beats the R so stop yelling Save it, put it in your pocket for later Cuz I'm moving the crowd and B'll wreck the fader No interruptions til the mic is broke When I'm gone, then you can joke Cuz everything is real on a serious tip Keep playing and I varies quick And take you for a walk through hell Freeze your dome then watch your eyeballs swell Guide you out of triple stage darkness When it get dark again then I'ma spark this Microphone cuz the heat is on, you see smoke then I finish when the beat is gone, I'm no joke |
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3:44 |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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6:47 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin knowledge be born, and my name's the R A-k-i-m, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list That's what I'm sayin, I drop science like a scientist My melody's in a code, the very next episode Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder The listener's system is kickin' like solar As I memorize, advertise, like a poet Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be Nobody beats the R, check out my melody So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it, Let 'My Melody' play, then a record suggest it I'm droppin bombs, but I stay peace and calm Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait I won't push, I won't beat around the bush I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to You might try but you can't get close to Because I'm number one, competition is none I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun 'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall Or just writin my name in graffiti on the wall You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me So now a contest is what you owe me Pull out your money, pull out your cut Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra Switch it around, it still comes out R So easily will I e-m-c-e-e My repetition of words is check out my melody Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak shit Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rockin party to party, backyard to yard I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp I can swing off anything even a string of a harp Just turn it on and start rockin, mine, no introduction 'Til I finish droppin science, no interruption When I approach I exercise like a coach Usin' a melody and add new verse(?) and notes So when the mic and the R-a-k-i-m It's attached, like a match I will strike again Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter, A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor Melody arranger, poet, etcetera Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus I am the man they call the microphonist With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin' I came to express the rap I manifest Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest MC's that wanna be vissed(?), they're gonna Be dissed if they don't get from in fronta All they can go get is me a glass of Moet A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet I take 7 MC's put 'em in a line And add 7 more brothas who think they can rhyme Well, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine Now that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin' No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin' No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why bother This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow My unusual style will confuse you a while And if I was water, I'd flow in the Nile So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours Just because of applause I have to pause Right after tonight is when I prepare To catch another sucka duck MC out there 'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe And after this you'll call me your majesty My melody Yes, my melody Eric B. Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it Eric B. made a cut and advertised it My melody's created for MC's in the place They try to listen cuz I'm dissin them so pick up your face Shook off your neck cuz you try to detect my pace Now you're buggin', almost doggin' off my rhyme-like bass The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin Rough enough to break New York from Long Island My wisdom is swift, no matter if My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff I'm genuine like leather - reclined to be clever MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say "Oh never" So Eric B., cut it easily and check out my melody... |
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4:47 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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3:47 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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3:51 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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4:00 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Knowledge will begin until I finish this song
'Cuz the rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme goes on You sweat as you step about to get hype Or should you just listen to the man on the mic You're physically in this with me but how could you tell If it's meant to be hip hop if you're not mentally as well Ready to absorb the rhyme that I just poured Into the mic and so unite and this won't be so bored If you just keep kickin' listen - to the mix And think you'll sink into the rhyme like quicksand Holds and controls you 'til I leave You fall deeper in the style - it's hard to breathe The only time I stop is when somebody drop and then Bring 'em to the front 'cuz my rhymes' the oxygen Then wave your hands - when you're ready I'll send you Into your favorite dance so let the rhyme continue And so on and I'ma go on simultaneously And even if I stop - the rhyme remains to be Rising to the top - and I came to drop it Catch it and quiz it - is my topic Universual 'cuz I move everybody to come By exercising your mind you'll coincide as one You look around and see how packed the party starts to get I draw a crowd - like an architect The five borroughs react and all the islands attract And every state can't wait - so they attack off a spot on the floor - squeeze in cuz it's packed It'll be more room if MC's play the back I'm the R the A to the K-I-M If I wasn't, then why would I say I am The microphone fiend if I was a fake Whoever said it's just buggin' off the rhymes I make I had you biting your tongue for what I brung and recite Sung it on stage some said it don't sound like The voice on the record - I see what you mean Because the system was wack, so I had to scream So just - give me a mic if it's loud I'll blow it If not - into the crowd I'll throw it Pull out my cordless mic and entertain you well Before I let go I'ma spark your brain cells I took time to write - tonight I will recite So poetically inclined when the mic is held tight Rhymes start flowin' kisses are blowin MC's are knowin' that's why they're goin Home to tell a friend when the party ends "Yo, man you know Rakim? That brother struck again" Cuz mic by mic and stage by stage, Tape by tape and page by page, When the crowd is moving I compete with the mix The rougher the cuts - the rougher the rhyme gets Deeper and Deeper - I hope you understand it I made it up myself and I planned it For other MC's who waste time Writing jokes, riddles, and maybe a rhyme I cross my arms and I was waiting - but I was hating The rappers on the microphone was fronting - just faking They wasn't breakin', which means I was achin' To get up on the microphone and then start takin' Control of the mic - uptight when I grabbed it So hug the speaker- your ear's a magnet Attracted to a freestyle put in effect You listen to my man while you're sippin' Moet So Eric, pick up the needle (yeah) put it in the middle (ahhight) Give me a scratch, turn my Mic up a little, I want you to hear this perfectly clear Catch what I'm sayin'? You get the idea? I hope you knowledge the beginning cuz I'm finished this song The rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme flows on... |
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4:09 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's not your situation
I just need contemplation over you Over you I'm not so systematic It's just that I'm an addict for your love yeah I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Just think how long I've known ya It's wrong for me to own you lock and key Lock and key It's really not confusin' I'm just a young illusion can't you see, yeah, well I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm Oh, oh, oh It's not your situation I just need contemplation over you Over you I'm not so systematic It's just that I'm an addict for your love, yeah I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm Why ya wanna make them Oh make them cry (No) Oh, whoa whoa (Why) Kiss the girls Why ya wanna Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm |
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6:19 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I came in the door, I said it before
I never let the mic magnetize me no more But it's biting me, fighting me, inviting me to rhyme I can't hold it back, I'm looking for the line, Taking off my coat, clearing my throat The rhyme will be kicking it until I hit my last note My mind remains to find all kinda ideas Self-esteem makes it seem like a thought took years to build But still say a rhyme after the next one Prepared, never scared, I'll just bless one And you know that I'm the soloist So Eric B, make 'em clap to this I don't bug out or chill or be acting ill No tricks in '86, it's time to build Eric B easy on the cut, no mistakes allowed Cuz to me, MC means move the crowd I made it easy to dance to this But can you detect what's coming next from the flex of the wrist Say "Indeed" then I proceed cuz my man made a mix If he bleed he won't need no band-aid to fix his fingertips, so I rhyme until there's no rhymes left I hurry up because the cut will make him bleed to death But he's kicking it cuz it ain't no half steppin' The party is live, the Rak can't be kept inside if he's eruptin' just like a volcano It ain't the everyday style or the same old rhyme Cuz I'm better then the rest of them Eric B is on the cut and my name is Rakim Go get a girl and get soft and warm, Don't get excited, you've been invited to a quiet storm But now it's out of hand cuz you told me you hate me And then you ask what have I done lately First you said all you want is love and affection Let me be your angel and I'll be your protection Take you out, buy you all kinds of things You caught an attitude, you need food to eat up I'm scheming like I'm dreaming on a couch wit my feet up You scream I'm lazy, you must be crazy Thought I was a donut, you tried to glaze me |
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3:52 |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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7:12 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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4:56 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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4:25 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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5:15 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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6:12 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Knowledge will begin until I finish this song
'Cuz the rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme goes on You sweat as you step about to get hype Or should you just listen to the man on the mic You're physically in this with me but how could you tell If it's meant to be hip hop if you're not mentally as well Ready to absorb the rhyme that I just poured Into the mic and so unite and this won't be so bored If you just keep kickin' listen - to the mix And think you'll sink into the rhyme like quicksand Holds and controls you 'til I leave You fall deeper in the style - it's hard to breathe The only time I stop is when somebody drop and then Bring 'em to the front 'cuz my rhymes' the oxygen Then wave your hands - when you're ready I'll send you Into your favorite dance so let the rhyme continue And so on and I'ma go on simultaneously And even if I stop - the rhyme remains to be Rising to the top - and I came to drop it Catch it and quiz it - is my topic Universual 'cuz I move everybody to come By exercising your mind you'll coincide as one You look around and see how packed the party starts to get I draw a crowd - like an architect The five borroughs react and all the islands attract And every state can't wait - so they attack off a spot on the floor - squeeze in cuz it's packed It'll be more room if MC's play the back I'm the R the A to the K-I-M If I wasn't, then why would I say I am The microphone fiend if I was a fake Whoever said it's just buggin' off the rhymes I make I had you biting your tongue for what I brung and recite Sung it on stage some said it don't sound like The voice on the record - I see what you mean Because the system was wack, so I had to scream So just - give me a mic if it's loud I'll blow it If not - into the crowd I'll throw it Pull out my cordless mic and entertain you well Before I let go I'ma spark your brain cells I took time to write - tonight I will recite So poetically inclined when the mic is held tight Rhymes start flowin' kisses are blowin MC's are knowin' that's why they're goin Home to tell a friend when the party ends "Yo, man you know Rakim? That brother struck again" Cuz mic by mic and stage by stage, Tape by tape and page by page, When the crowd is moving I compete with the mix The rougher the cuts - the rougher the rhyme gets Deeper and Deeper - I hope you understand it I made it up myself and I planned it For other MC's who waste time Writing jokes, riddles, and maybe a rhyme I cross my arms and I was waiting - but I was hating The rappers on the microphone was fronting - just faking They wasn't breakin', which means I was achin' To get up on the microphone and then start takin' Control of the mic - uptight when I grabbed it So hug the speaker- your ear's a magnet Attracted to a freestyle put in effect You listen to my man while you're sippin' Moet So Eric, pick up the needle (yeah) put it in the middle (ahhight) Give me a scratch, turn my Mic up a little, I want you to hear this perfectly clear Catch what I'm sayin'? You get the idea? I hope you knowledge the beginning cuz I'm finished this song The rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme flows on... |
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7:10 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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5:58 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin knowledge be born, and my name's the R A-k-i-m, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list That's what I'm sayin, I drop science like a scientist My melody's in a code, the very next episode Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder The listener's system is kickin' like solar As I memorize, advertise, like a poet Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be Nobody beats the R, check out my melody So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it, Let 'My Melody' play, then a record suggest it I'm droppin bombs, but I stay peace and calm Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait I won't push, I won't beat around the bush I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to You might try but you can't get close to Because I'm number one, competition is none I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun 'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall Or just writin my name in graffiti on the wall You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me So now a contest is what you owe me Pull out your money, pull out your cut Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra Switch it around, it still comes out R So easily will I e-m-c-e-e My repetition of words is check out my melody Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak shit Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rockin party to party, backyard to yard I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp I can swing off anything even a string of a harp Just turn it on and start rockin, mine, no introduction 'Til I finish droppin science, no interruption When I approach I exercise like a coach Usin' a melody and add new verse(?) and notes So when the mic and the R-a-k-i-m It's attached, like a match I will strike again Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter, A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor Melody arranger, poet, etcetera Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus I am the man they call the microphonist With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin' I came to express the rap I manifest Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest MC's that wanna be vissed(?), they're gonna Be dissed if they don't get from in fronta All they can go get is me a glass of Moet A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet I take 7 MC's put 'em in a line And add 7 more brothas who think they can rhyme Well, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine Now that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin' No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin' No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why bother This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow My unusual style will confuse you a while And if I was water, I'd flow in the Nile So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours Just because of applause I have to pause Right after tonight is when I prepare To catch another sucka duck MC out there 'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe And after this you'll call me your majesty My melody Yes, my melody Eric B. Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it Eric B. made a cut and advertised it My melody's created for MC's in the place They try to listen cuz I'm dissin them so pick up your face Shook off your neck cuz you try to detect my pace Now you're buggin', almost doggin' off my rhyme-like bass The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin Rough enough to break New York from Long Island My wisdom is swift, no matter if My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff I'm genuine like leather - reclined to be clever MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say "Oh never" So Eric B., cut it easily and check out my melody... |
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4:44 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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4:47 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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4:06 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I came in the door, I said it before
I never let the mic magnetize me no more But it's biting me, fighting me, inviting me to rhyme I can't hold it back, I'm looking for the line, Taking off my coat, clearing my throat The rhyme will be kicking it until I hit my last note My mind remains to find all kinda ideas Self-esteem makes it seem like a thought took years to build But still say a rhyme after the next one Prepared, never scared, I'll just bless one And you know that I'm the soloist So Eric B, make 'em clap to this I don't bug out or chill or be acting ill No tricks in '86, it's time to build Eric B easy on the cut, no mistakes allowed Cuz to me, MC means move the crowd I made it easy to dance to this But can you detect what's coming next from the flex of the wrist Say "Indeed" then I proceed cuz my man made a mix If he bleed he won't need no band-aid to fix his fingertips, so I rhyme until there's no rhymes left I hurry up because the cut will make him bleed to death But he's kicking it cuz it ain't no half steppin' The party is live, the Rak can't be kept inside if he's eruptin' just like a volcano It ain't the everyday style or the same old rhyme Cuz I'm better then the rest of them Eric B is on the cut and my name is Rakim Go get a girl and get soft and warm, Don't get excited, you've been invited to a quiet storm But now it's out of hand cuz you told me you hate me And then you ask what have I done lately First you said all you want is love and affection Let me be your angel and I'll be your protection Take you out, buy you all kinds of things You caught an attitude, you need food to eat up I'm scheming like I'm dreaming on a couch wit my feet up You scream I'm lazy, you must be crazy Thought I was a donut, you tried to glaze me |
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6:32 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin knowledge be born, and my name's the R A-k-i-m, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list That's what I'm sayin, I drop science like a scientist My melody's in a code, the very next episode Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder The listener's system is kickin' like solar As I memorize, advertise, like a poet Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be Nobody beats the R, check out my melody So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it, Let 'My Melody' play, then a record suggest it I'm droppin bombs, but I stay peace and calm Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait I won't push, I won't beat around the bush I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to You might try but you can't get close to Because I'm number one, competition is none I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun 'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall Or just writin my name in graffiti on the wall You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me So now a contest is what you owe me Pull out your money, pull out your cut Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra Switch it around, it still comes out R So easily will I e-m-c-e-e My repetition of words is check out my melody Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak shit Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rockin party to party, backyard to yard I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp I can swing off anything even a string of a harp Just turn it on and start rockin, mine, no introduction 'Til I finish droppin science, no interruption When I approach I exercise like a coach Usin' a melody and add new verse(?) and notes So when the mic and the R-a-k-i-m It's attached, like a match I will strike again Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter, A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor Melody arranger, poet, etcetera Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus I am the man they call the microphonist With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin' I came to express the rap I manifest Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest MC's that wanna be vissed(?), they're gonna Be dissed if they don't get from in fronta All they can go get is me a glass of Moet A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet I take 7 MC's put 'em in a line And add 7 more brothas who think they can rhyme Well, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine Now that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin' No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin' No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why bother This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow My unusual style will confuse you a while And if I was water, I'd flow in the Nile So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours Just because of applause I have to pause Right after tonight is when I prepare To catch another sucka duck MC out there 'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe And after this you'll call me your majesty My melody Yes, my melody Eric B. Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it Eric B. made a cut and advertised it My melody's created for MC's in the place They try to listen cuz I'm dissin them so pick up your face Shook off your neck cuz you try to detect my pace Now you're buggin', almost doggin' off my rhyme-like bass The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin Rough enough to break New York from Long Island My wisdom is swift, no matter if My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff I'm genuine like leather - reclined to be clever MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say "Oh never" So Eric B., cut it easily and check out my melody... |
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3:53 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I ain't no joke, I use to let the mic smoke
Now I slam it when I'm done and make sure it's broke When i'm gone no one gets on cuz I won't let Nobody press up and mess up the seen I set I like to stand in a crowd and watch the people wonder damn But think about it then you'll understand I'm just an addict addicted to music Maybe it's a habit, I gotta use it Even if it's jazz or the quiet storm I hook a beat up convert it into hip-hop form Write a rhyme in graffitti in every show you see me in Deep concentration, cuz I'm no comedian Jokers are wild if you wanna be tamed I treat you like a child then you're gonna be named Another enemy, not even a friend of me Cuz you'll get fried in the end when you pretend to be Competin' cuz I just put your mind on pause and I complete when - you compare my rhyme wit yours I wake you up and as I stare in your face you seem stunned Remember me, the one you got your idea from But soon you start to suffer, the tune'll get rougher When you start to stutter that's when you had enuff of Biting, it'll make you choke, you can't provoke You can't cope, you should've broke because I ain't no joke I got a question, as serious as cancer Who can keep the average dancer Hyper as a heart attack nobody smiling Cuz you're expressing the rhyme that I'm styling This is what we all sit down to write You can't make it so you take it home, break it and bite Use pieces and bits of all the hip-hop hits Get the style down pat then it's time to switch Put my tape on pause and add some more to yours Then you fake it you're ready for the neighborhood chores The E-M-C-E-E don't even try to be When you come up to speak, don't even lie to me You like to exaggerate, dream and imaginate Then change the rhyme around, that can aggravate me So when you see me come up, freeze Or you'll be one of those 7 MC's They think that I'm a new jack but only if they knew that They who think wrong are they who can't do that Style that I'm doing, they might ruin Patterns and paragraphs based on you and Your offbeat DJ, if anything he play Sound familiar, I'll wait til E say Play 'em, so I'ma have to diss and bro You could get a smack for this, I ain't no joke I hold the microphone like a grudge B'll hold the record so the needle don't budge I hold a conversation cuz when I invent I nominated my DJ to president When I'm see I'll, keep a freestyle, going steadily So pucker up and whistle my melody But whatever you do, don't miss one They'll be another rough rhyme after this one Before you know it, you're following and fiending Waiting for the punchline to get the meaning Like before the middle of my story I'm telling Nobody beats the R so stop yelling Save it, put it in your pocket for later Cuz I'm moving the crowd and B'll wreck the fader No interruptions til the mic is broke When I'm gone, then you can joke Cuz everything is real on a serious tip Keep playing and I varies quick And take you for a walk through hell Freeze your dome then watch your eyeballs swell Guide you out of triple stage darkness When it get dark again then I'ma spark this Microphone cuz the heat is on, you see smoke then I finish when the beat is gone, I'm no joke |
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3:50 |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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6:47 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin knowledge be born, and my name's the R A-k-i-m, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list That's what I'm sayin, I drop science like a scientist My melody's in a code, the very next episode Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder The listener's system is kickin' like solar As I memorize, advertise, like a poet Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be Nobody beats the R, check out my melody So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it, Let 'My Melody' play, then a record suggest it I'm droppin bombs, but I stay peace and calm Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait I won't push, I won't beat around the bush I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to You might try but you can't get close to Because I'm number one, competition is none I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun 'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall Or just writin my name in graffiti on the wall You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me So now a contest is what you owe me Pull out your money, pull out your cut Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra Switch it around, it still comes out R So easily will I e-m-c-e-e My repetition of words is check out my melody Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak shit Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rockin party to party, backyard to yard I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp I can swing off anything even a string of a harp Just turn it on and start rockin, mine, no introduction 'Til I finish droppin science, no interruption When I approach I exercise like a coach Usin' a melody and add new verse(?) and notes So when the mic and the R-a-k-i-m It's attached, like a match I will strike again Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter, A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor Melody arranger, poet, etcetera Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus I am the man they call the microphonist With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin' I came to express the rap I manifest Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest MC's that wanna be vissed(?), they're gonna Be dissed if they don't get from in fronta All they can go get is me a glass of Moet A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet I take 7 MC's put 'em in a line And add 7 more brothas who think they can rhyme Well, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine Now that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin' No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin' No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why bother This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow My unusual style will confuse you a while And if I was water, I'd flow in the Nile So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours Just because of applause I have to pause Right after tonight is when I prepare To catch another sucka duck MC out there 'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe And after this you'll call me your majesty My melody Yes, my melody Eric B. Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it Eric B. made a cut and advertised it My melody's created for MC's in the place They try to listen cuz I'm dissin them so pick up your face Shook off your neck cuz you try to detect my pace Now you're buggin', almost doggin' off my rhyme-like bass The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin Rough enough to break New York from Long Island My wisdom is swift, no matter if My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff I'm genuine like leather - reclined to be clever MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say "Oh never" So Eric B., cut it easily and check out my melody... |
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4:45 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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3:47 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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3:49 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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4:01 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Knowledge will begin until I finish this song
'Cuz the rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme goes on You sweat as you step about to get hype Or should you just listen to the man on the mic You're physically in this with me but how could you tell If it's meant to be hip hop if you're not mentally as well Ready to absorb the rhyme that I just poured Into the mic and so unite and this won't be so bored If you just keep kickin' listen - to the mix And think you'll sink into the rhyme like quicksand Holds and controls you 'til I leave You fall deeper in the style - it's hard to breathe The only time I stop is when somebody drop and then Bring 'em to the front 'cuz my rhymes' the oxygen Then wave your hands - when you're ready I'll send you Into your favorite dance so let the rhyme continue And so on and I'ma go on simultaneously And even if I stop - the rhyme remains to be Rising to the top - and I came to drop it Catch it and quiz it - is my topic Universual 'cuz I move everybody to come By exercising your mind you'll coincide as one You look around and see how packed the party starts to get I draw a crowd - like an architect The five borroughs react and all the islands attract And every state can't wait - so they attack off a spot on the floor - squeeze in cuz it's packed It'll be more room if MC's play the back I'm the R the A to the K-I-M If I wasn't, then why would I say I am The microphone fiend if I was a fake Whoever said it's just buggin' off the rhymes I make I had you biting your tongue for what I brung and recite Sung it on stage some said it don't sound like The voice on the record - I see what you mean Because the system was wack, so I had to scream So just - give me a mic if it's loud I'll blow it If not - into the crowd I'll throw it Pull out my cordless mic and entertain you well Before I let go I'ma spark your brain cells I took time to write - tonight I will recite So poetically inclined when the mic is held tight Rhymes start flowin' kisses are blowin MC's are knowin' that's why they're goin Home to tell a friend when the party ends "Yo, man you know Rakim? That brother struck again" Cuz mic by mic and stage by stage, Tape by tape and page by page, When the crowd is moving I compete with the mix The rougher the cuts - the rougher the rhyme gets Deeper and Deeper - I hope you understand it I made it up myself and I planned it For other MC's who waste time Writing jokes, riddles, and maybe a rhyme I cross my arms and I was waiting - but I was hating The rappers on the microphone was fronting - just faking They wasn't breakin', which means I was achin' To get up on the microphone and then start takin' Control of the mic - uptight when I grabbed it So hug the speaker- your ear's a magnet Attracted to a freestyle put in effect You listen to my man while you're sippin' Moet So Eric, pick up the needle (yeah) put it in the middle (ahhight) Give me a scratch, turn my Mic up a little, I want you to hear this perfectly clear Catch what I'm sayin'? You get the idea? I hope you knowledge the beginning cuz I'm finished this song The rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme flows on... |
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4:07 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's not your situation
I just need contemplation over you Over you I'm not so systematic It's just that I'm an addict for your love yeah I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Just think how long I've known ya It's wrong for me to own you lock and key Lock and key It's really not confusin' I'm just a young illusion can't you see, yeah, well I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm Oh, oh, oh It's not your situation I just need contemplation over you Over you I'm not so systematic It's just that I'm an addict for your love, yeah I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm Why ya wanna make them Oh make them cry (No) Oh, whoa whoa (Why) Kiss the girls Why ya wanna Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm |
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6:19 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I came in the door, I said it before
I never let the mic magnetize me no more But it's biting me, fighting me, inviting me to rhyme I can't hold it back, I'm looking for the line, Taking off my coat, clearing my throat The rhyme will be kicking it until I hit my last note My mind remains to find all kinda ideas Self-esteem makes it seem like a thought took years to build But still say a rhyme after the next one Prepared, never scared, I'll just bless one And you know that I'm the soloist So Eric B, make 'em clap to this I don't bug out or chill or be acting ill No tricks in '86, it's time to build Eric B easy on the cut, no mistakes allowed Cuz to me, MC means move the crowd I made it easy to dance to this But can you detect what's coming next from the flex of the wrist Say "Indeed" then I proceed cuz my man made a mix If he bleed he won't need no band-aid to fix his fingertips, so I rhyme until there's no rhymes left I hurry up because the cut will make him bleed to death But he's kicking it cuz it ain't no half steppin' The party is live, the Rak can't be kept inside if he's eruptin' just like a volcano It ain't the everyday style or the same old rhyme Cuz I'm better then the rest of them Eric B is on the cut and my name is Rakim Go get a girl and get soft and warm, Don't get excited, you've been invited to a quiet storm But now it's out of hand cuz you told me you hate me And then you ask what have I done lately First you said all you want is love and affection Let me be your angel and I'll be your protection Take you out, buy you all kinds of things You caught an attitude, you need food to eat up I'm scheming like I'm dreaming on a couch wit my feet up You scream I'm lazy, you must be crazy Thought I was a donut, you tried to glaze me |
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3:49 |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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3:53 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Knowledge will begin until I finish this song
'Cuz the rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme goes on You sweat as you step about to get hype Or should you just listen to the man on the mic You're physically in this with me but how could you tell If it's meant to be hip hop if you're not mentally as well Ready to absorb the rhyme that I just poured Into the mic and so unite and this won't be so bored If you just keep kickin' listen - to the mix And think you'll sink into the rhyme like quicksand Holds and controls you 'til I leave You fall deeper in the style - it's hard to breathe The only time I stop is when somebody drop and then Bring 'em to the front 'cuz my rhymes' the oxygen Then wave your hands - when you're ready I'll send you Into your favorite dance so let the rhyme continue And so on and I'ma go on simultaneously And even if I stop - the rhyme remains to be Rising to the top - and I came to drop it Catch it and quiz it - is my topic Universual 'cuz I move everybody to come By exercising your mind you'll coincide as one You look around and see how packed the party starts to get I draw a crowd - like an architect The five borroughs react and all the islands attract And every state can't wait - so they attack off a spot on the floor - squeeze in cuz it's packed It'll be more room if MC's play the back I'm the R the A to the K-I-M If I wasn't, then why would I say I am The microphone fiend if I was a fake Whoever said it's just buggin' off the rhymes I make I had you biting your tongue for what I brung and recite Sung it on stage some said it don't sound like The voice on the record - I see what you mean Because the system was wack, so I had to scream So just - give me a mic if it's loud I'll blow it If not - into the crowd I'll throw it Pull out my cordless mic and entertain you well Before I let go I'ma spark your brain cells I took time to write - tonight I will recite So poetically inclined when the mic is held tight Rhymes start flowin' kisses are blowin MC's are knowin' that's why they're goin Home to tell a friend when the party ends "Yo, man you know Rakim? That brother struck again" Cuz mic by mic and stage by stage, Tape by tape and page by page, When the crowd is moving I compete with the mix The rougher the cuts - the rougher the rhyme gets Deeper and Deeper - I hope you understand it I made it up myself and I planned it For other MC's who waste time Writing jokes, riddles, and maybe a rhyme I cross my arms and I was waiting - but I was hating The rappers on the microphone was fronting - just faking They wasn't breakin', which means I was achin' To get up on the microphone and then start takin' Control of the mic - uptight when I grabbed it So hug the speaker- your ear's a magnet Attracted to a freestyle put in effect You listen to my man while you're sippin' Moet So Eric, pick up the needle (yeah) put it in the middle (ahhight) Give me a scratch, turn my Mic up a little, I want you to hear this perfectly clear Catch what I'm sayin'? You get the idea? I hope you knowledge the beginning cuz I'm finished this song The rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme flows on... |
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3:38 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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3:55 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I ain't no joke, I use to let the mic smoke
Now I slam it when I'm done and make sure it's broke When i'm gone no one gets on cuz I won't let Nobody press up and mess up the seen I set I like to stand in a crowd and watch the people wonder damn But think about it then you'll understand I'm just an addict addicted to music Maybe it's a habit, I gotta use it Even if it's jazz or the quiet storm I hook a beat up convert it into hip-hop form Write a rhyme in graffitti in every show you see me in Deep concentration, cuz I'm no comedian Jokers are wild if you wanna be tamed I treat you like a child then you're gonna be named Another enemy, not even a friend of me Cuz you'll get fried in the end when you pretend to be Competin' cuz I just put your mind on pause and I complete when - you compare my rhyme wit yours I wake you up and as I stare in your face you seem stunned Remember me, the one you got your idea from But soon you start to suffer, the tune'll get rougher When you start to stutter that's when you had enuff of Biting, it'll make you choke, you can't provoke You can't cope, you should've broke because I ain't no joke I got a question, as serious as cancer Who can keep the average dancer Hyper as a heart attack nobody smiling Cuz you're expressing the rhyme that I'm styling This is what we all sit down to write You can't make it so you take it home, break it and bite Use pieces and bits of all the hip-hop hits Get the style down pat then it's time to switch Put my tape on pause and add some more to yours Then you fake it you're ready for the neighborhood chores The E-M-C-E-E don't even try to be When you come up to speak, don't even lie to me You like to exaggerate, dream and imaginate Then change the rhyme around, that can aggravate me So when you see me come up, freeze Or you'll be one of those 7 MC's They think that I'm a new jack but only if they knew that They who think wrong are they who can't do that Style that I'm doing, they might ruin Patterns and paragraphs based on you and Your offbeat DJ, if anything he play Sound familiar, I'll wait til E say Play 'em, so I'ma have to diss and bro You could get a smack for this, I ain't no joke I hold the microphone like a grudge B'll hold the record so the needle don't budge I hold a conversation cuz when I invent I nominated my DJ to president When I'm see I'll, keep a freestyle, going steadily So pucker up and whistle my melody But whatever you do, don't miss one They'll be another rough rhyme after this one Before you know it, you're following and fiending Waiting for the punchline to get the meaning Like before the middle of my story I'm telling Nobody beats the R so stop yelling Save it, put it in your pocket for later Cuz I'm moving the crowd and B'll wreck the fader No interruptions til the mic is broke When I'm gone, then you can joke Cuz everything is real on a serious tip Keep playing and I varies quick And take you for a walk through hell Freeze your dome then watch your eyeballs swell Guide you out of triple stage darkness When it get dark again then I'ma spark this Microphone cuz the heat is on, you see smoke then I finish when the beat is gone, I'm no joke |
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3:53 |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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6:49 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin knowledge be born, and my name's the R A-k-i-m, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list That's what I'm sayin, I drop science like a scientist My melody's in a code, the very next episode Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder The listener's system is kickin' like solar As I memorize, advertise, like a poet Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be Nobody beats the R, check out my melody So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it, Let 'My Melody' play, then a record suggest it I'm droppin bombs, but I stay peace and calm Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait I won't push, I won't beat around the bush I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to You might try but you can't get close to Because I'm number one, competition is none I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun 'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall Or just writin my name in graffiti on the wall You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me So now a contest is what you owe me Pull out your money, pull out your cut Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra Switch it around, it still comes out R So easily will I e-m-c-e-e My repetition of words is check out my melody Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak shit Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rockin party to party, backyard to yard I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp I can swing off anything even a string of a harp Just turn it on and start rockin, mine, no introduction 'Til I finish droppin science, no interruption When I approach I exercise like a coach Usin' a melody and add new verse(?) and notes So when the mic and the R-a-k-i-m It's attached, like a match I will strike again Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter, A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor Melody arranger, poet, etcetera Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus I am the man they call the microphonist With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin' I came to express the rap I manifest Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest MC's that wanna be vissed(?), they're gonna Be dissed if they don't get from in fronta All they can go get is me a glass of Moet A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet I take 7 MC's put 'em in a line And add 7 more brothas who think they can rhyme Well, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine Now that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin' No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin' No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why bother This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow My unusual style will confuse you a while And if I was water, I'd flow in the Nile So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours Just because of applause I have to pause Right after tonight is when I prepare To catch another sucka duck MC out there 'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe And after this you'll call me your majesty My melody Yes, my melody Eric B. Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it Eric B. made a cut and advertised it My melody's created for MC's in the place They try to listen cuz I'm dissin them so pick up your face Shook off your neck cuz you try to detect my pace Now you're buggin', almost doggin' off my rhyme-like bass The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin Rough enough to break New York from Long Island My wisdom is swift, no matter if My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff I'm genuine like leather - reclined to be clever MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say "Oh never" So Eric B., cut it easily and check out my melody... |
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4:50 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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3:50 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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3:54 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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4:04 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Knowledge will begin until I finish this song
'Cuz the rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme goes on You sweat as you step about to get hype Or should you just listen to the man on the mic You're physically in this with me but how could you tell If it's meant to be hip hop if you're not mentally as well Ready to absorb the rhyme that I just poured Into the mic and so unite and this won't be so bored If you just keep kickin' listen - to the mix And think you'll sink into the rhyme like quicksand Holds and controls you 'til I leave You fall deeper in the style - it's hard to breathe The only time I stop is when somebody drop and then Bring 'em to the front 'cuz my rhymes' the oxygen Then wave your hands - when you're ready I'll send you Into your favorite dance so let the rhyme continue And so on and I'ma go on simultaneously And even if I stop - the rhyme remains to be Rising to the top - and I came to drop it Catch it and quiz it - is my topic Universual 'cuz I move everybody to come By exercising your mind you'll coincide as one You look around and see how packed the party starts to get I draw a crowd - like an architect The five borroughs react and all the islands attract And every state can't wait - so they attack off a spot on the floor - squeeze in cuz it's packed It'll be more room if MC's play the back I'm the R the A to the K-I-M If I wasn't, then why would I say I am The microphone fiend if I was a fake Whoever said it's just buggin' off the rhymes I make I had you biting your tongue for what I brung and recite Sung it on stage some said it don't sound like The voice on the record - I see what you mean Because the system was wack, so I had to scream So just - give me a mic if it's loud I'll blow it If not - into the crowd I'll throw it Pull out my cordless mic and entertain you well Before I let go I'ma spark your brain cells I took time to write - tonight I will recite So poetically inclined when the mic is held tight Rhymes start flowin' kisses are blowin MC's are knowin' that's why they're goin Home to tell a friend when the party ends "Yo, man you know Rakim? That brother struck again" Cuz mic by mic and stage by stage, Tape by tape and page by page, When the crowd is moving I compete with the mix The rougher the cuts - the rougher the rhyme gets Deeper and Deeper - I hope you understand it I made it up myself and I planned it For other MC's who waste time Writing jokes, riddles, and maybe a rhyme I cross my arms and I was waiting - but I was hating The rappers on the microphone was fronting - just faking They wasn't breakin', which means I was achin' To get up on the microphone and then start takin' Control of the mic - uptight when I grabbed it So hug the speaker- your ear's a magnet Attracted to a freestyle put in effect You listen to my man while you're sippin' Moet So Eric, pick up the needle (yeah) put it in the middle (ahhight) Give me a scratch, turn my Mic up a little, I want you to hear this perfectly clear Catch what I'm sayin'? You get the idea? I hope you knowledge the beginning cuz I'm finished this song The rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme flows on... |
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4:11 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's not your situation
I just need contemplation over you Over you I'm not so systematic It's just that I'm an addict for your love yeah I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Just think how long I've known ya It's wrong for me to own you lock and key Lock and key It's really not confusin' I'm just a young illusion can't you see, yeah, well I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm Oh, oh, oh It's not your situation I just need contemplation over you Over you I'm not so systematic It's just that I'm an addict for your love, yeah I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only girl (Never should have told you/me) I'm not the only one that holds ya I never ever should have told ya You're my only world Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm Why ya wanna make them Oh make them cry (No) Oh, whoa whoa (Why) Kiss the girls Why ya wanna Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls and made them cry Georgy Porgy puddin' pie Kissed the girls, yeah Oh, oh, kissed the girls, um hmm |
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6:20 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I came in the door, I said it before
I never let the mic magnetize me no more But it's biting me, fighting me, inviting me to rhyme I can't hold it back, I'm looking for the line, Taking off my coat, clearing my throat The rhyme will be kicking it until I hit my last note My mind remains to find all kinda ideas Self-esteem makes it seem like a thought took years to build But still say a rhyme after the next one Prepared, never scared, I'll just bless one And you know that I'm the soloist So Eric B, make 'em clap to this I don't bug out or chill or be acting ill No tricks in '86, it's time to build Eric B easy on the cut, no mistakes allowed Cuz to me, MC means move the crowd I made it easy to dance to this But can you detect what's coming next from the flex of the wrist Say "Indeed" then I proceed cuz my man made a mix If he bleed he won't need no band-aid to fix his fingertips, so I rhyme until there's no rhymes left I hurry up because the cut will make him bleed to death But he's kicking it cuz it ain't no half steppin' The party is live, the Rak can't be kept inside if he's eruptin' just like a volcano It ain't the everyday style or the same old rhyme Cuz I'm better then the rest of them Eric B is on the cut and my name is Rakim Go get a girl and get soft and warm, Don't get excited, you've been invited to a quiet storm But now it's out of hand cuz you told me you hate me And then you ask what have I done lately First you said all you want is love and affection Let me be your angel and I'll be your protection Take you out, buy you all kinds of things You caught an attitude, you need food to eat up I'm scheming like I'm dreaming on a couch wit my feet up You scream I'm lazy, you must be crazy Thought I was a donut, you tried to glaze me |
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3:50 |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987) | |||||
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7:13 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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4:57 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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4:27 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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5:15 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Yo Rakim what's up?
Yo I'm doing the knowledge E. I'm trying to get paid in full Well check this out since Nobry Walters is our agency right? True Kara Lewis is our agent Word up Zakia/4th & Broadway is our record company Indeed Okay so who we rollin with? We rollin with Rush Of Rushtown Management. Check this out since we talking over this def beat that I put together, I wanna hear some of them def rhymes, know what I'm sayin? And together, we can get paid in full... Thinkin of a master plan Cuz ain't nuthin but sweat inside my hand So I dig into my pocket, all my money is spent So I dig deeper but still comin up with lint So I start my mission- leave my residence Thinkin how could I get some dead presidents I need money, I used to be a stick-up kid So I think of all the devious things I did I used to roll up, this is a hold up, ain't nuthin funny Stop smiling, be still, don't nuthin move but the money But now I learned to earn cos I'm righteous I feel great! so maybe I might just Search for a 9 to 5, if I strive Then maybe I'll stay alive So I walk up the street whistlin this Feelin out of place cos, man, do I miss A pen and a paper, a stereo, a tape of Me and Eric B, and a nice big plate of Fish, which is my favorite dish But without no money it's still a wish Cos I don't like to dream about gettin paid So I dig into the books of the rhymes that I made To now test to see if I got pull Hit the studio, cos I'm paid in full |
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6:10 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Knowledge will begin until I finish this song
'Cuz the rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme goes on You sweat as you step about to get hype Or should you just listen to the man on the mic You're physically in this with me but how could you tell If it's meant to be hip hop if you're not mentally as well Ready to absorb the rhyme that I just poured Into the mic and so unite and this won't be so bored If you just keep kickin' listen - to the mix And think you'll sink into the rhyme like quicksand Holds and controls you 'til I leave You fall deeper in the style - it's hard to breathe The only time I stop is when somebody drop and then Bring 'em to the front 'cuz my rhymes' the oxygen Then wave your hands - when you're ready I'll send you Into your favorite dance so let the rhyme continue And so on and I'ma go on simultaneously And even if I stop - the rhyme remains to be Rising to the top - and I came to drop it Catch it and quiz it - is my topic Universual 'cuz I move everybody to come By exercising your mind you'll coincide as one You look around and see how packed the party starts to get I draw a crowd - like an architect The five borroughs react and all the islands attract And every state can't wait - so they attack off a spot on the floor - squeeze in cuz it's packed It'll be more room if MC's play the back I'm the R the A to the K-I-M If I wasn't, then why would I say I am The microphone fiend if I was a fake Whoever said it's just buggin' off the rhymes I make I had you biting your tongue for what I brung and recite Sung it on stage some said it don't sound like The voice on the record - I see what you mean Because the system was wack, so I had to scream So just - give me a mic if it's loud I'll blow it If not - into the crowd I'll throw it Pull out my cordless mic and entertain you well Before I let go I'ma spark your brain cells I took time to write - tonight I will recite So poetically inclined when the mic is held tight Rhymes start flowin' kisses are blowin MC's are knowin' that's why they're goin Home to tell a friend when the party ends "Yo, man you know Rakim? That brother struck again" Cuz mic by mic and stage by stage, Tape by tape and page by page, When the crowd is moving I compete with the mix The rougher the cuts - the rougher the rhyme gets Deeper and Deeper - I hope you understand it I made it up myself and I planned it For other MC's who waste time Writing jokes, riddles, and maybe a rhyme I cross my arms and I was waiting - but I was hating The rappers on the microphone was fronting - just faking They wasn't breakin', which means I was achin' To get up on the microphone and then start takin' Control of the mic - uptight when I grabbed it So hug the speaker- your ear's a magnet Attracted to a freestyle put in effect You listen to my man while you're sippin' Moet So Eric, pick up the needle (yeah) put it in the middle (ahhight) Give me a scratch, turn my Mic up a little, I want you to hear this perfectly clear Catch what I'm sayin'? You get the idea? I hope you knowledge the beginning cuz I'm finished this song The rhyme gets rougher as the rhyme flows on... |
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7:12 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Verse one:
Standing by the speaker suddenly I had this Fever was it me or either summer madness 'cause I just can't stand around So I get closer and the closer I get the better it sound My mind starts to activate rhymes collaborate 'cause When i heard the beat I just had to make Something from the top of my head So I fell into the groove of the wax and I said How could I move the crowd First of all, ain't no mistakes allowed Here's the instruction, put it together It simple ain't it but quite clever Some of you been trying to write rhymes for years But weak ideas irritate my ears Is this the best that you can make? 'cause if not and you got more, I'll wait But don't make me wait too long coz I'm a move on The dancefloor when they put something smooth on So turn up the bass, it's better when it's loud 'cause I like to move the crowd Move the crowd... Verse two: Imagine me wit the heat that's made by solar, It gets stronger everytime I hold a Microphone, check the tone to get started The line for the microphone is departed So leave it up to me, my DJ is mixing Everyone is moving or eager to listen Your hands in the air, your mouth, shut! 'cause I'm on the mic and Eric be |
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4:46 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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4:49 |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to Think of how many weak shows you slept through Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you Thinking of this, you keep repeating you miss The rhymes from the microphone soloist And you sit by the radio, hand on the dial, soon As you hear it, pump up the volume Dance wit the speaker 'till you hear it blow, Then plug in the headphone 'cause here it go It's a 4 letter word when it's heard, it control your body to dance (You got it) soul, Ditects the tempo like a red alert Reaches your reflex, so let it work When this is playing, you can't get stuck wit The steps, so get set and I'm a still come up wit A gift to be swift, follow the leader, the rhyme will go Def wit the record that was mixed a long time ago It can be done but only I can do it For those that can dance and clap your hands to it I start to think and then I sink Into the paper like I was ink When I'm writing, I'm trapped in between the lines, I escape when I finish the rhyme... I got soul You got it (4x) I know you got soul Picture a mic, the stage is empty A beat like this might tempt me To pose, show my rings and my fat gold chain Grab the mic like I'm on Soul Train But I'll wait 'cause I mastered this Let the others go first so the brothers don't miss Eric B. break the sticks (you got it) Rakim will begin when you make the mix I'll experiment like a scientist You wanna rhyme, you gotta sign my list 'Cause I'm a manifest and bless the mic I hold You want it next? then you gotta have soul 'Cause if you ain't got it, I'm a make an encore Take the mic, make the people respond for The R, 'cause that's the way it'll have to be If you wanna get on after me Think about it, wait, erase your rhyme Forget it and don't waste your time 'Cause I'll be in the crowd if you ain't controlling it Drop the mic, you shouldn't be holding it This is how it should be done This style is identical to none Some try to make it sound like this but you're getting me So upset that I'm wet 'cause you're sweating me I drip steam like a microphone fiend Eager to MC is my theme I get hype when I hear a drum roll Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (5x) I got soul (you got it) that's why I came To teach those who can't say my name First of all, I'm the soloist, the soul controller Rakim gets stronger as I get older Constant elevation causes expansion I write my rhyme while I cool in my mansion Then put it on tape and in the city I test it Then on the radio the R's requested You listen to it, the concept might break you 'Cause almost anyone can relate to... Whoever's out of hand, I'm give him handles Light 'em up, blow 'em out like candles Or should I just let him melt? Then give him a hand so they can see how it felt I'm not bold just cuz I rock gold Rakim is on the mic and you know I got soul You got it (4x) Now I'm a stop to see what you got Get off the mic before I get too hot I want to see which posse can dance the best It should be easy 'cause the beat is fresh Now if your from Uptown, Brooklyn- bound, The Bronx, Queens, or Long Island Sound, Even other states come right and exact, It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Since you came here, you have to show and prove And do that dance until it don't move 'Cause all you need is soul self-esteem will release, The rest is up to you, Rakim 'll say peace You got it (10x) |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
I came in the door, I said it before
I never let the mic magnetize me no more But it's biting me, fighting me, inviting me to rhyme I can't hold it back, I'm looking for the line, Taking off my coat, clearing my throat The rhyme will be kicking it until I hit my last note My mind remains to find all kinda ideas Self-esteem makes it seem like a thought took years to build But still say a rhyme after the next one Prepared, never scared, I'll just bless one And you know that I'm the soloist So Eric B, make 'em clap to this I don't bug out or chill or be acting ill No tricks in '86, it's time to build Eric B easy on the cut, no mistakes allowed Cuz to me, MC means move the crowd I made it easy to dance to this But can you detect what's coming next from the flex of the wrist Say "Indeed" then I proceed cuz my man made a mix If he bleed he won't need no band-aid to fix his fingertips, so I rhyme until there's no rhymes left I hurry up because the cut will make him bleed to death But he's kicking it cuz it ain't no half steppin' The party is live, the Rak can't be kept inside if he's eruptin' just like a volcano It ain't the everyday style or the same old rhyme Cuz I'm better then the rest of them Eric B is on the cut and my name is Rakim Go get a girl and get soft and warm, Don't get excited, you've been invited to a quiet storm But now it's out of hand cuz you told me you hate me And then you ask what have I done lately First you said all you want is love and affection Let me be your angel and I'll be your protection Take you out, buy you all kinds of things You caught an attitude, you need food to eat up I'm scheming like I'm dreaming on a couch wit my feet up You scream I'm lazy, you must be crazy Thought I was a donut, you tried to glaze me |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Paid In Full (1987)
Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin knowledge be born, and my name's the R A-k-i-m, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list That's what I'm sayin, I drop science like a scientist My melody's in a code, the very next episode Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder The listener's system is kickin' like solar As I memorize, advertise, like a poet Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be Nobody beats the R, check out my melody So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it, Let 'My Melody' play, then a record suggest it I'm droppin bombs, but I stay peace and calm Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait I won't push, I won't beat around the bush I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to You might try but you can't get close to Because I'm number one, competition is none I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun 'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall Or just writin my name in graffiti on the wall You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me So now a contest is what you owe me Pull out your money, pull out your cut Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra Switch it around, it still comes out R So easily will I e-m-c-e-e My repetition of words is check out my melody Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak shit Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone I take this more serious than just a poem Rockin party to party, backyard to yard I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the gods The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp I can swing off anything even a string of a harp Just turn it on and start rockin, mine, no introduction 'Til I finish droppin science, no interruption When I approach I exercise like a coach Usin' a melody and add new verse(?) and notes So when the mic and the R-a-k-i-m It's attached, like a match I will strike again Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter, A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor Melody arranger, poet, etcetera Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus I am the man they call the microphonist With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin' I came to express the rap I manifest Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest MC's that wanna be vissed(?), they're gonna Be dissed if they don't get from in fronta All they can go get is me a glass of Moet A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet I take 7 MC's put 'em in a line And add 7 more brothas who think they can rhyme Well, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine Now that's 21 MC's ate up at the same time Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin' No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin' No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why bother This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow My unusual style will confuse you a while And if I was water, I'd flow in the Nile So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours Just because of applause I have to pause Right after tonight is when I prepare To catch another sucka duck MC out there 'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe And after this you'll call me your majesty My melody Yes, my melody Eric B. Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it Eric B. made a cut and advertised it My melody's created for MC's in the place They try to listen cuz I'm dissin them so pick up your face Shook off your neck cuz you try to detect my pace Now you're buggin', almost doggin' off my rhyme-like bass The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin Rough enough to break New York from Long Island My wisdom is swift, no matter if My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff I'm genuine like leather - reclined to be clever MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say "Oh never" So Eric B., cut it easily and check out my melody... |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998)
Double oh seven is back.. Double oh seven is back.. Double oh seven is back.. [Rakim] I don't stress my day cause it's best to parlay I guess you could say I've been away I wake up slow when I'm hot but I destruct the plant and fourteen hands comb New York for fans They make waves as they wiggle in my waterbed Pull back the leather covers and silk bedspread A mornin massage turnin into a real rough rubdown so I figured I'll lay around They keep me wet with a juice called Tahiti It make the room steamy, so soon they couldn't see me They know more than calisthetics as they worked up a sweat It wasn't even ten o'clock yet Scrub down, then I get moist, they never treat me mean They sweetly keep me squeaky clean I chill as they filled the jacuzzi I said, "I'm tight from a real long flight, could you soothe me Support my thoughts, cause I got a lot of writing to do" They said, "Cool," and just enjoyed the view It ain't hard cause it's miles from the sidewalk I'm overlookin every borough in New York The entire, Empire, State to concentrate for every rhyme I make So at exactly noon they played my favorite tune And just before they all cleared the room they said, "We're glad you're home from tour, now we feel secure We wish you didn't have to leave no more" But they wanna go to war, they even tried to shoot up the door Double oh seven is back.. Rest assured Double oh seven is back.. Feel secure Double oh seven is back.. I'm fillin up the page when I'm steppin on stage Got the people in a rage with they hands in the air Fellas sayin HOE, everybody yellin GO Fly ladies in the house all screamin "awww yeah" That's how they react when I attack the mic In fact it's like a stack of dynamite, powerful and bright Girls love to squeeze me real tight Double oh seven is back.. Ra has returned, to romance em, better than Johnny Handsome When I was young, women said, "Damn son" Ain't nuthin change but the year and I'm still here C'mere dear and let me whisper in your ear Hug my words so I can taste your lips I set up hips like domino chips but I don't let em hit the floor And if you got sore, then feel secure Where's the pain, is it the spot you set us in Almost magic, better than medicine Take one of these and put your mind at ease I get more work than a lot of M.D.'s If I'm hawkin New York, or out on tour I express the raw dialect and explore But don't get fooled by metaphor Double oh seven is back Rest assured Feel secure Rest assured Rest assured Yo, feel secure |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998)
What's going on?
What's happening it's been so long what's going on And what's going wrong? The good old days are gone You forgot your plot and your plans as a young man You invented a scam even you don't understand You rig the enigma can't figure it out You change the route now you're in doubt You use to cut class smoked grass still passed Figured you was all that but that ain't last; The times is harder, the drugs is heavier You say whatever, the more, the merrier; Smoke chokes your dreams and blurs your scenes, Now a young man fiend change his plan to schemes; No more good times, no more time, Too far to find, you're almost blind, You can't see what spot that the trap is in (Hey bra!)What's happening! You had it mapped out, your plans get torn, You stayed up for days and now your dreams are gone You said you quit, stated your word is bond (Hey bro) what's going on? What's going on? My neighborhood don't look so good I'll find a way out.. yeah, I would if I could, But the government is doing a project so I live in the projects; Where we fight for elbow room to the doom, Try to live long but you die too soon, I might not be alive to see 25, Taught at ten to make money and strive; I sold tapes at school and made some ends Met a lot of skins and even made some friends, Cool, 'cause now I got a crew to run wit, Break a couple of rules, have crazy fun wit; But every now and then, they give my knuckle game a test, But I won't fess, I just get rid of the stress! And then shake hands like a man, 'Cause it's a family thing, only the crew would understand! But you had a one on one fight wit drugs, When we ain't cool no more, we buss slugs, Clip after clip, until one of us is gone (Hey bra!) what's going on? Yo, what's going on? The crime rate in New York State elevate, A city filled wit hate, more deaths accumulate, Drug wars daily, a lot of blood spilt, Kids on the playground shot down and kilt! Nobody wants to live on the 1st floor no more 'Cause stray bullets explore! We're killing ourselves off slowly but surely, And at the end of the year, I'm sure many more'll be Rubbed out in a quest for clout The rest'll be drugged out, this is bugged out! Half of the projects is dead or locked up, Kids getting kidnapped and then found chopped up. Human abortion create distortions And that's just a portion, you know that we're lost when Babies are addicted to drugs when they are born! (Hey bra!) what's going on? (Hey bra!) what's going on? (Hey bra!) what's going on? |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998)
Don't sweat the Technique(2x) Let's trace the hints and check the file Let see who bit to detect the style I flip the script so they can't get foul. At least not now, it'll take a while I change the pace to complete the beat I drop the bass,'till mc's get weak. For every word they trace, it's a scar they keep... 'Cause when I speak, they freak To sweat the technique I made my debut in '86 Wit a melody and a president's mix And now I stay on target and refuse to miss And I still make hits wit' beats, parties, clubs, in the cars and jeeps My underground sound vibrates the streets MC's wanna beef then I play for keeps When they sweat the technique Don't Sweat the Technique They wanna know how many rhymes have I ripped in rep., but Researchers never found all the pieces yet Scientists try to solve the context Philosophers are wondering what's next Pieces are took to last who observe them They couldn't absorb them, they didn't deserve them My ideas are only for the audience's ears For my opponents, it might take years Pencils and pens, are swords Letters put together form a key to chords I'm also a sculpture, born with structure Because of my culture, I'm a rip and destruct the Difficult styles that'll be for the technology Complete sights and new heights after I get deep You don't have to speak just seek And peep the technique But don't sweat the technique I speak indiscreet cause talk is cheap Then I get deep and the weak then complete their Pull with a seat, never weak or obsolete They never grow old techniques become antiques Better then something brand new 'cause it's radiant And the wild style'll have much more volume Classical too intelligent to be radical Masterful, never irrelevant: mathematical Here's some soothing souvenirs for all the years They fought, and sought, the thoughts and ideas It's cool when you freak to the beat But don't sweat the technique Don't sweat the technique (2x) |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Don`T Sweat The Technique (1998) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001)
I'm the arsenal I got artillery, lyrics of ammo Rounds of rhythm Then I'm 'a give 'em piano Bring a bullet-proof vest Nothin' to ricochet ready to aim at the brain ~Now what the trigger say Tempos triflin' Felt like a rifle Massage 'n' melodies Might go right through Simultaneously like an Uzi Nothin' can bruise me Lyrics let up when lady say don't lose me So re-load quickly And you better hit me While I'm lettin' this fifi get wit me You steppin' with .007 Better make it snappy No time to do your hair, baby Brothers are bustin' at me Beats and bullets pass me None on target They want the R hit But wtch the god get Quicker, the tongue is the trigger 'Cause I'm real fast Let off some rhythm at 'em Let 'em feel the blast Penetrate at a crazy rate This ain't no .38 Hit 'em at point blank range And watch 'em radiate Runnin' out of ammunition I'm done wit' em You ask me how I did 'em I let the rhythm hit 'em I push a power that's punishable Better be a prisoner The hit man is the Brother wit' charisma Showing you that I have Powerful paragraphs Followers will become leaders But without a path Ya mentally paralyzed Crippled ya third eye Rhymes are blurred Then it occurred that you heard I Reduced the friction with crucifixion Let loose the mix then Boost the piston Eric hit 'em with' some of that Cut like a lumberjack And me gettin' hit back It won't be none of that I'm untouchable You see me in 3-D When I let the rhythm hit another M.C. Lyrics made of lead Enters your head Then eruptions of a mass production Will spread when Music is louder Full of gunpower Microphone machinery When I see a crowd of Party people pumpin' Their fist like this Ya hide in the back Thinkin' that I might miss But the R is accurate Plus I'm packed up with Educated punch lines that I have to hit Whatever I aim at I line 'em up Ya body is weak, feel with pain That time is up You been hit with somethin' Different, isn't it? Rakim is gonna radiate and nothing's equivalent Nothin' can harm me Why try to bar me You couldn't come around THE RA with aN army You'll get wrecked by the architect So respect 'em I disconnect 'em, soon as I inject 'em With radiation Put 'em by the basement Bust his chest open Bash his face in Let it split 'im Since he brought his main man wit' 'im He ask me how I did 'im I let the rhythm hit 'im Let it hit 'im Dance floor's dangerous Packed in like a briefcase Rhyth with ral rough rhyme Beats with deep bass Girls with tight pants Maybe they might dance Tonight if the Rs on the mike There's a slight chance The crowd is crucial M.C.'s grounds are neutral Now that you're here let me introduce you Get ready I'm hard read like graffiti but steady Science I drop is real heavy Radiant energy, that'll be the penalty Touch the third rail on the pain of remedy The prescription's one every hour Now it's a HABIT Ya need another hit from the freestyle fanatic Attention: follow directions real close Keep out of reach of children Beware of overdose Too many milligram NO ONE made a iller jam My rhyme is the rhythm of thoughts That kill a man Ideas for the ear to fear Might split 'im He'll never forget 'im He'll rest in peace wit' 'em At least when he left he'll know what hit 'im The last breath of the words of death Was the rhythm Now throw you hands in the air and yo, go Rakim will do the rest of this slow If I speed they know you'll blow the hell up If I slow up, THEY'LL catch up, hell no Wicked as I kicked it Don't need to remix it 'Cause I prefixed it Reversed and switched it To perform to perfection Section for section Rhymes keep connectin' Ya guessin' what's next an' Blood pressure rises, ya damn near lost it Ya hit the ground burnin' and woke up frostbit' 'Cause when I explained ya can't complain for pain Travel through the brain hit a vein Then remain, let it radiate Vibes will vibrate Why did you violate Now I'm 'a have to let the style brak Moans now the tone is ingrown After this here's thrown, gimme another microphone Before I get that fifi I met Whisper I wanna reach HER intellect Kiss her 'cause I wanna give her the most respect So I shine and let the write reflect Hold 'er, mold 'er, make 'er feel older Lay her on my shoulder EEverything I told her Makes her feel secure whenever I'm wit' 'er And you know how I did 'er Me and the rhythm hit 'er |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001)
I'm the Alpha, with no Omega
Beginning without the, end so play the eye inside, no extended version Next episode be smooth as a Persian Rhyme everlastin, there'll be no part two Knowledge is infinite, once I start to draw a better picture for your third eye, if you're blind You know with a mic, I'm a black Michaelangelo I'm the brother who ID ideas are colorful Givin em insight, but givin em trouble to comprehend cause they thoughts won't blend in They're pretendin, while I'm extendin You bite like a parasite, said that it you attacks But you won't strike, cause you ain't no match You need more light cause yours got dim Then you get sparked by the Lord Rakim What's the matter G, check your battery Go get charged up, then come battle me You try hard and Die Hard, you ain't Eveready When they check the pulse, you'll be Dead as Freddie SHOP AT SEARS for new ideas Check your engine and ask your engineers to equalize, try to disguise it If that don't work yo, then MIDASIZE it You need more power, better bring Battlecat But this ain't Grayskull, and you ain't rippin jack Don't drop the mic and jet for your tooley ("Bring it to me!") We can go rhyme for rhyme til the mic stop the workin Then I'ma leave you behind the Iron Curtain and you'll remain backstage Your book is over, I ripped your last page Changed the endin, at least you went out rappin Now I'ma tell em what happened I filled the mic with explosives, and lit it up It was too heavy to hold, he couldn't pick it up Pass the mic, let him try to get paid He hit the stage, it went off like a hand grenade Now scrape him off the floor and off my list I ain't a soloist, I'm an arsonist Sprayed up, he said he was gonna do what? Played up, MC Grand but Pooh-Butt Stole his lady, and drove her crazy You asked me why - cause her man tried to play me I sent her back a nervous wreck and tried to put her back in check My speciality is masterin the female species I specialize in her, until she sees where I come from, and why I came I tame the train til she manifest my name Fill her with life until she burst with energy Then leave her restless, cause a lot of women be tryin to drain us, and leave us stripped dry Put holes in our pocket, but you ain't that fly I clipped your wings and bring you down to Earth and tell you what life is worth It ain't rings and things that's materialistic You wanna pip on, imperialist with food for thought, cause I'm the shelter I'll be your clothes, keep you warm and help ya not to be hot to trot by a haunt And why do y'all got to flaunt? ("You gotta use what you got to get what you want") Cool, I heat you up like a black mink coat Hug your neck like a fat gold rope Words I speak and my DJ's cuts will warm ya ears like mink earmuffs So Eric show em how fast your hand'sll go so the people in the stands'll know that you don't scratch your cuts in the grave Moves in waves to my rhyme displays Float, evoke, my tempo jets Expressions express when you kick steps Keep em, energetic, so let it pound in your head til what I said is embedded Don't forget it's copastetic, set it Anywhere you want your poetry's pathetic You gets.. no.. credit.. til you get it straight Let's motivate No intermissions cause it ain't commercial If you wanna break then I'll reimburse you I won't let go so my mic won't drop, cause ("I can't.. stop!") Vocabs is endless, vocals exist Rhyme goes on, so no one can stop this Especially when I start to say the rhymes with no omega No omega No omega ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") *scratched* ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") *scratched* ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") ("I can't.. stop!") *fades* |
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001)
Planet Earth was my place of birth
Born to be the SOLE controller of the universe Besides the part of the map I hit first Any a rhyme that I can adapt when it gets worst The rough gets going, the going gets rough When I start flowing, the mic might bust The next state, I shake from the power I generate People in Cali used to think it was earthquakes 'Cause times was hard on the Boulevard So I vote God and never get scarred and gauled But it seems like I'm locked in hell Looking over the edge but the R never fell A trip to slip 'cause my Nikes got grip Stand on my own two feet and come equip Any stage I'm seen on, I'M LIKE A PHENOM I stand alone and need nothing to lean on Going for self wit a long way to go So much to say but I still flow slow I come correct and I won't look back 'Cause it ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Even the (ghetto) I learn to relax in my room and escape from New York And return through the womb of the world as a thought Thinking how hard it was to be born BEING EQUIPPED wit no physical form Millions OF CELLS wit one destination To reach the best part, it's life creation 9 months later, a job well done Make way, 'cause here I come Since I made it this far, I can't stop now There's a will and a way and I got THE know-how To be all I can be and more And see all there is to see before I'M Called and go back to the essence It's alot to learn so I study my lessons I thought the ghetto was the worst that could happen to me I'm glad I listen when my father was rapping to me 'Cause back in the days, they lived in caves ExileD from the original man, a straight way Now that's what I call hard times I rather be here to exercise the mind Then I take a thought around the world twice From knowledge NEWBORN back to knowledge precise Across the desert, that's HOT AS THE ARABIAN But they couldn't cave me in 'cause I'm the Asian REaching for the city OF Mecca, visit Medina Visions of Neffertiti then I seen a Mind keeps traveling, I'll be back after I Stop and think about the brothers and sisters in Africa Return the thought through the eye of a needle For miles I thought and I just fought the people Under the dark skies on a dark side Not only there but right here's an apartheid So now is the time for us to react Take a trip through the mind and when you get back Understand you're third eye seen all of that It ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Even the (ghetto) Even the (ghetto) No more props, I want property In every borough, nobody's stopping me Because I'm thorough, rhymes are making real estate for me to own Wherever I bless a microphone 007 is back and relaxing On POINT N' reactin' and ready for action I'm so low key that you might not see me Incognito and taking it easy Quiet, it's kept on a hush hush In front of a crowd, I get loud, there's a bumrush Be calm, keep a low pro, and play the background HOPIN' the wack rapper'LL put the mic back down So rip it, break it in half, go head and slam it 'Cause when it's time to build, I'm a mechanic I'm bonding and mending, attaching and blending So many solos, there is no ending People in my neighborhood, they know I'm good From London to Hollywood, wherever I stood Footprints remain on stage ever since As I walk the street, I leave fossils and dents When I had sex, I left my name on necks My trademark was left throughout the projects I used to get rich when I played celo When I rolled 4, 5, 6, they go we know So I collect my cash then slide I got my back, my gun's on my side It shouldn't have to be like that I guess it ain't where you're from, it's where you're at Even the (ghetto) I'm from the (ghetto) Word up, peace |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001)
Here I go again, ready to flow again. Better HOPE my mic don't blow again. Warned by alarms when the mic gets warm. Crowd'll get critical, can't keep calm. Jet for the exit, why hang around? Words that I found make the mic melt down. If you stay, better cooperate, cuz I amputate, and whoever don't break, I'm-a suffocate. Leave 'em with asthma, you better pass the mic to the massacre master who has the power to build and destoy at the same time, so track the wack at the right, and exact could shine. (?) Meant to beat overheat, but I won't stop, so evacuate the spot when the mic's hot. Switch it from one hand to another, and that's a hint, my brother, run for cover. Cuz I'm armed, my brain contains a bomb, as if I escaped from Vietnam. Some people label me lethal, lyrics I made then put beats to. Format, collapse your lungs twist your tongues, you can't bump your gums off of none of the drums. Words that I made'll create an iller scene, Eric B. is the fly human being on the guillotine. Hook 'em up to a respirator, cuz it's the Mista Suffocator. What I write is like shovin' a mic down your windpipe. Don't let him bitE rhymes Rakim write. No mic-to-mouth resuscitation is neccessary; no obituary, and NOTHING LEFT TO BURY. As it strikes on the same mic twice and then, cut it on, and I'm-a strike again. I meditate off the breaks, till the place shakes, then I make rain, hail, snow and earthquakes. Speak the truth, tear the roof off the mother. The stage is stompin' grounds -- run for cover. (scratching) Evacuate the building, danger, cuz I came to explain the strategy that'll be tragic automatically, havin' me to cause another catastrophe. All you gotta do is give Rakim the microphone and the crowd'll yell "Timber." Buildings collapsin', rappers gettin' trapped in, areas closed off, no one gets back in. So set up roadblocks, barrIcade the doors, fade, put a detour sign on the stage. Hold my microphone as evidence, the weapon I use and been usin' ever since the days in the park when, rap was an art then. Plus I was dominant, determined and dark-skinned. Makin' it hard to walk the streets at night for those who talk the weak beats on the mic. Whoever's livin' large better wear camouflage. Prepare to be bumrushed when I yell charge. Surround by sound of the beat-down another brother, this is stompin' grounds, run for cover. Wheels or foot, better not stay put. Whole place shook till the mic's unhooked. Then you've got seven minutes to vacate the premises. Lyrics'll echo soon as the break finishes. Don't act wild, single file to the door. No need for an encore, just clear the floor. Cuz my mic's about to self destruct, the stage'll blow up when my rhymes erupt. So make sure the place is cleared out and abandoned, cuz minutes from now it won't be standin'. Then send out and A.P.B.: All Poets Beware of a brother like me. Now how many rhymes could your man manufacture? How many bitin' MCs can I capture? Trap rappers who try to run off at the mouth; take over their route, play 'em out like a Cub Scout. So leave troopin' for MCs at war, and if it's a battle let the crowd keep score. Cuz me and the drummer make drama, and that's word to mother...run for cover. |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001)
Me and Eric B was coolin' at the Paladium
Seen a all-world covered girl, I said "Hey lady I'm Sorry if You're in a rush - Don't let me hold ya up Or interveen or interrupt, but. . . You got the look - I wanna get to know ya better I had to let her know - but yo, I didn't sweat her 'Cause if you woulda seen what I was seein' Almost looked Korean, but European. When she spoke, her accent was self-explanatory - Even her body language told the story Her name was Mahogony - twin's name was Ebony I said "My name is Ra - and this is Eric B" Since the music was loud, I said "let's take a walk, So we could talk and see New York. Show time doesn't start until one o'clock And once I entered your mind I wouldn't wanna stop Caressin' ya thoughts till we was thinkin' the same Calm ya nerves, massage ya brain Each mic is a mineral, poetry's protein Verse is a vitamin - Affects like Codine So tell me how you feel and I'll reveal A pill that'll heal ya pain - 'cause I'm real She musta OD'd 'cause she couldn't resist She spoke slowly when she told me this, she said Chorus: Over Me, She's goin' crazy She'll rub me on my chest and call me Mr. Sexy She said she'd have my kids and help me make my next G Tell me I ain't finesse Mahogony . . . Verse Two: So I prescribed her, something to revive And surprise her, she's liver and much more wiser Than the light I shine when my brain cells spark, Come to me so we can glow in the dark And soon, you can represent the moon As long as I keep ya in tune I'll tell ya who ya are and why ya here Take it in stride 'cause it might take a year It's funny - how time flies when ya havin' fun We got close and it was almost one She kissed me slow, but you know how far a kiss can go F*ck around and miss the show So I told her to hold that thought real tight We can finish where we left off later on tonite Back to the scene of the crime on time As they introduced the 'Fiend of the Rhyme' She stood with a birds-eye view of me Thinkin' of later on of what she would do to me The back of the room I could see her eyes gloom Patient, but hopin' that the show was over soon As the place was ripped in half, she made her way to the front row So I said "let's go" I packed my mic as they screamed for an encore The speakers were blown, plus my mic was sore Besides I got places to go, ladies to see And she could tell me how crazy she was over me We drove off - she said she liked the way that I performed And couldn't wait to get 'soft and warm', I said, "I've been watchin' you, watchin' me Looks I received made it hard to MC I can take a hint, so I knew that she Wanted my "Agony Agony Ag-on-y" in her bod-y Showed her some sights, then I took her to the Condo She was pipin' hot, but I kept my calm So She asked how come I don't smile I said, "Everything's fine, but I'm in a New York state of mind!" As we reached the kingdom, she said bring some Champagne, she'll entertain then sing some Sentimental, songs real gentle, It hit the spot and you know where it went to As we embraced I felt her heart pumpin' I knew she was in the mood for somethin' So I laid on my back and relaxed It wasn't the Perignon that made her collaspe Over me |
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001) | |||||
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| from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001) | |||||
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from Eric B.& Rakim - Let The Rhythm Hit`Em (2001)
I'm the arsenal I got artillery, lyrics of ammo Rounds of rhythm Then I'm 'a give 'em piano Bring a bullet-proof vest Nothin' to ricochet ready to aim at the brain ~Now what the trigger say Tempos triflin' Felt like a rifle Massage 'n' melodies Might go right through Simultaneously like an Uzi Nothin' can bruise me Lyrics let up when lady say don't lose me So re-load quickly And you better hit me While I'm lettin' this fifi get wit me You steppin' with .007 Better make it snappy No time to do your hair, baby Brothers are bustin' at me Beats and bullets pass me None on target They want the R hit But wtch the god get Quicker, the tongue is the trigger 'Cause I'm real fast Let off some rhythm at 'em Let 'em feel the blast Penetrate at a crazy rate This ain't no .38 Hit 'em at point blank range And watch 'em radiate Runnin' out of ammunition I'm done wit' em You ask me how I did 'em I let the rhythm hit 'em I push a power that's punishable Better be a prisoner The hit man is the Brother wit' charisma Showing you that I have Powerful paragraphs Followers will become leaders But without a path Ya mentally paralyzed Crippled ya third eye Rhymes are blurred Then it occurred that you heard I Reduced the friction with crucifixion Let loose the mix then Boost the piston Eric hit 'em with' some of that Cut like a lumberjack And me gettin' hit back It won't be none of that I'm untouchable You see me in 3-D When I let the rhythm hit another M.C. Lyrics made of lead Enters your head Then eruptions of a mass production Will spread when Music is louder Full of gunpower Microphone machinery When I see a crowd of Party people pumpin' Their fist like this Ya hide in the back Thinkin' that I might miss But the R is accurate Plus I'm packed up with Educated punch lines that I have to hit Whatever I aim at I line 'em up Ya body is weak, feel with pain That time is up You been hit with somethin' Different, isn't it? Rakim is gonna radiate and nothing's equivalent Nothin' can harm me Why try to bar me You couldn't come around THE RA with aN army You'll get wrecked by the architect So respect 'em I disconnect 'em, soon as I inject 'em With radiation Put 'em by the basement Bust his chest open Bash his face in Let it split 'im Since he brought his main man wit' 'im He ask me how I did 'im I let the rhythm hit 'im Let it hit 'im Dance floor's dangerous Packed in like a briefcase Rhyth with ral rough rhyme Beats with deep bass Girls with tight pants Maybe they might dance Tonight if the Rs on the mike There's a slight chance The crowd is crucial M.C.'s grounds are neutral Now that you're here let me introduce you Get ready I'm hard read like graffiti but steady Science I drop is real heavy Radiant energy, that'll be the penalty Touch the third rail on the pain of remedy The prescription's one every hour Now it's a HABIT Ya need another hit from the freestyle fanatic Attention: follow directions real close Keep out of reach of children Beware of overdose Too many milligram NO ONE made a iller jam My rhyme is the rhythm of thoughts That kill a man Ideas for the ear to fear Might split 'im He'll never forget 'im He'll rest in peace wit' 'em At least when he left he'll know what hit 'im The last breath of the words of death Was the rhythm Now throw you hands in the air and yo, go Rakim will do the rest of this slow If I speed they know you'll blow the hell up If I slow up, THEY'LL catch up, hell no Wicked as I kicked it Don't need to remix it 'Cause I prefixed it Reversed and switched it To perform to perfection Section for section Rhymes keep connectin' Ya guessin' what's next an' Blood pressure rises, ya damn near lost it Ya hit the ground burnin' and woke up frostbit' 'Cause when I explained ya can't complain for pain Travel through the brain hit a vein Then remain, let it radiate Vibes will vibrate Why did you violate Now I'm 'a have to let the style brak Moans now the tone is ingrown After this here's thrown, gimme another microphone Before I get that fifi I met Whisper I wanna reach HER intellect Kiss her 'cause I wanna give her the most respect So I shine and let the write reflect Hold 'er, mold 'er, make 'er feel older Lay her on my shoulder EEverything I told her Makes her feel secure whenever I'm wit' 'er And you know how I did 'er Me and the rhythm hit 'er |
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