Eric B. & Rakim

The iconic hip-hop album Paid in Full was released on July 7, 1987, through the Island Records subsidiary 4th & B'way. It completely revolutionized hip-hop by introducing Rakim's complex, internal rhyme schemes to the genre. The project is widely considered by music critics to be one of the greatest and most influential rap albums of all time.

Eric B. heavily relied on sampling classic James Brown records, alongside early production help from Marley Marl and Rakim himself. Their use of heavy drum breaks and funk loops heavily defined the golden age sound of late 80s hip-hop. Tracks like "Eric B. Is President" relied entirely on Bobby Byrd's "I Know You Got Soul" for their infectious groove.

Their highly acclaimed second album is Follow the Leader, released via MCA Records in 1988. It cemented Rakim's status as one of the greatest lyricists of all time and featured darker, more sophisticated production. The title track features a famous beat that utilizes a prominent Bob James jazz sample to anchor the rhythm.

After disbanding in the early 1990s, the duo reunited for a highly anticipated reunion tour in 2018. They performed classic tracks from Paid in Full across major festivals like the Governors Ball. Despite the tour being highly successful, they have not released any new studio music since their 1992 album Don't Sweat the Technique.