Rakim is returning to the spotlight with the release of a concert DVD and a tour with a new album to follow. Sounds like he’s ready to make amends for 8 years of near silence! First up is the tour which is in progress right now - with Ghostface Killah, Brother Ali and Rhythm Roots Allstars. The concert DVD will be released very soon but the new album will be out early next year.

Eric B and Rakim back in di day…

The Hip Hop Live! tour is heading north through the sunshine state and onward to Portland and Seattle during the first week of November. They will continue across the US throughout November.

Rakim Digs Into The R-kives: Live Lost and Found Concert DVD

The DVD will come next, titled “The R-kives: Live Lost and Found” and features live performances, interviews, backstage, in the bus, plus an “enhanced CD featuring previously unreleased new material.”

New Rakim Album The Seventh Seal

Finally, a new album titled The Seventh Seal will appear early next year. Pitchfork reported:

Though not a concept album, The Seventh Seal focuses on the theme of tearing hip-hop down to its essentials and building it back up to previously unknown heights. Rakim’s done a little non-musical building as well, establishing his own Ra Records, which will not only release The Seventh Seal but also provide a label home, management company, and distribution for other artists.

Rakim Hip Hop Links

Pitchfork also has an extensive interview with Rakim, plus the full tour schedule.
Rakim music

Kanye West feat. Nas, Krs-One & Rakim - “Classic (Remix)”:

Check out how young everyone looks in the vid!

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