This 1988 release established Eric B. & Rakim as the quintessential "new school" rap act, bridging the gap between hard-hitting beats and complex, sophisticated rhymes. Its intricate production and Rakim's influential flow set a new standard for lyrical prowess in hip-hop.
- The album was produced entirely by Eric B. and released on UNI Records.
- It reached number 7 on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
- "Follow the Leader" was Eric B. & Rakim's second of four studio albums and features the singles "Follow the Leader" and "Microphone Fiend."
Eric B. & Rakim are a pioneering hip-hop duo from Long Island, New York, renowned for their intricate lyricism and innovative production. This 1988 release cemented their status as titans of the genre, arriving at the peak of their creative powers and influencing countless artists who followed.
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