On July 7, 1987, Long Island, New York duo Eric B. & Rakim released their seminal debut Paid In Full through 4th & B’way/Island Records. Although Hip Hop today is a far cry from what it was in the late 1980’s, the effects of Rakim’s rhymes and Eric B.’s beats are still being felt in modern rap music. Now, The Awl’s Dav Bry decided to reflect on the legendary LP, what made it so good the first time around and why it holds up even today.
Check out The Awl’s “Eric B. & Rakim’s Paid In Full At 25″
Last month, Hot 97 shock jock Peter Rosenberg raised the ire of the YMCMB team, after he trashed Nicki Minaj’s “Starships” live at Summer Jam 2012, prompting Lil Wayne to pull Young Money’s performances that night at the last minute. But just because Rosenberg doesn’t care for Nicki’s pop leanings, that doesn’t mean he hates every song from a female rapper. Now, Complex has caught up with the controversial DJ to name his favorite 25 favorite songs from female emcees, including Lady of Rage’s “Afro Puffs,” Eve’s “Double R What” and even a choice cut from Nicki.
Check out Complex’s “Peter Rosenberg’s 25 Favorite Female Rap Songs”
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Finally, perhaps the most notable story from this week was OFWGKTA singer Frank Ocean’s recent open letter discussing his bisexuality. While the news stirred up a lot of negative reactions, a large majority of the music world responded supportively to Ocean’s decision to address his sexuality in such a public forum. Now, in a recent blpost with Jay-Z’s Life+Times blog, journalist Dream Hampton penned a response to Frank commending him for his bravery.
