Although Eric B. and Rakim were not among the 2024 Rock’ n’ Roll Hall of Fame class, they harbor no hard feelings. TMZ contacted the rap duo after the inductees were announced, and they responded to this year’s snub with a statement.
“Congratulations to the diverse group of artists inducted into the Rock Hall this year,” they tell TMZ Hip-Hop. “Seeing Tribe and Mary on the list besides Cher, Ozzy, Kool and the Gang and all of the other icons shows how inclusive the institution has become.”
This year’s Hall of Fame class includes Mary J. Blige, the Queen of Hip Hop Soul, and the legendary 90s hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest. Eric B. and Rakim have often been acknowledged as one of the best rap groups ever.
This marks Eric B. & Rakim’s second nomination, following their first in 2012. Mariah Carey, Kool & The Gang, and Sade were among the nominees who did not make this year’s final vote. “Keep voting … we’ll join you soon!” said the duo.
Eric B. and Rakim released their groundbreaking debut album, Paid In Full, in 1987. Rakim’s hit songs “Paid In Full,” “Follow The Leader,” and “I Ain’t No Joke” inspired generations of rap artists. Eric B.’s sound was a blueprint for producers to follow for generations. Rakim is often called the “God MC” by big names in rap like Dr. Dre, Nas, and Jay-Z.
Nas honored Rakim with the inaugural Hip Hop Grandmaster Award, presented by the Paid In Full Foundation, in 2023. Together with Houston rap legend Scarface, the award comes with a grant and health benefits. The award recognizes Hip-Hop pioneers and supports their creative and intellectual endeavors for the betterment of society.
Eric B. and Rakim released their final album, Don’t Sweat The Technique, in 1992. After the duo split, Rakim released three more solo albums, the latest being The Seventh Seal in 2009.