Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at DMX’s and Rakim’s recent collaboration for “Don’t Call Me.” The visual picks up at No Mystery Studios with the artists as they lay down their respective verses with singer Shontelle taking the lead for the song’s hook. The visual actually plays out as a sort of in-studio performance of the track as it showcases each artist recording their contributions in full.
Rakim and DMX combine forces for a new track titled “Don’t Call Me” featuring singers Shontelle and Aleks D. The rock infused track provides the perfect platform for the legendary MC’s to drop cautionary lyrics and encourage listeners to weed out snakes in the grass and while also delivering reflective bars on life. Take a listen to the random collaboration via the audio stream above.
This is tight. Take a look at this recent interview Rakim had with journalist Jeff Mao at the Red Bull Music Academy. I enjoyed this sit down.
Hip hop’s golden age began in 1986, the day Rakim stepped to a microphone to record “Eric B Is President.” Only 18 years old (though he sounded considerably more worldly), Rakim (real name William Griffin) had a smooth, effortless flow that brought a cool melodicism and high intelligence to the MC game—he gave both fire and ice, set within the wiry frame of his serious features. Even those who didn’t get the Five Percenter reference wouldn’t have bridled at his nickname, God. His partnership with his DJ, Eric B, yielded four great albums and numerous classic singles before Rakim split for a solo career. Despite initial success with 1997’s The 18th Letter, he endured several frustratingly fruitless years signed to Dr Dre’s Aftermath, working on an album that never came. Now Rakim back in his native New York, the city where his immense influence is most clearly audible, notably in other NYC wordsmiths such as Nas. As recently as 2012, The Source named him the greatest MC of all time.
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