What makes Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em by Eric B. & Rakim notable?

The album is significant for its impact on hip-hop production and lyricism, featuring complex flows and sophisticated themes that influenced countless artists. It reached number 14 on the Billboard 200 chart and received widespread critical acclaim, solidifying Eric B. & Rakim's status as pioneers of East Coast hip-hop during a transformative era in the genre. Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em is Eric B. & Rakim's third studio album, following their critically acclaimed 1988 release Follow the Leader. At this point in their career, Rakim had already established himself as one of hip-hop's premier lyricists, while Eric B. was recognized for his innovative production techniques. The album marked a moment of continued evolution for the duo, showcasing their growth as artists within a rapidly changing musical landscape.

Who is Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em for?

Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em works well if you're into lyrical complexity appreciation, thought-provoking listening sessions and steady groove exploration.

How many songs are on Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em?

Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em has 11 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em

Eric B. & Rakim · 1990

54 min · 11 tracks · East Coast hip-hop

A dynamic fusion of intricate lyricism and hard-hitting beats that redefined East Coast hip-hop in the early '90s.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Let the Rhythm Hit ’Em — The title track features Rakim's signature flowing style layered over a powerful beat, encapsulating the album's essence of rhythm and lyrical dominance.
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No Omega — This track showcases Rakim's ability to blend personal introspection with broader social commentary, supported by Eric B.'s masterful production.
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In the Ghetto — With vivid storytelling and a haunting beat, this song highlights Rakim's narrative prowess, addressing issues of urban life in a poignant manner.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album combines intricate lyricism with innovative production, marking a significant moment in East Coast hip-hop.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a powerful drumbeat and Rakim's intricate flow, setting a high-energy tone that persists through most of the album.
The album includes moments of tempo variation, such as the slower pace in 'In the Ghetto', which contrasts with the more aggressive tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

lyrical complexity appreciation
thought-provoking listening sessions
steady groove exploration
long, immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

Career context: Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em is Eric B. & Rakim's third studio album, following their critically acclaimed 1988 release Follow the Leader. At this point in their career, Rakim had already established himself as one of hip-hop's premier lyricists, while Eric B. was recognized for his innovative production techniques. The album marked a moment of continued evolution for the duo, showcasing their growth as artists within a rapidly changing musical landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: A Tribe Called Quest· Nas· Gang Starr