Paid in Full
Eric B. & Rakim · 1987
45 min · 10 tracks · East Coast hip-hop
A groundbreaking fusion of intricate lyricism and innovative sampling that redefined hip-hop's sonic landscape.
Top tracks — play these first
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I Ain’t No Joke — This track exemplifies Rakim's complex lyrical style and confident delivery, establishing him as a leader in the genre. The seamless blend of Eric B.'s production sets a precedent for future collaborations in hip-hop.
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I Know You Got Soul — Renowned for its infectious hook and powerful message about self-awareness in music, this track became a staple sample for many artists. Its influence extends beyond hip-hop, impacting R&B and pop music.
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Paid in Full — 'Paid in Full' serves as a declaration of independence and ambition, showcasing Rakim's storytelling prowess within a compelling beat. This title track solidifies the album's overarching themes of success and self-reliance.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's innovative sampling and Rakim's intricate lyricism set a high standard for hip-hop.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of layered samples, with each track building on a foundation of funk and soul elements.
- Rakim's delivery is characterized by complex internal rhymes and a laid-back flow that contrasts with the energetic beats.
- Several tracks incorporate call-and-response structures, engaging listeners and creating a dynamic interaction between the artist and audience.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Defined its genre or moment. 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
- dynamic lyrical exploration
- steady rhythmic flow
- engaging storytelling elements
- thought-provoking introspection
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Paid in Full is Eric B. & Rakim's debut album, marking a pivotal launchpad for their careers in the late '80s hip-hop scene. Released on July 7, 1987, it established Rakim as a formidable lyricist and showcased Eric B.'s pioneering use of samples, setting high standards for future productions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- A Tribe Called Quest· Nas· Gang Starr
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 I Ain’t No Joke 3:55
- 2 Eric B. Is on the Cut 3:52
- 3 My Melody 6:48
- 4 I Know You Got Soul 4:50
- 5 Move the Crowd 3:50
- 6 Paid in Full 3:54
- 7 As the Rhyme Goes On 4:03
- 8 Chinese Arithmetic 4:10
- 9 Eric B. Is President 6:20
- 10 Extended Beat 3:49
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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