![\"rakim-the-seventh-seal\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blackouthiphop.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/10\/rakim-the-seventh-seal.jpg?fit=640%2C496&ssl=1\" "\\"rakim-the-seventh-seal\\"")
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His first full album of new material in almost a decade, The Seventh Seal<\/em> is Rakim’s contemporary observation of the Hip-Hop culture he helped define. While staying loyal to his New York roots, the artist has created a body of work that encompasses the very best of regional, underground and mainstream styles reformed and delivered through his intricate lyricism and the seemingly effortless flow for which he is revered. The first single, Holy Are You<\/em> (produced by long-time Rakim collaborator Nick Wiz for Preserve the Art) embodies the overall concept of the album, communicating Rakim’s worldview and spirituality through artistic interpretation of scriptures and revelations about the coming of the Apocalypse and each persons role in the world around them.
\nThe artist states, “The Seventh Seal<\/em> is my own revelation…my way of taking the best of what Hip-Hop has to offer, what we as a culture and a community have to offer, putting my stamp on it and leading us forward while constantly respecting what we’ve already accomplished. When you’ve been blessed with a career like mine, you develop a deep relationship with the music and that love is recognized by the true heads that share it with you. Holy Are You<\/em> is for those core brothers and sisters…the first building block – the lyrical and spiritual piece – of an album that’s my monument to Hip-Hop past, present and future. You’ll see us keep building as we break through each Seal…showing the best of what I can do in many forms, bringing the energy and having fun, but first I’m laying that foundation and give my longtime fans the conscious fire they expect.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\nThe Seventh Seal<\/em> is expected to drop November 17th. You can listen to the album preview here<\/a>.
\nContinue reading for Rakim’s US tour dates.<\/p>\n