Sweat the Technique: Revelations on Creativity from the Lyrical Genius

I consider Rakim as one of the greatest emcees of all time. If he's not on your Mount Rushmore of emcees, i don't know what you're thinking. I truly enjoyed the honor and privilege to read and learn more about "The R"!

Thirty plus years after his debut, Rakim invites readers to follow the leader into his literary universe Sweat The Technique: Revelations On A Creativity From A Lyrical Genius. Billed as "part memoir-part writing guide," Ra goes behind the rhyme and explores the technique and inspiration behind his conceptual genius. He also shares perspectives on his spiritual views and offers motivational jewels for the reader. Offering rare reflections of his life and career, Rakim still holds the literary reigns tight like a grudge. Leaving topics previously touched on in social media blogs and old interviews on the cutting room floor, Rakim bypasses wild-style stories of his younger days when he and DJ Eric B rolled deep with the infamous Paid In Full posse. Ditto for the obligatory mouth-dropping industry confessions and untold stories recounting the late Eighties' testosterone-filled rap industry. Technique really comes alive when Rakim reflects on his early days as "Popo" and "Lil Griff"---the scrappy kid from Wyandanch, Long Island, part music/sports prodigy----part gun-toting hard rock, nurtured by his mother's support and guided by his father's wise and steady hand. Recounting the oft-told story of his entry in the rap game, Rakim shares how an unexpected visit from Eric B puts him on the fast track to becoming the teen-aged hip hop prodigy---automatically better than every rap peer and pioneer. Technique captures the dizzying highs: the big money paydays and rapid career ascent requiring Rakim to drop out of school. The bidding war that led to him signing the first million-dollar rap contract at the tender age of twenty. ("Just two years earlier, I had no thought of making money as a MC and now I was out buying a Benz, a Jeep Cherokee, jewelry, clothes and sneakers."). It reveals the lows: the pressures of young fatherhood and his grandmother's passing. Rakim expresses the guilt of reluctantly tending to a hot careers while his hero---his beloved father succumbed to bone cancer. Momentarily pulling back the veil of discretion, Rakim shares stories of his first love and briefly unpacks his sometimes conflicted relationship with his partner. He celebrates the accomplishments of their unlikely partnership while revealing his desire to be independent of it at the start of their journey. He revisits the growing pains, creative and business differences that would lead to their breakup as well as their tension filled and triumphant reunion. Sweat The Technique's circular prose at times can be thematic. Like Rakim's syncopated flow, it swings back and forth, both discreet and revealing all at once. Recollections capture the GOD MC's many moods and grooves. Bold and testy like Miles. Enigmatic like Monk. An ember-like spirit stoked by competition and self-mastery. A soaring rap deity whose family is the wind beneath his wings. More EP than a full-length player, Sweat The Technique still has enough soul to move the crowd.

I'm speechless. This was a GREAT read. I will definitely read it again. Rakim takes on a trip through his life & journey to becoming The God MC. A true Master of his craft. Simply put... Lyrical Genius.

The God MC has always been a gifted writer. I've listened to his music for over thirty years. After reading this,it gave me deeper insight to one of the realest,and humble Brothas in the game. Peace, God.

I've now read KRS 1, RZA, U God and some other stuff from hip hop artists and this is a good one. Rakim breaks down his main events in his life and things a MC might want to know and relish. I really dig how he is a mystic, because that speaks to me much more than gangster rap and young/sex/drug/money stuff...which I can enjoy like a small desert from time to time without it warping my spiritual way of thinking; all that stuff is kind of like succumbing to shallowing exciting temptations when the greatest stuff is simple inner wisdom and a life that isn't a circus of being a big somebody, pleasure and bragging. Rakim makes being a nobody...but yet one who serves in the capacity that he does, something that many MC's (including many of the greats) won't ever achieve with all the women and cars out there to hijack their pen for a whispering shadow dangling fantasies.... Good book:)

This week’s book 📖 was phenomenal! Sweat The Technique: Revelations on Creativity from the Lyrical Genius Rakim! What a mind! I have LOVED this man’s music 🎶 lyrics, swag, energy and everything since the first time I heard his music on the radio! His prose in this book which is a lesson and memoir is enlightening! I enjoyed reading how he creates and his insight of history, religion, mathematics, architecture and so much more! Artists always amaze me, Rakim is..... whew DEEP! Love this in a #BlackMan I’m a year younger than him and grew up in the NYC area! It was nostalgic reading about the places he performed in like the LQ Latin Quarters club in #NYC! Yass! I cut my party club life in those same places! Thank you @officialrakimallah for yet another master piece! As-salamu ‘alaykum A MUST READ #Reading2020

Grew up in Strong Island. So proud of this lyricist and now fellow author.

Such a good read. Of course he is a great storyteller. The skills and techniques in rap are reflected Ted in a vivid, eloquent share.

Very well written, entertaining and educational for both hip hop fans, artists, and really anyone else. I had already heard a lot of his music but I listened to or re-listened to the tracks he mentioned and/or dissected as he told his story and I think that will enrich the experience of reading this book for others as well

I very much enjoyed your book. I've been listening to your music for years and have always thought you were the best, even modeled my flow after you. Hard as can be with no profanity has always inspired me and I thank you for that. Learning about your life, how you grew up, and how you blew up, connects me more to your music. How "Follow the Leader" came to be gave me chills. Hearing you discuss "The 18th Letter" gave me great insight into what I believe is your best work, good to know you felt totally free to be yourself on that record. "Roam through battle zones with chrome for chaperone," just unreal Ra. Very much appreciate you sharing your life with me, thank you for letting me in. -Flamer

I consider Rakim as one of the greatest emcees of all time. If he's not on your Mount Rushmore of emcees, i don't know what you're thinking. I truly enjoyed the honor and privilege to read and learn more about "The R"!

Thirty plus years after his debut, Rakim invites readers to follow the leader into his literary universe Sweat The Technique: Revelations On A Creativity From A Lyrical Genius. Billed as "part memoir-part writing guide," Ra goes behind the rhyme and explores the technique and inspiration behind his conceptual genius. He also shares perspectives on his spiritual views and offers motivational jewels for the reader. Offering rare reflections of his life and career, Rakim still holds the literary reigns tight like a grudge. Leaving topics previously touched on in social media blogs and old interviews on the cutting room floor, Rakim bypasses wild-style stories of his younger days when he and DJ Eric B rolled deep with the infamous Paid In Full posse. Ditto for the obligatory mouth-dropping industry confessions and untold stories recounting the late Eighties' testosterone-filled rap industry. Technique really comes alive when Rakim reflects on his early days as "Popo" and "Lil Griff"---the scrappy kid from Wyandanch, Long Island, part music/sports prodigy----part gun-toting hard rock, nurtured by his mother's support and guided by his father's wise and steady hand. Recounting the oft-told story of his entry in the rap game, Rakim shares how an unexpected visit from Eric B puts him on the fast track to becoming the teen-aged hip hop prodigy---automatically better than every rap peer and pioneer. Technique captures the dizzying highs: the big money paydays and rapid career ascent requiring Rakim to drop out of school. The bidding war that led to him signing the first million-dollar rap contract at the tender age of twenty. ("Just two years earlier, I had no thought of making money as a MC and now I was out buying a Benz, a Jeep Cherokee, jewelry, clothes and sneakers."). It reveals the lows: the pressures of young fatherhood and his grandmother's passing. Rakim expresses the guilt of reluctantly tending to a hot careers while his hero---his beloved father succumbed to bone cancer. Momentarily pulling back the veil of discretion, Rakim shares stories of his first love and briefly unpacks his sometimes conflicted relationship with his partner. He celebrates the accomplishments of their unlikely partnership while revealing his desire to be independent of it at the start of their journey. He revisits the growing pains, creative and business differences that would lead to their breakup as well as their tension filled and triumphant reunion. Sweat The Technique's circular prose at times can be thematic. Like Rakim's syncopated flow, it swings back and forth, both discreet and revealing all at once. Recollections capture the GOD MC's many moods and grooves. Bold and testy like Miles. Enigmatic like Monk. An ember-like spirit stoked by competition and self-mastery. A soaring rap deity whose family is the wind beneath his wings. More EP than a full-length player, Sweat The Technique still has enough soul to move the crowd.

I'm speechless. This was a GREAT read. I will definitely read it again. Rakim takes on a trip through his life & journey to becoming The God MC. A true Master of his craft. Simply put... Lyrical Genius.

The God MC has always been a gifted writer. I've listened to his music for over thirty years. After reading this,it gave me deeper insight to one of the realest,and humble Brothas in the game. Peace, God.

I've now read KRS 1, RZA, U God and some other stuff from hip hop artists and this is a good one. Rakim breaks down his main events in his life and things a MC might want to know and relish. I really dig how he is a mystic, because that speaks to me much more than gangster rap and young/sex/drug/money stuff...which I can enjoy like a small desert from time to time without it warping my spiritual way of thinking; all that stuff is kind of like succumbing to shallowing exciting temptations when the greatest stuff is simple inner wisdom and a life that isn't a circus of being a big somebody, pleasure and bragging. Rakim makes being a nobody...but yet one who serves in the capacity that he does, something that many MC's (including many of the greats) won't ever achieve with all the women and cars out there to hijack their pen for a whispering shadow dangling fantasies.... Good book:)

This week’s book 📖 was phenomenal! Sweat The Technique: Revelations on Creativity from the Lyrical Genius Rakim! What a mind! I have LOVED this man’s music 🎶 lyrics, swag, energy and everything since the first time I heard his music on the radio! His prose in this book which is a lesson and memoir is enlightening! I enjoyed reading how he creates and his insight of history, religion, mathematics, architecture and so much more! Artists always amaze me, Rakim is..... whew DEEP! Love this in a #BlackMan I’m a year younger than him and grew up in the NYC area! It was nostalgic reading about the places he performed in like the LQ Latin Quarters club in #NYC! Yass! I cut my party club life in those same places! Thank you @officialrakimallah for yet another master piece! As-salamu ‘alaykum A MUST READ #Reading2020

Grew up in Strong Island. So proud of this lyricist and now fellow author.

Such a good read. Of course he is a great storyteller. The skills and techniques in rap are reflected Ted in a vivid, eloquent share.

Very well written, entertaining and educational for both hip hop fans, artists, and really anyone else. I had already heard a lot of his music but I listened to or re-listened to the tracks he mentioned and/or dissected as he told his story and I think that will enrich the experience of reading this book for others as well

I very much enjoyed your book. I've been listening to your music for years and have always thought you were the best, even modeled my flow after you. Hard as can be with no profanity has always inspired me and I thank you for that. Learning about your life, how you grew up, and how you blew up, connects me more to your music. How "Follow the Leader" came to be gave me chills. Hearing you discuss "The 18th Letter" gave me great insight into what I believe is your best work, good to know you felt totally free to be yourself on that record. "Roam through battle zones with chrome for chaperone," just unreal Ra. Very much appreciate you sharing your life with me, thank you for letting me in. -Flamer

Exactly as ordered

I always loved Rakim. This book was informative. It took me back into my adolescent years. Rakim is hip hop royalty.

The ability to write well requires discipline. Rakim is a true wordsmith. His lyricism doesn't just end syncopated over break-beats. Rakim breathes life into his life story with masterful selections of words. Memoir writing presents a struggle of how much to reveal. Sweat the Technique: Revelations on Creativity from the Lyrical Genius is an eloquent personal narrative, disclosing never-before-told details of the multidisciplinary Hip Hop musician and master lyricist, as well as his iconic career. This memoir is instruction for creative artists just beginning to break a sweat, a gift in that it is a detailed blueprint of his technique for spinning thoughts into platinum. Eartha Watts Hicks Harlem World Magazine

Satisfied

Outstanding story telling of an extraordinary life! Aaaaaand when he breaks down HOW he has created these iconic masterpieces?!? Mindblowing!!!!

Honestly, I LOVED 'Paid in Full' and must say that although I did not closely follow Rakim in the years following, this book gives a glimpse into the man as an artist and person. Kudos to him for living his life through his art and the lens of true intention - loving God, his art, himself and his family. Very inspiring...wish that current day 'rappers' would read this and take notes!

Had no idea he wrote a book/memoir. Not enough is known about the greatest emcee ever. Read with a open mind. The book is not for everyone.

Rakim has been one of my top 3 rappers of all time. This book just made me more of a fan. He breaks down some of his rhymes in the book which makes me go back and listen to the track differently. PEACE GOD AND CONGRATS ON ALL YOUR SUCCESS.

A great read from the mind of the legendary Hip-Hop god MC: Rakim! From his days starting out to his thoughts of his life growing up. A must read. Recommended for a true real Hip-Hop fan!!

I read this in two days, will continue to read OFTEN and will make the audiobook part of my library. Brother Ra isn’t called “The GOD MC” for you-know-what’s and giggles, the man is otherworldly and for those who lack understanding of the CULTURE and history of hip-hop, get ready for some serious enlightenment. FANTASTIC book!

Great book! A glimpse into the mind of the greatest MC of all time. He’s deeper than even his lyrics allude to and he stays true to the game.

Thankful that the God MC dropped this jewel. The book is deeply insightful. It weaves together stories and spirituality in a way that defines the creative space as an outward expression of who Rakim Allah truly is. Priceless.

This will make a great gift for anyone aspiring to be an musical artist. You won't really be inspired to read this if you're not a huge Rakim fa. It had its moments; I can respect the mindset he has and being able to peek into the mind of someone that is considered one of the greatest at his sport was the most enjoyable part for me.

Great insight into Rakim the MC. This man is about more then just rhyming words at the end of a sentence.

Well written book telling Ra's story and hearing his describe his style as an almost simple eventuality. The pairing his description with the lyrics and hearing the music in my head makes one understand why some many of his songs are still classic!

A true musical prodigy. This book is a must read for all Rakim’s true fans.

Bought as a gift and recipient was very pleased.

An amazing read if you love hip hop!

I purchased this book for my husband and he loved it! Very well written.

Classic

He did not disappoint and not surprisingly displayed wit, intelligence, scholarship, ruggedness, swag, integrity, a love for black people, and all people and most importantly a respect for God. Well done good and faithful servant !!!!!

great book

Fascinating tome. It was bought for a freshman college student who enjoys writing and composition in his time between course work and his job.

Been a fan of Rakim since I was a kid. Can't wait to read this.

I gave this book as a gift! It is a great read and I loved the journey I took with the Rakim Allah being able to become a little closer to him💕

Absolutely wonderful book. Deep and enlightening. If you are a true 'hip hop' fan this book is a must have in your library.

Really enjoyed seeing the insight of a very influential artists, learned a lot a out the man, I mean the Master.

Great easy read filled with so much Knowledge,wisdom,and classic stories and gems from one of the most prolific writers and artists not just in Hip-Hop but in music period.

My stepfather is a huge hiphop fan and rakim has always been on top of his list. It turnout to be a great birthday gift.

Arrived in perfect condition. Can’t wait to get blessed jewels from the God Emcee

loved it!!!!!!7

learn how to be the alpha with no omega! Thanks for sharing, Ra!

It's such a BLESSING to receive insight from one the greatest lyricist to ever touch a microphone. Thinking of a Master Plan

Well Written Book....One of the Best Autobiography of a a Hip Hop Legend I’ve read. 👌🏾👑🏆💯

Great book from the Rap God himself!!

This book is awesome. He has always been a great story teller. He also gives you a glimpse of his childhood.

The book is a good read. I've enjoyed the experience of reading about one of my favorite MC in the game.

King of the Hill

Item in good condition & in adequate

For True HipHop Heads a great read.

It opened my eyes to a lot in his life

Book came fast. No damage. Ready to read it.

Nice content and excellent quality.

Interesting perspectives from a hip hop lyrical master

The greatest of all time

A MUST READ BOOK.

Absolutely Perfect! Extremely Great!

Good book

Awesome read!

Wife loves the book.

Gift

A book by a legend

Great book...❤💜💙💛

Great read

Must READ!!

Great book

Excellent read!!!

Dopey

It's an autobiography of a great artist. Nothing general about songwriting but a personal point of view from a genius.

It would've been nice if there was a chapter list included.

Feel like I know him he let you into his story you can feel the struggles most important he got his family and he is still in the game.

I highly recommend this book if you grew up in the 80s and 90s listening to rap music. And I highly recommend you get the audiobook rather than the hard copy. Listening to that superfamiliar voice of the greatest emcee of all time is really great. We've heard the records a million times, and to hear him narrate his personal history and provide advice is very insightful. For those of us who grew up far from Wyandanch in every sense, the book is an open window into the long climb of the ladder from someone who rose all the way to the top.

I likes Rakim's storytelling in this book. I enjoyed reading about his origin story and his philosophy on his art. I did feel at times like he went on odd tangents and got a bit too in the weeds on a few things. I also found the order of the book hard to follow. Much respect to a hip hop legend!

“Whatever your medium and whatever your level of talent or accomplishment, the first step to unleashing your creative potential is creating connection. Connect with your purpose; connect with your environment; connect with your inspirations; connect with your audience; and connect with the universal energies that encircle and encapsulate all of us. Anyone can learn tricks and techniques to perfect their craft and follow the examples of masters before them, but the connection you have to yourself must be the ultimate artistic guide. You are your benchmark to success. You are your competition. You are the manifestation of cymatic vibration that shapes the world around you.” Rakim Allah And so were the final words of Rakim Allah in his absolutely spellbinding autobiography: Sweat The Technique: Revelations On Creativity From The Lyrical Genius. What an amazing journey. I spent my entire Saturday holed up in my apartment reading this book in one sitting. I think that I only stopped to eat lunch and go to the bathroom twice. I was a Rakim fan, but now I actually know why his music affected us the way that it did. Without getting into a lot of details because you too should read this gem—but craft is everything good people. I mean this brother is a real scientific wizard who tapped deep into the unseen and spawned some of the most intricately weaved poetic narratives of the last 100 years. This is a manual for how to live and how to tap into the deepest recesses of your spiritual consciousness and provide the world your greatest gifts. This is not about being nostalgic or fetishizing the “Golden Era” of Hiphop. More importantly it’s about understanding the zeitgeist of the culture before and after it aligned and collided with the market. This is about craft, aesthetics, purpose, vision, value, and self-worth. Grab this book good people. Read it to your kids. Share it with your friends. Honor love with a little love. You will not be disappointed. #rakim #rakimgodmc #rakimallah

I woke up one day and heard Rakim would be in Phoenix, AZ to promote his book at a book signing. I had a day off so I decided to cheat and order audible and got a delight as Rakim narrated the masterpiece. This book was well written as his lyrics and I could not stop listening. I traveled thru my teen years with Rakim, I even stopped to play tracks back that he had mentioned so I had a whole vibe going. As I stood in line to meet Rakim I has so many thoughts of what I would say. Finally that time came where I got to meet the Rap God. I thought about not asking a question that had to do with rap, but asked something that I learned from his audible. "Who's a better quarterback Brady, A Rogers, or Steve McNair"....he leand back in deep thought and all I could think was how passionate he was about him paying football in high school and I could hear that thru listening to him narrate his own audible.

This was such a fun book to read. I use the word fun because it felt as if I was there in every studio session, while he was writing his rhymes, and just in everyday situations. The main takeaway was conveyed early in the book - we should always believe in ourselves and our vision. There will come a time, no matter our profession, when someone with more experience will attempt to steer us in another direction but we know the right path in our gut. Follow your gut! Rakim did and that is why he is arguably one of the greatest lyricists of all time!

Part memoir, part deconstruction of the genius behind the creative process that produced many of the greatest rap songs of the late eighties and early nineties. Rakim, The God MC, grants us entry into his inner sanctum where he reveals his methodology that is founded on five pillars of creativity: Purpose, Inspiration, Spirituality, Consciousness and Energy. The seemingly innate ability to recall and rap along to many of Rakim’s songs should be proof that Nobody beats the R when it comes to lyrical construction & content; never to be relegated to the record crate of bygone music.

This is a phenomenal book that is an essential read for anyone trying to manifest creativity in their life regardless of art form or medium. Rakim's ability to reflect, explore, and synthesize the disparate parts of life to tell a story is incredible. This is not a how to book on creativity - it's a spiritual narrative that extends beyond the confines of rules and tips into that mysterious space we all have in our minds where ideas, passion, and actions come together. All creative people know that space, and maybe the only thing that helps us return there is knowing we can, and sharing our journeys. That is what this book about - how to transcend the liminal nature of your own medium and work to create something original.

It was a joy digging deeper into the mind of Rakim. One of the greatest to ever do it. Filling in the blanks behind the genius that is the GodMC. Growing up as his career ascended, this book is like riding along with him as his journey unfolded. Any fan knows he is a bit deeper than the average. This book not only shows Rakim's journey but illustrates how those that elevate the mindset study sources of knowledge and apply it to their life. Rakim puts you behind the pen and lets you ride through the lyrical assembly. Anyone that appreciates the golden era of hip-hop will enjoy this one.

Spectacular. Necessary for any hip-hop historian.

I really enjoyed this book! Rakim has been one of my favorite MC's for a long time. I had the pleasure of meeting him during his tour for this book release. He was so humble and personable. It was an amazing experience! It was so nice to find out how he wrote his rhymes. It was also great to hear the behind the scene stories of his life and career. This book was well written and it took me on a musical, mathematical journey that I didn't want to end. Kenya E Soul Sistahs Book Club

Rakim truly represents success in that when you read this book it will not only educate you but lift your spirit as you ride with each chapter into higher levels of understanding. You'll truly get to know Rakim and it's truly a great tool for those of you who wish to enter the music industry and so do performances. I recommend it for everyone!

The R..iconic...the God mc has written a book which reads like he rhymes..smooth and visceral...it enlightens and inspires creatives with his breakdown of his process as an artist..well written and powerful..a must have for any hip hop heads...artist.. or creatives.."In this journey of the journal im the journalist"(follow the leader) he takes you on one here indeed..

Great read from one of the greatest, if not best MCs of all time. I don't particularly listen to much hip/hop and rap but there's something about Rakim that sets him apart from the rest. A very special and intriguing individual he is. I can see why so many people love and admire him.

Awesome book. Very well written and receivable by all walks of life. This is a great insight dancing between hip hop history and life practices. Even if you are not the biggest fan of hip hop or Rakim, this book will have an impact on your life outlook.

A MUST read. Its inspirational, educational and it drew me in. It has so many life lessons. So many pointers...I grew after reading this book...I will write more and love what I write and believe in myself...more..

So interesting. Full of personal anecdotes, lessons in creativity, insights into the music business and a vivid snapshot into the rise of hip-hop. This book was much more than what I expected.

Amazing Read! Da GOD MC!

The book is real, raw, and righteous. Put in a way that only Rakim can put it. The fact he narrates his own truth leaves a lasting impression.

The God Rakim is not only the best rapper ever but also a honorable man who’s WORD IS BOND! Respect for life lord.

Amazing read. Peace to the god Rakim. A lot of dope history. Couldn't put it down. Finished it in about 5 sittings.

Excellent book on Rakim (the G.O.A.T.) and also the origin of hip hop before it became big around the U.S.

Great Book! Sheds plenty of light on Rakim’s upbringing, development and writing process for many of his hits.

Insha Allah Great Book I look Forward to more work Of Your’s 🙏🏾🙏🏾☝🏾

Amazing and very in insightful

Great read

Loved the stories

Awesome!

I have nothing but respect for Rakim as a Hip-Hop Legend. For that reason, I couldn't bring myself to give him a 1-star even though I felt that was what the book deserved. It reads as boring as his interviews have been when he promoted the book, but I just figured he was tired. I tried three times to go back and read this book and I fell asleep each time. Besides the poetry and lyrics of his songs that he quotes and talks about how they came about, I really wanted him to share more about himself personally. The whole tone of the book is monotone and one-layered. Basic. Nothing new, eventful, or interesting to share besides him wanting to play football instead of rap. Rakim as a rapper- a killer on the microphone and a lyrical genius, but you won't get much more in this book if you're looking for it.

The title of this book explains it all. In Sweat The Technique Rakim gives a very detailed, inspiring and thought provoking look into his journey as the greatest lyricist EVER...Not the greatest lyricist today...or the greatest lyricist over the last decade...but the GREATEST LYRICIST OF ALL TIME! Rakim delivers this powerful book with the same intellectual storytelling skills that are displayed in his lyrics. With his signature laid back vibe, he blesses us with some very insightful moments, all while breaking down his approach to writing rhymes and gaining respect in the world of Hip-Hop. If you want to learn from the best, then look no further! Every lesson you need to become a dope MC is all in this book. Not only does STT contain very valuable advice for MC’s, but there is also valuable advice for creatives in general. Reading Rakim’s lessons is like sitting in a classroom at a top university, while the professor gives a lecture on the secret to his success. He takes the reader to school. A memoir that reads like a how to become a dope MC handbook, Sweat The Technique is broken into 5 Parts: 1. Purpose 2. Inspiration 3. Spirituality 4. Consciousness 5. Energy Each Part begins with the lyrics to a Rakim song that relates to that topic of the book. Next, he gives the story behind that song. Finally, he follows the backstory with multiple chapters. I enjoyed reading how Eric B and Rakim actually came together. They were not friends, nor did they come from the same neighborhood. Yet, they were brought together by a mutual friend to create one of the greatest hip-hop duos of all time. Rakim also shares personal moments about his closest relationships. One relationship in particular that stands out to me is the loving relationship he shared with his parents, particularly his father. With all the love and support he received from his musical family it’s no wonder Rakim became the G.O.A.T. Sweat The Technique is a lesson in hip-hop history. It’s a book that every fan of hip-hip should have on his or her bookshelf.

This book was very insightful and Rakim gave me a lot of gems through this whole book! Thank you for taking time to write this book!

Purchased this for my hubby... He love it 😉

Book came great!

Another true legend indeed

Me encanta, todo en excelente estado

My friend absolutely loved it

The book is very well written. It is a must for true connoisseurs of not just rap, but hip hop.

Excellent Read. I’m enjoying this book.

One of the greatest lyricists of all time showing and proving why he is deserving of the title God emcee. A fascinating tale of his life story including his personal writing patterns, and tips for rocking the crowd.

This is an amazing book for hip hop lover or any person interested in learning about music . This book explores the life and lyrics of the God MC Rakim.

Love the read, awesome trip to back from the beginning days and through his journey!

I really enjoyed reading this book, I love how he explains his writing techniques and I was intrigued the whole time I was reading it.

Great book!

Es súper bonito, texto está en inglés

Best book i’ve read till now by the god emcee himself

Rakim’s book is a must for hip hop heads. Not only is it his journey but his motivation. It deals with his rise, personal life and the golden age of hip hop. Mostly focused on his recording career and the thought he puts into his rhymes, it’s also a good reminder of 87 which was a great year for hip hop and what follows, how it all changed with the LA riots, Rodney King and the gangster rap that followed from NWA and others. It also takes the reader behind the pen and into Rakim’s mind and thought process when he’s writing and the story behind how he wrote and researched some of his lyrics. The hard work drips from the page as does his talent. There is a reason Rakim is known as the greatest MC and Sweat the Technique is a reminder why as well as an inspiring read full of a quest for self-knowledge, spirituality, meaning and greatness. Recommended.

Rakim is the greatest rapper of all time to read his story is enlightening. Bless the mic with the gods.

For anyone who grew up with Hip Hop during those golden years this is a must have. It's great to have an insight into Ra's mind and the book gives you a glimpse into those formative years. Although I've given this 4 stars I can't help but think I would of enjoyed the book more with maybe a few more personal stories of his interactions with his fellow peers / MC's & producers etc.

Great book revealing how the great man Rakim got to be where he is. This is really 2 books in one, interwoven through the story. The first book is all hip hop related, and the second is about Universal Consciousness, Mathematics, Sacred Geometry, Religion, Egypt etc etc. Very interesting stuff from an intelligent man.

Fantastic read, great to find out the history of the greatest lyrisict EVER! (In my opinion anyway) I’m not religious in any kind of way but interesting to read how his was a big part of his life and lyrics.

This is book simply "Thinking of a Master Plan..." you know the lyrical flow. Delivery accurate sharp and impressively on time. Yes yes Amazon two thumbs fresh. Robbe89

Lo he comprado para regalar y ha sido muy buena opción. La entrega rápido y sin problemas como siempre con Amazon.

Très bon achat merci

Buena edición, tapa dura, idioma: inglés. Rakim es un referente de la época dorada del rap americano. Artista super influyente para los mc's posteriores.

Words aren’t needed , if you know you know .

Imprescindible para los amantes del rap. Rakim supera las expectativas en todos los sentidos en este libro

Great artist great insight to his craft