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Back to Paid in Full 25-Year Anniversary

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Lyrics: "As I memorize, advertise, like a poet/ Keep you going when I'm flowing, smooth enough, you know it/ But rough that's why the moral of my story I tell 'em, B/ Nobody beats the R, check out my melody"

Song: "My Melody"

A true example of hip-hop's braggadocio that's echoed throughout its more than 30-year existence. Rakim describes his style to a T in this line. Yes, his rhymes move like poetry -- deep, complex, yet to the point. But the flow rests on a rugged soundbed, striking a perfect balance of smooth and street -- something most rappers strive to achieve (and many rarely do). He closes the line reminding everyone that he's the best and to peep his melody to prove it. When Rakim talks, you listen.