Eric B. & Rakim Reunite at Long Island Music Hall of Fame
Rap legends Eric B. & Rakim took the stage together for the first time in almost two decades Tuesday, Nov. 16, in Huntington, N.Y., where they were inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.
The groundbreaking group, responsible for classic like 'Don't Sweat the Technique' and 'Follow the Leader,' had been in a longstanding feud, but their induction into the Long Island H.O.F., along with legendary rockers Dream Theater and Lou Reed, appeared to have quelled their animosity.
"I want to thank the committee for understanding what we do and giving us this prestigious award. We definitely appreciate it, said Rakim.
"You know what Rak, we never got a BET award, a Soul Train Award, a Grammy, but guess what? We got a Long Island Music Award!" Eric B. added, before the two embraced onstage.
"I just want to soak the whole moment in, enjoy it, and show the people that I'm definitely humbled," Rakim concluded, after their acceptance speech.
"This was the moment that all hip-hop fans and Gala attendees were waiting to see," added the Hall of Fame's Vice Chairman, Tom Needham. "Eric B. and Rakim are living legends who produced so many classic songs. We have all been waiting for this to happen. For rap fans, it is almost as if John Lennon and Paul McCartney had reunited after they broke up the Beatles."
While the comparison may not be completely accurate, Eric B. and Rakim, who have been feuding since the release of their fourth album, 'Don't Sweat the Technique,' in 1992, were long overdue for a reconciliation. Although they didn't perform together, Rakim did rock a solo set, ripping through songs like 'Eric B. Is President' and 'Juice (Know the Ledge).'
Other performers at the induction Gala included Long Islanders Joan Jett, Eddie Money, Laurie Anderson and more. Click here to watch coverage of the event, and here to learn more about the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.