Rakim declares his new album, ‘The Re-Up’, plus releases his new single and video for “Not To Be Outlined” with Lazarus.
“Let’s be clear, Hip-Hop died once more / Half of my earnings might go to Rakim” –Kendrick Lamar on Clipse’s “Chains & Whips”
At present, hip-hop historical past is reborn, as Rakim, broadly considered The God MC and one of the crucial influential lyricists of all time, returns with the announcement of a brand new undertaking ‘The Re-Up’.
Setting the stage is the highly effective first single, “Not To Be Outlined”, that includes Detroit-based, international hip-hop artist Lazarus (who can be a board licensed doctor, and featured within the U.S. Library of Congress for being the primary artist to premiere a track from outer area—examine your googles), and produced by Dem Jointz (of Aftermath Leisure).
“Not To Be Outlined” is a monumental union of legacy and lyrical mastery.
A current recipient of the Peabody Medal (the primary ever rapper to obtain the distinguished award) which he graciously accepted as graduation speaker for the 2025 Peabody conservatory commencement ceremonies at Johns Hopkins College (the place Ra additionally obtained an honoree diploma), for an artist who has seemingly achieved all of it, “Not To Be Outlined” marks a primary in Rakim’s storied profession, because it’s the primary time he has labored with a Detroit emcee.
Collectively, Rakim and Lazarus bridge generations and cultures, delivering a bar-heavy anthem that defies tendencies and reaffirms hip-hop’s timeless essence.
“You may’t put me in no field, I’m not to be outlined.”
Some artists don’t match the mildew, they break it. “Not To Be Outlined” is a press release piece. A manifesto.
The refrain alone captures the mission behind the monitor: to interrupt boundaries and as at all times, central to Rakim, push the tradition ahead.
Rakim’s signature knowledge and laser-sharp cadence mesh seamlessly with Lazarus’ Detroit grit, international perspective, and surgical lyricism.
Backed by Dem Jointz’s cinematic manufacturing, “Not To Be Outlined” stands as a daring manifesto in an period of disposable singles, proving that true hip-hop by no means dies.
‘The Re‑Up’, that includes “Not To Be Outlined”, and a model new Rakim solo-single, I’m Good”, produced fully by Massive Ghost will likely be launched on 8.29.2025 throughout all digital streaming platforms, with bodily editions—together with vinyl, CDs, and cassettes—obtainable now at 1332Records.com.
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Now you can buy, stream, add, and favourite Rakim’s “Not To Be Outlined” monitor at your most popular DSP
