William Michael Griffin, Jr. That is the real name of one of the all-time greatest rappers that the world has ever known. While I may have been busting rap tunes ever since the honeys been wearing Sasoons, I am no authority.  Rap aficionados, sound off in the comment section.

Rakim was born in Long Island today in 1968. He first came to fame as half of the duo Eric B. and Rakim. Songs like "Eric B is the President" got them heard and to their first record contract.

Eric B & Rakim released their first album, Follow the Leader, in 1987. While born in the early hip hop era, the album was a monster, selling over 500,000 copies while influencing an entire movement. The second album came in 1988 and solidified Rakim as one of the all time greats.