Eric B. & Rakim Fueled by Shock and Disbelief After Being Snubbed by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Eric B. & Rakim, the legendary Hip Hop duo, have been snubbed for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the second time. Despite this, they are not holding any grudges and have extended congratulations to the diverse group of artists who will be receiving the prestigious honor this year. The duo expressed their support for the likes of Mary J. Blige, A Tribe Called Quest, Cher, Dave Matthews Band, Foreigner, Peter Frampton, Kool & The Gang, and Ozzy Osbourne, among others.

In a joint statement to TMZ, Eric B. & Rakim commended the Rock Hall for its inclusivity, highlighting the diverse group of artists inducted this year. They emphasized their appreciation for the institution’s evolution and expressed optimism about their own future induction. The duo’s gracious response to the news contrasts with the disappointment they may have felt over missing out on the honor for the second time.

Tribe Called Quest, who had previously been nominated twice for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, have finally secured their spot on their third attempt. This success story brings hope to Eric B. & Rakim, who have now set their sights on future nominations and eventual induction into the esteemed institution.

Last year, after missing out on the nomination, longtime Tribe affiliate Consequence criticized the Rock Hall organizers, questioning the criteria for induction and highlighting the importance of recognizing the contributions of artists like A Tribe Called Quest. He emphasized the need to acknowledge the merit of the music and the impact of artists on Black music, rather than reducing their achievements to a mere popularity contest.

Mary J. Blige, another iconic artist who was nominated in 2021 but failed to secure induction on her first try, has also faced similar challenges. Like Eric B. & Rakim, she continues to be a trailblazer in the industry, with a long list of achievements and contributions that have shaped the landscape of music.

Eric B. and Rakim, known for their iconic status in the Hip Hop world, emerged during the golden age of the genre. Their debut album, Paid In Full, released in 1987, remains a classic example of excellence in both musical and stylistic aspects. Tracks like “I Ain’t No Joke,” “Eric B. For President,” and “Know The Ledge” are timeless pieces of work that have left a lasting impact on the Hip Hop community.

As Eric B. & Rakim continue to make their mark on the music industry, their resilience and dedication to their craft serve as an inspiration to aspiring artists and fans alike. While the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame may have overlooked them for now, their influence and contribution to the world of Hip Hop are undeniable, and their future induction into the Hall remains a matter of “when” rather than “if.”