The 18th Letter
Intro
Rakim
Lyrics & Rhyme Analysis
3
End
7
Internal
2
Multi
9
Slant
2
Chain
Rhyme Groups — hover to spotlight
[interviewer, possibly Harry Allen]
What are you giving them back?
[Rakim]
Umm, I think what I'm givin✦ them back man is umm...
what they been waitin✦ for yaknahmean? Umm...
SKILLS
Technical Breakdown
5.8
Multisyllabic Rhymes6.5
Complexity of rhyme schemes (data-driven)
Internal Rhymes8.5
Rhymes within a line (data-driven)
Wordplay / Double Entendres2.0
Clever language, metaphors, punchlines
Cadence / Rhythm6.5
Flow variation and timing (data-driven)
Vocabulary Complexity6.0
Range and depth of words used (data-driven)
Delivery / Breath Control5.0
Performance and control
Computed Score5.82
Production
— RakimBe the first to rate the production
Critic Analysis
RAPLEDGER BAROMETER™
The verse functions as a deliberate tonal introduction rather than a display of technical lyricism, prioritizing conversational authenticity over complex wordplay.
C
6.5
Multisyllabic
8.5
Internal Rhymes
6.5
Cadence / Flow
6
Vocabulary
2
Wordplay
5
Delivery
Conversational cadenceAnticipatory buildupDynamic pause
Rhyme Architecture: Non-rhyming conversational prose serving as a rhythmic setup for the following performance.
Verified Doubles & Entendres
"SKILLS"
① The literal musical and lyrical abilities the emcee possesses.② A meta-referential announcement that the following performance will showcase technical superiority.
Establishes a grounded, authentic persona
Effective use of silence to heighten anticipation
Naturalistic pacing that contrasts with the technical complexity that follows
Lack of traditional rhyme schemes
Absence of complex wordplay or metaphor
Short duration limits structural development