My Melody
Eric B.; Rakim Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm lettin' knowledge be born, and my name's the R
A-K-I-M, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list
That's what I'm sayin', I drop science like a scientist
My melody's in a code, the very next episode
Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode
I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder
The listener's system is kickin' like solar
As I memorize, advertise, like a poet
Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough
That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be
Nobody beats the R, check out my melody

(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)

So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen
One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream
I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it
Let my melody play, then a record suggest it
I'm droppin' bombs, but I stay peace and calm
Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm
And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke
Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke
So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait
I won't push, I won't beat around the bush

I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to
You might try but you can't get close to
Because I'm number one, competition is none
I'm measured with the heat that's made by sun
'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall
Or just writin' my name in graffiti on the wall
You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me
So now a contest is what you owe me
Pull out your money, pull out your cut
Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up

My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra
Switch it around, it still comes out R
So easily will I E-M-C-E-E
My repetition of words is check out my melody
Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice
And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice
I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak-
Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit
In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone
I take this more serious than just a poem
Rock from party to party, backyard to yard
I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the Gods

(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)

The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp
I can swing off anything even a string of a harp
Just turn it on and start rockin', mine, no introduction
'Til I finish droppin' science, no interruption
When I approach I exercise like a coach
Usin' a melody and add numerous of notes
So when the mic and the R-A-K-I-M
It's a task, like a match I will strike again
Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped
Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except
I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter
A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder

(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check out my melody)
(Check)
(Check out my-)
(Check out my melody)

I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor
Melody arranger, poet, et cetera
Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus
I am the man they call the microphonist
With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken
Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin'
I came to express the rap I manifest
Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest
MC's that wanna be best, they're gonna
Be dissed if they don't get from in front-a
All they can go get is me a glass of Moet
A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet

I take seven MC's put 'em in a line
And add seven more brothas who think they can rhyme
Well, it'll take seven more before I go for mine
Now that's twenty-one MC's ate up at the same time
Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin'
No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin'
No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why borrow?
This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow
My unusual style will confuse you a while
If I was water, I'd flow in the Nile
So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours
Just because of applause I have to pause
Right after tonight is when I prepare
To catch another sucka duck MC out there
'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe
And after this you'll call me your majesty
My melody

Yes it's my melody
Eric B. (check out my melody)

Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it
Eric B. made a cut and advertised it
My melody's created for MC's in the place
They try to listen 'cause I'm dissin' them so pick up your face
Shook off your neck 'cause you try to detect my pace
Now you're druggin', almost buggin' off my rhyme-like bass
The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin
Rough enough to break New York from Long Island
My wisdom is swift, no matter if
My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff
I'm genuine like leather, reclined to be clever
MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say, "Oh never"




So Eric B., cut it easily and
Check out my melody

Overall Meaning

In "My Melody" by Eric B. and Rakim, Rakim highlights his skills as a rapper and how he stands out from other rappers in the game. He announces himself as a knowledgeable and intellectual rapper with the ability to drop science like a scientist. He also refers to himself as a microphone fiend and presents himself as the best in the game. He uses a strong metaphor of the microphone being his instrument and the basis for his melody. He is confident in his abilities to rock any crowd and leaves his listeners with the statement, "Nobody beats the R, check out my melody". The overall message is that he is a master of his craft, and anyone who dares to challenge him will be left in awe of his abilities.


Through his lyrics, Rakim showcases his deep love and understanding of hip-hop culture. Throughout the song, he references various elements of hip-hop culture, such as graffiti and breakdancing, and how he incorporates these aspects into his rhymes. He also mentions his love for music and how he memorizes and advertises his rhymes like a poet. Rakim's ability to incorporate freestyle and poetic elements into traditional rap music is truly what makes him stand out as one of the greatest MCs of all time.


Line by Line Meaning

Turn up the bass, check out my melody, hand out a cigar
I'm about to drop some knowledge and showcase my skills as an MC.


I'm lettin' knowledge be born, and my name's the R
I'm sharing wisdom and my name is Rakim.


A-K-I-M, not like the rest of them, I'm not on a list
My name is unique and I don't conform to anyone else's standards.


That's what I'm sayin', I drop science like a scientist
I'm delivering deep, insightful lyrics comparable to a scientist sharing their findings.


My melody's in a code, the very next episode
My music contains hidden messages, and the next song will further explore my style.


Has the mic often distortin', ready to explode
I use the microphone aggressively, pushing its limits to create an explosive impact.


I keep the mic at Fahrenheit, freeze MC's to make 'em colder
When I grab the microphone, I deliver such powerful rhymes that other MCs pale in comparison.


The listener's system is kickin' like solar
My music energizes the audience, with their sound systems booming like solar power.


As I memorize, advertise, like a poet
I craft and promote my lyrics skillfully, similar to a poet showcasing their art.


Keep you goin' when I'm flowin', smooth enough, you know with the rough
My flow is captivating and seamless while maintaining a raw energy.


That's why the moral of my story I tell'll be
The main lesson I convey through my music is...


Nobody beats the R, check out my melody
No one can outmatch me, listen to my music to understand why.


So what, I'm a microphone fiend addicted soon as I seen
I have an intense passion for the microphone, always eager to showcase my skills.


One of these four MC's so they don't have to scream
I possess such talent that I can outshine four other MCs without them needing to put in much effort.


I couldn't wait to take the mic, flow into it to test it
I'm always excited to grab the microphone and test my abilities by freestyling.


Let my melody play, then a record suggest it
Once I start performing, the audience will recognize the quality of my music and recommend it to others.


I'm droppin' bombs, but I stay peace and calm
My rhymes are explosive, yet I maintain a calm and composed demeanor on the mic.


Any MC that disagree with me wave your arm
If any other MC disagrees with me, they can make their objections known.


And I'll break, when I'm through breakin' I'll leave you broke
I will dismantle anyone who challenges me, leaving them defeated.


Drop the mic when I'm finished and watch it smoke
Once I'm done with my performance, the microphone will metaphorically smoke due to the intensity of my delivery.


So stand back, you wanna rap? All of that can wait
I'm warning others to step aside if they want to try rapping because they're not ready yet.


I won't push, I won't beat around the bush
I won't force anyone into a rap battle or deceive them with false promises.


I wanna break upon those who are not supposed to
I want to prove my superiority to those who believe they are the rightful leaders.


You might try but you can't get close to
Others may attempt to challenge me, but they won't come close to surpassing my skills.


Because I'm number one, competition is none
I am the best, and there is no one who can rival me.


I'm measured with the heat that's made by the sun
My talent and impact are compared to the incredible heat generated by the sun.


'Cause I'm playin ball or bobbin' in the hall
Whether I'm engaging in sports or enjoying music, I excel in every field.


Or just writin' my name in graffiti on the wall
Even in my free time, I leave a lasting mark by creating graffiti and showcasing my artistry.


You shouldn't have told me you said you controlled me
If you hadn't challenged me and claimed to control my actions, you wouldn't have to face me now.


So now a contest is what you owe me
Since you provoked me, we must now engage in a competition to prove who is superior.


Pull out your money, pull out your cut
Prepare yourself, financially and mentally, for a significant loss.


Pull up a chair, and I'm a tear shit up
Get ready for an intense battle because I'm going to completely dominate the stage.


My name is Rakim Allah, and R and A stands for Ra
I introduce myself as Rakim Allah, and the initials R and A represent the word 'Ra,' symbolizing my divine presence.


Switch it around, it still comes out R
Even if you rearrange the letters in my name, it will still spell out 'R,' indicating my uniqueness and consistency.


So easily will I E-M-C-E-E
I effortlessly take on the role of an emcee, displaying my mastery of the craft.


My repetition of words is check out my melody
The core of my lyrics consists of a repeating and catchy phrase that defines the essence of my music.


Some bass and treble is moist, scratch in and cut in a voice
The combination of deep bass and high treble creates a captivating sound, enhanced by scratching and cutting techniques.


And when it's mine that's when the rhyme is always choice
When I take control of the microphone, my rhymes become impeccable and stand out from the rest.


I wouldn't a came and said my name and run same weak-
If I had known my opponents were so weak, I wouldn't have bothered to introduce myself or engage in battle.


Puttin' blurbs and slurs and words that don't fit
I refuse to use meaningless or ill-fitting words in my rhymes, maintaining a high standard of lyrical quality.


In a rhyme, why waste time on the microphone
I prioritize delivering meaningful and impactful rhymes, rather than wasting time with frivolous wordplay.


I take this more serious than just a poem
For me, this is much more than just poetry—it's a serious and dedicated craft.


Rock from party to party, backyard to yard
I perform at various venues, moving from one party to another and even entertaining crowds in residential neighborhoods.


I tear it up, y'all, and bless the mic for the Gods
I dominate every stage, impressing the audience and receiving praise as if I were blessing the microphone on behalf of the Gods.


The rhyme is rugged, at the same time sharp
My rhymes are rough and aggressive, yet they maintain a sharp and precise delivery.


I can swing off anything even a string of a harp
I possess such versatility and skill that I can effortlessly freestyle and adapt to any instrumental or musical style, even something as delicate as a harp.


Just turn it on and start rockin', mine, no introduction
Once the music starts playing, I immediately begin delivering my powerful and impactful rhymes without needing any formal introduction.


'Til I finish droppin' science, no interruption
I won't be interrupted until I complete my delivery of knowledge and insightful lyrics.


When I approach I exercise like a coach
When I step onto the stage, I display a level of skill and precision similar to that of a coach instructing their team.


Usin' a melody and add numerous of notes
I enhance my performance by incorporating a captivating melody and layering it with various additional elements.


So when the mic and the R-A-K-I-M
When the microphone is in my hands and my name is spelled out, it's a powerful combination.


It's a task, like a match I will strike again
My rhymes are demanding and powerful, akin to lighting a match and igniting a flame.


Rhymes are poetically kept and alphabetically stepped
My rhymes are meticulously crafted and organized in a poetic manner, with each line flowing smoothly into the next.


Put in a order to pursue with the momentum except
I arrange my rhymes in a strategic manner to maintain momentum and captivate the audience, with occasional surprises and deviations.


I say one rhyme out of order, a longer rhyme shorter
If I deviate from the expected order of my rhymes, it may result in a shorter rhyme or a change in rhythm.


A pause, but don't stop the tape recorder
I take brief pauses in my delivery, but I ensure that the music keeps playing and the recording continues.


I'm not a regular competitor, first rhyme editor
I'm not just an average competitor, I excel in editing and crafting my rhymes to perfection.


Melody arranger, poet, et cetera
In addition to being an exceptional rapper, I also possess skills in arranging melodies and writing poetry, among other talents.


Extra event, the grand finale-like bonus
I bring an extra level of excitement and entertainment to every performance, comparable to a grand finale or a special bonus.


I am the man they call the microphonist
I am recognized as the master of the microphone, with exceptional skill and talent in the world of rap.


With wisdom, which means wise words bein' spoken
I deliver my rhymes with wisdom and profound meaning, sharing wise words with the audience.


Too many at one time watch the mic start smokin'
My talent is so immense that the microphone can't handle the intensity, figuratively causing it to smoke.


I came to express the rap I manifest
I'm here to showcase my unique style of rap and express the creativity and skill I possess.


Stand in my way and I'll veto on the word's protest
If anyone tries to challenge or hinder my progress, I will overrule them and proceed with my powerful and impactful lyrics.


MC's that wanna be best, they're gonna
Other MCs who strive to be the best will...


Be dissed if they don't get from in front-a
Face severe criticism and disrespect if they don't step aside and acknowledge my superiority.


All they can go get is me a glass of Moet
The only thing they can do is fetch me a glass of Moet, signifying their subservience and inability to challenge me.


A hard time, sip your juice and watch a smooth poet
They can only sit back and watch in awe as I effortlessly deliver my smooth and poetic rhymes.


I take seven MC's put 'em in a line
I challenge and defeat seven other MCs, symbolizing their insignificance compared to me.


And add seven more brothas who think they can rhyme
On top of that, I conquer seven extra challengers who believe they have the skill to compete with me.


Well, it'll take seven more before I go for mine
Even after conquering fourteen opponents, I will still have seven more lined up before I face my ultimate rival.


Now that's twenty-one MC's ate up at the same time
In total, I will defeat twenty-one MCs simultaneously, solidifying my position as the ultimate champion.


Easy does it, do it easy, that's what I'm doin'
I make it look effortless because I am doing it with ease and without any pressure.


No fessin', no messin' around, no chewin'
I'm serious and focused, not wasting time messing around or engaging in unnecessary distractions.


No robbin', no buyin', bitin', why borrow?
I don't steal or imitate others' styles, nor do I waste time borrowing or buying their rhymes.


This slob'll stop tryin', fightin' to follow
In the face of my unmatched skill, other MCs will give up trying to imitate or follow in my footsteps.


My unusual style will confuse you a while
My unconventional and unique style of rap may confuse and surprise you for a moment.


If I was water, I'd flow in the Nile
My rhymes are as smooth and effortless as water flowing in the Nile River, showcasing my natural talent.


So many rhymes you won't have time to go for yours
My rapid and continuous delivery of rhymes will leave no room for others to attempt their own.


Just because of applause I have to pause
The crowd's overwhelming applause forces me to temporarily pause and acknowledge their appreciation.


Right after tonight is when I prepare
Once this performance is over, I will immediately start preparing for my next challenge or opportunity.


To catch another sucka duck MC out there
I am always on the lookout for other MCs who dare to challenge me and easily defeat them.


'Cause my strategy has to be tragedy, catastrophe
In order to maintain my dominant position, my strategies involve delivering devastating and catastrophic blows to my opponents.


And after this you'll call me your majesty
Once the battle is over, you will have no choice but to acknowledge me as your superior and refer to me as your majesty.


Marley Marl synthesized it, I memorize it
Marley Marl created the music, and I have memorized and perfected every aspect of it.


Eric B. made a cut and advertised it
Eric B. flawlessly executes a scratch and promotes the sound, drawing attention to his exceptional skills.


My melody's created for MC's in the place
My music is specifically crafted to captivate and impress other MCs in the vicinity.


They try to listen 'cause I'm dissin' them so pick up your face
Other MCs are eager to hear my lyrics because they know I will cleverly diss and challenge them, forcing them to confront their shortcomings.


Shook off your neck 'cause you try to detect my pace
You nervously strain your neck as you attempt to keep up with the rhythm and speed of my rap.


Now you're druggin', almost buggin' off my rhyme-like bass
My rhymes have such a powerful impact that they mesmerize and almost drive you to a state of confusion, similar to being under the influence of drugs.


The melody that I'm stylin', smooth as a violin
The musical backdrop I'm rapping over is as smooth and soothing as a violin, enhancing the overall quality of my performance.


Rough enough to break New York from Long Island
My rhymes are raw and intense enough to have a profound impact not only on New York City but even the neighboring Long Island.


My wisdom is swift, no matter if
My knowledge and insight are delivered with speed and precision, regardless of the circumstances.


My momentum is slow, MC's still stand stiff
Even with a slower pace, I manage to stun and impress other MCs, leaving them in awe and unable to respond.


I'm genuine like leather, reclined to be clever
I am authentic and original, allowing my cleverness and creativity to shine through in every performance.


MC, you'll beat the R, I'll say, 'Oh never'
No other MC can surpass or defeat me, and I will vehemently deny any claim that suggests otherwise.


So Eric B., cut it easily and
Eric B., flawlessly execute the scratching technique and...


Check out my melody
Allow the audience to experience and appreciate the quality of my music and lyrics.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Eric Barrier, William Griffin

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@slothbro2740

Diamonds are forever like family and loyalty
Or real rap songs like "C.R.E.A.M." or "My Melody"

@random6857

Rip guru :( ♥️

@bigbroyearseen9423

Rip Guru

@neoscapr7504

Rip Guru

@leanhoven

Know I had 2 one back

@alxrtv3159

Diamonds are forever like my infinite thought
Like respect in the Hood that cant be bought

17 More Replies...

@samakrosario5546

"I'll take 7 MCs and put them in a line, and add 7 more Brothers who think they can Rhyme, it'll take 7 more before I go for mine and thats 21 MCs ate up at the same time." Still one of the Best verses ever. Rakim was ahead of his time, hip hop fans didn't appreciate him as much when he first came out as much as they appreciate him now, his lyrics are just as dope now as they were back then.

@twstdreality

Did anyone notice that not only did Em shout out Rakim in Rap God, but he also referenced one of Rakim’s lines in "My Melody"

My Melody: "I take seven MC’s put ‘em in a line, and add seven more brothas who think they can rhyme" -Rakim

Rap God: "I’ll take seven kids from Columbine, put ‘em all in a line, add an AK-47, a revolver and a nine" -Eminem

Also maybe this is a coincidence, but since it’s Em, probably not. In the second part of both verses, after the first line, the verse "add seven” from My Melody and "add an AK-47" from Rap God both mention 7 which I didn’t notice before as well. The last word of both verses also rhyme together which probably isn’t a coincidence. It’s crazy to think how much layers Em’s verses have!

@mrmartywaring

The greatest four bars in hip-hop history to this day!

@Milkman-007

@@twstdrealityimtentional, was on im back

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