On this day in 1988, Eric B. & Rakim dropped their critically acclaimed sophomore album Follow the Leader, proving to the world that Paid in Full was only the beginning.
Coming off the seismic impact of their debut, the Long Island duo returned with a more refined and razor-sharp body of work that solidified their place as pioneers of lyrical technique and production finesse. Rakim’s pen game reached new heights with his measured cadence, dense wordplay, and philosophical introspection, while Eric B. crafted cinematic soundscapes that gave the album a futuristic, almost otherworldly feel for its time.
Follow the Leader didn’t just match the bar they set; it raised it. The title track and “Microphone Fiend” are now etched in Hip Hop’s DNA, both becoming generational anthems. The album moved 500,000 units within its first year, earning a gold plaque and peaking at No. 22 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart—no small feat in an era where Hip Hop still had to fight for mainstream visibility.
More than just chart positions, the album earned widespread respect from critics and heads alike for its consistency and cohesiveness, something Paid in Full lacked in comparison. Many fans argue this is the duo’s most complete project, showing real artistic evolution while keeping their streetwise, cerebral edge intact.
While Follow the Leader might not have sold as many records as their debut, it helped cement Eric B. & Rakim’s legendary status and ensured their influence would span decades. This album isn’t just Golden Era Hip Hop; it’s required listening for anyone who wants to understand the DNA of the culture.
Salute to Eric B. & Rakim on the 36th anniversary of this timeless classic.