Videos by According2HipHop
Hip-hop artist Mac recently reflected on the powerful influence that legendary MC Rakim had on his life—both in music and in the classroom.
According to Mac, Rakim’s intricate lyricism pushed him to become more serious about his education at a young age. The rapper revealed that listening closely to Rakim’s songs motivated him to improve academically so he could fully grasp the deeper meanings behind the lyrics.
“I became a straight-A student because, listening to Rakim’s songs, I wanted to understand what he was talking about,” Mac explained. “And he’s who I patterned my writing style after.”
Rakim, widely regarded as one of the most influential lyricists in hip-hop history, is known for elevating the art of rap writing with complex rhyme schemes, layered metaphors, and intellectual themes. For artists like Mac, his impact extended far beyond the booth—serving as inspiration for both creative expression and personal development.
Mac’s comments highlight how hip-hop legends like Rakim have shaped generations of artists, proving that the culture’s influence can reach well beyond music and into education, discipline, and self-growth.
Mac explains how Rakim inspired him not only as a rapper, but even earlier in the classroom 🎒
— In The Bayou With Tyrann Mathieu (@InTheBayouPod) March 10, 2026
“I became a straight-A student because, listening to Rakim’s songs, I wanted to understand what he was talking about… and he’s who I patterned my writing style after.” pic.twitter.com/jfxuSSrzzr
