THIS DAY IN HIP-HOP... RAKIM - THE 18TH LETTER

On this day in Hip-Hop history, Rakim released his debut solo album The 18th Letter.

On this day in 1997, Rakim released his debut solo album The 18th Letter on Universal.  The album featured production from DJ Premier, Clark Kent, Father Shaheed of the Poor Righteous Teachers, and Pete Rock.

The 18th Letter spawned the singles "It's Been a Long Time," and "Guess Who's Back." The highly anticipated album debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200. It was certified gold by the RIAA.

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Also on this day...

1997 - Jay Z released his second studio album In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 on Roc-A-Fella.

1997 - Mystikal released his second studio album Unpredictable on No Limit.

1998 - Artisan Entertainment Pictures' Belly was released in US theaters.

2008 - Q-Tip released his second studio album The Renaissance on Universal.