What Happened to Eric B? Where is He Now? Is He Still Alive?
by Rubaditsha
Updated Oct 11, 2023
What Happened to Eric B?
Rapper and actor Eric B., whose real name is Eric Barrier, has been released from a New Jersey jail after spending two weeks incarcerated due to a 17-year-old warrant. This warrant, dating back to 2002, was issued because he had failed to appear in court for a sentencing related to an earlier assault case for which he had pleaded guilty.
According to Barrier's attorney, his former lawyer had assured him that he did not need to appear in court. Eric B. is widely recognized as one half of the legendary hip-hop duo Eric B. & Rakim, celebrated as one of the greatest in the genre's history. More recently, he had a role in the CBS television show "Blue Bloods."
Where is Eric B Now?
Eric B, also known as Eric Barrier, is actively considering a move into New York City politics. Currently residing primarily in Henderson, Nevada, he has strong ties to New York, his place of birth and upbringing. Eric B's potential political aspirations include running for positions like public advocate, city councilmember, or assemblymember.
He is in the process of forming an exploratory team for his campaign. Despite spending some time in Nevada, Eric B plans to officially return to New York, likely Queens, and register to vote. His motivation stems from a desire to give back to the city that played a crucial role in his career.
Is Eric B Still Alive?
Eric B is alive and well. In 2006, the album "Paid in Full" by Eric B. & Rakim received a prestigious nomination for the title of the greatest hip-hop album of all time from MTV, underscoring its enduring influence in the genre. Beyond music, Eric B has ventured into the world of film with occasional appearances. Notably, he has also delved into the restaurant business, owning a number of establishments across the United States, showcasing his diverse entrepreneurial interests alongside his celebrated music career.
Who are Eric B and Rakim?
Eric B. & Rakim, the legendary American hip-hop duo, originated in Long Island, New York, in 1986. This iconic partnership consisted of DJ Eric B., known as Eric Barrier, and rapper Rakim, born as William Michael Griffin Jr. During what is often referred to as rap's golden age in the late 1980s, Eric B. & Rakim earned widespread acclaim as the preeminent DJ/MC duo in the hip-hop genre.
Their influence extended far beyond hip-hop, with AllMusic recognizing them as the unrivaled DJ/MC team during that era. NPR's Tom Terrell went even further, labeling them as the most influential DJ/MC combination in contemporary pop music. They hold a prominent place in the annals of hip-hop history, ranked fifth by About.com on its list of the greatest hip-hop duos of all time and also earning the fifth spot on Rolling Stone's compilation of the 20 greatest duos in music history.
Origin
Long Island, New York, U.S.
Genres
Hip hop, jazz rap, East Coast hip hop
Years Active
1986–1993, 2016–present
Labels
4th & B'way, Uni, MCA
Members
Eric B., Rakim
Eric B Age
As of 2023, He is 59 years old. Louis Eric Barrier, born on November 8, 1963, is a prominent American figure in the realm of hip-hop. He is a rapper, producer, and DJ renowned for his pivotal role in the golden age hip-hop duo, Eric B. & Rakim. Their album "Paid in Full" achieved monumental recognition, with MTV deeming it the greatest hip-hop album of all time in 2006.
The duo's impact on the music industry was further underscored when they received a nomination for induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.
In addition to his music career, Eric B. transitioned into the world of acting. Since 2019, he has been portraying the character of police officer Mike Gee in the television series "Blue Bloods." This multifaceted artist continues to make significant contributions to both the hip-hop scene and the entertainment industry at large.
Eric B Career
Eric B. embarked on his journey in the world of deejaying, initially teaming up with his younger brother and two friends at a roller rink. He drew inspiration from influential deejays like DJ Vernon, King Charles, and Grandmaster Flash, recalling fond memories of sneaking into events at night. In 1985, Eric B. became a DJ at New York's WBLS radio station, where he sought an artist to collaborate with.
This quest eventually led him to meet Rakim. Their collaboration resulted in their debut single "Eric B. Is President" in 1986, followed by the acclaimed album "Paid in Full" in 1987. Despite legal battles and a split in 1992, the duo reunited in 2016 for live performances and album remastering, rekindling their iconic partnership without plans for new music.
What Happened to Eric B and Rakim:FAQs
Eric B. is a prominent figure in hip-hop, known for his role as a DJ and producer in the influential duo Eric B. & Rakim.
Their debut single, "Eric B. Is President," was released in 1986, and their album "Paid in Full" followed in 1987.
"Paid in Full" is considered one of the greatest albums in hip-hop history, praised for its innovative production and sampling.
Eric B. refused to sign a release contract, fearing Rakim might leave him, leading to a prolonged legal dispute with their label, MCA.
They reconnected in 2016, began performing together again, and are remastering their albums, although they do not plan to release new music.