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Rakim's "The Seventh Seal" Debuts at #3 on Billboard Rap Albums Chart

^{Published on 2009-12-02 14:15:40 - Market Wire}
 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwire - December 2, 2009) - [ SMC Recordings ] (PINKSHEETS: [ SMCE ]), the independent record label headquartered in the Bay Area, is celebrating more than the holidays with the success of their latest project by legendary rapper [ Rakim ]. His highly anticipated album, "The Seventh Seal," charged out the gate and straight into the #3 position on Billboard's Rap Albums Chart, just behind 50 Cent and Jay-Z. Moreover, the momentum does not stop there; Rakim also ranked #5 on Billboard's Independent Albums Chart and #9 on the R&B/ Hip-Hop Albums Chart.

Experiencing a surge in digital sales, "The Seventh Seal" opened on the iTunes Hot Rap Albums chart at the #2 position above such noteworthy releases from Jay-Z and Eminem. Currently, iTunes is the number one retailer for this project with digital sales making up an astounding 28 percent of overall sales and anticipated to increase over the coming weeks as Rakim prepares to launch the second leg of his national tour. "We identified early on that digital retail, mainly iTunes, would be the leader on this project and with them, devised a great campaign that truly covered the gamut of Rakim's fans," said co-founder Will Bronson. "'The Seventh Seal' marks the second album we've released where iTunes was our #1 retailer."

Rakim's legacy as one of "The Greatest Rappers of All Time," according to several sources, has ensured the success of his current album. A strong sales history and iconic status among rap aficionados and critics alike propelled Rakim back to the top despite a near decade-long absence. "Rakim proves that a good brand is always valuable," says CEO Ralph Tashjian. "He can still relate to his fans while creating new ones, securing his legacy for years to come. We are confident we made the best choice in partnering with Rakim and look forward to a successful future together."

Website: [ www.smcrecordings.com ]

About SMC Recordings:

Established in March of 2005, SMC Recordings is home to independent music and artists. Based in San Francisco, CA, the company's prized accomplishment is its unique philosophy of artist development, where artists are encouraged to participate with the label from inception through maintenance of their careers. This innovative structure has garnered industry veterans to join the company and aid in its growth. SMC is distributed by Fontana, the indie distribution subsidiary of Universal. It is SMC's humble regional beginnings and loyalty to their artists and their careers that will guarantee the company to always be on the precipice of creativity and expansion in the music game.