It bring a tear to my eye to see native New York people give me my props because New York is stubborn and arrogant.

You ready? I have gold teeth, I have braids, I'm wearing Rick Owens moon boots, I have rips in my denim, a biker vest, I love artsy girls, my favourite artists are Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon. I'm obsessed with being different.

I don't like new cars; I'm into vintage cars - there's a Jaguar E-Type in the 'Goldie' video.

I would not consider myself to be a quote unquote real New York rapper. I don't even like New York rappers.

New York gave me hell for that 'Purple Swag,' man. They didn't respect me until 'Peso.'

So for me, fashion was about standing out as an individual - and it helped me get the attention that most people try to get with publicity stunts or by doing other crazy things. But I just let the attention come to me naturally, and I think some of that has to do with my fashion.

My real name's Rakim - my parents named me after the god MC himself.