Run–D.M.C.
Biography
Run-D.M.C. was a pioneering American hip-hop group formed in Hollis, Queens, New York City, in 1983. The group's members were Joseph "Run" Simmons, Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels, and Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell. They are widely regarded as one of the most influential acts in the history of hip-hop culture and one of the most famous hip-hop acts of the 1980s. Along with acts like the Beastie Boys and LL Cool J, Run-D.M.C. pioneered new-school hip-hop music.
Formation and Early Years
Joseph Simmons was the younger brother of Russell Simmons, who co-founded the influential hip-hop management company and record label Def Jam. Russell encouraged his brother and his friend Darryl McDaniels to form a rap duo. After graduating from high school in 1982, they enlisted their friend Jason Mizell as their DJ, and he adopted the stage name Jam Master Jay. The group's 1983 debut single, "It's Like That" backed with "Sucker M.C.'s," was a departure from the funk and disco-influenced hip-hop of the time, featuring a sparse, aggressive sound.
Rise to Mainstream Success
Run-D.M.C.'s self-titled debut album, released in 1984, became the first hip-hop album to be certified Gold. Their 1985 follow-up, "King of Rock," was the first hip-hop album to go Platinum. The group's third album, "Raising Hell" (1986), became the first multi-platinum hip-hop record. This album featured a groundbreaking collaboration with rock band Aerosmith on a cover of their song "Walk This Way." The track and its music video became a massive international hit, breaking down barriers between rock and hip-hop and catapulting Run-D.M.C. into the mainstream. The song peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100, higher than Aerosmith's original version.
Musical Style and Influence
Run-D.M.C. is credited with changing the sound and aesthetic of hip-hop. Their style was characterized by a more aggressive, rock-influenced sound, with hard-hitting beats and overlapping, shouted vocals. They were among the first to highlight the importance of the relationship between the MC and the DJ. The group's fashion sense, which included black leather jackets, fedoras, and Adidas sneakers worn without laces, became iconic and influential in streetwear culture. Their song "My Adidas" led to a landmark endorsement deal with the athletic brand, the first of its kind for a hip-hop act.
Breaking Barriers
Run-D.M.C. achieved a number of significant firsts for a hip-hop group. They were the first to have their music videos aired on MTV, the first to appear on "American Bandstand," and the first to grace the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. They were also the first rap act to be nominated for a Grammy Award and the only hip-hop act to perform at the Live Aid benefit concert in 1985.
Later Years and Legacy
While their commercial success waned in the late 1980s and 1990s, Run-D.M.C. continued to record and perform for a dedicated fanbase. On October 30, 2002, Jam Master Jay was tragically shot and killed in his recording studio in Queens. Following his death, the remaining members announced their retirement from the group, stating they could not continue without him.
Run-D.M.C.'s influence on music and culture is undeniable. They are credited with paving the way for the golden age of hip-hop and for bringing the genre into the mainstream. In 2009, they became the second hip-hop group to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They also received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. Various outlets, including MTV and VH1, have named them the greatest hip-hop group of all time.
Discography
Studio Albums:
- Run-D.M.C. (1984)
- King of Rock (1985)
- Raising Hell (1986)
- Tougher Than Leather (1988)
- Back from Hell (1990)
- Down with the King (1993)
- Crown Royal (2001)