On this day, July 15, 1986, Run DMC accomplished something no other rap group had done, they reached Platinum status and in less than a year they were certified 3 times Platinum with their album “Raising Hell”.
RUN-DMC was an influential hip hop group that was formed in Queens, New York, in 1981. The group consisted of three members: Joseph “Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell. They were pioneers of the hip hop genre and played a crucial role in popularizing rap music in the 1980s.
RUN-DMC’s music was characterized by their distinctive style, which blended rap with rock and showcased powerful beats and catchy hooks. They became known for their unique fashion sense, often wearing Adidas tracksuits and matching sneakers, which also helped to establish their iconic image.
In the mid-1980s, RUN-DMC achieved mainstream success with hits like “It’s Like That” and “Walk This Way.” The latter was a groundbreaking collaboration with rock band Aerosmith, which introduced rap to a wider audience and helped bridge the gap between hip hop and rock music. This collaboration became a crossover hit and is often credited with revitalizing Aerosmith’s career.
The group continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, “Tougher Than Leather,” and “Down with the King.” Their music had a huge impact on the hip hop genre and influenced many artists who came after them.
Tragically, Jam Master Jay was shot and killed in 2002, bringing an end to the group. However, RUN-DMC’s contributions to hip hop and popular culture continue to be celebrated and acknowledged. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, becoming only the second rap act to receive this honor. Their influence on music and fashion still stands today, and their music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.