25 Historic Moments in Run-DMC’s Career
Before Jay Z, Kanye West, Drake and Kendrick Lamar, there was Run-DMC. Emerging in 1981, Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons, Darryl "DMC" McDaniels and Jam Master Jay formed a hip-hop trio in Hollis, Queens, that would eventually become one of hip-hop's pioneers and game changers.
From the moment we heard "Sucker M.C.'s" and "It's Like That" in 1983, fans were instantly hooked. Their approach to heavier beats and catchy hooks brought the idea of "rap rock" to the forefront in the 1980s, along with LL Cool J, Beastie Boys and Public Enemy. The trio released seven albums with their debut self-titled LP going gold and sophomore album, King of Rock, easily attaining platinum status.
Not only did they top the charts, but Run-DMC also made history. Not only were they the first hip-hop act to be nominated for a Grammy Award (though it was in a R&B category), but they were also the first rappers to perform both at 1985's Live Aid and play Madison Square Garden. They also were the first non-athletes to secure an endorsement deal with an athletic brand after proving that you can rock Adidas shell-toe sneakers off the basketball court. From their influences in style, culture and music as a whole, Run-DMC has a legacy that will always be remembered.
Run-DMC's will finally be saluted at the 2016 Grammy Awards, which takes place on Feb. 15. The influential rap trio will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for their accomplishments in music.
Run-DMC will be honored alongside Earth, Wind & Fire, Jefferson Airplane, Ruth Brown, Celia Cruz, Herbie Hancock and the late Linda Ronstadt.
In honor of Run-DMC, receiving their Lifetime Achievement Award, we are chronicling 25 of the biggest events in Run-DMC's indelible history.
So without further ado, here are 25 Historic Moments in Run-DMC's Career.