Run-D.M.C.

The Profile

Run-D.M.C. is an American hip hop group from Hollis, Queens, formed in 1983 by Joseph "Run" Simmons, Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels and Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell.

Credited with helping launch the New School of hip-hop and rap-rock crossover; collaborated with Aerosmith on "Walk This Way" (the video was a major MTV milestone); Raising Hell was produced in part by Rick Rubin (and Jam Master Jay contributed production). They popularized hip-hop fashion (e.g., "My Adidas").

DeBaser reviews present Run-D.M.C. as a foundational hip-hop group whose early records (notably Run-D.M.C. and Raising Hell) helped launch the New School and rap-rock crossover. Reviewers credit them with changing hip-hop's sound, style, and cultural reach. Raising Hell is highlighted for mainstream breakthrough and the MTV-aired "Walk This Way."