D owns 200 pairs of his famous black frame glasses. The better to see what’s going on in the world.
Million records sold worldwide. The True Kings of Hip Hop.
RUN-DMC is founded by Joseph “Run” Simmons, Darryl “D.M.C.” McDaniels and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell
Rev Run makes it official and is ordained as a Reverend Priest in Zoe Ministries.
Jam Master Jay founds the Scratch DJ Academy in Manhattan to “provide unparalleled education and access to the art form of the DJ and producer.”
Run DMC was the first Rap group to have an album certified Gold with their self-titled album in 1984.
Bill Adler publishes “Tougher Than Leather: The Rise of Run DMC.”
Jam Master Jay establishes JMJ Records, which found success with the band Onyx.
JMJ was listed #10 on Spin’s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time
Gotham Press publishes Rev Run’s book, “Take Back Your Family: A Challenge to America’s Parents.”
JMJ discovers the turntable at age 13. By age 14 he is spinning for live crowds at block parties.
“King of Rock” is released and certified Gold. By early 1997 it has been certified Platinum.
Run DMC was honored at the first VH1 Hip Hop Honors, along with 2Pac and The Sugarhill Gang.
Run DMC was the first Rap act to appear on MTV, with the video for “Rock Box.”
“Raising Hell,” Run DMC’s most successful album, sold more than 3 million copies in the first year.
Run DMC was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the 24th annual dinner.
In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked Run DMC #48 of the “100 Greatest Artists.”
Run DMC was the only Rap group to perform at Live Aid in 1985.
Run DMC was named “The Greatest Hip Hop Artist of All Time” by VH1.
“Walk This Way,” by Run DMC with Stephen Tyler & Joe Perry of Aerosmith, hits singles charts, peaking at #4. It is the rock-rap crossover single of all time.
Run DMC hit the scene with their debut 12-inch single for “It’s Like That,” with “Sucker MCs” as the B-side.
“Raising Hell,” Run DMC’s third album, hits store shelves. One month later it is certified Platinum with 1 million copies sold.
Run DMC’s fourth album, “Tougher Than Leather,” hits store shelves.
Run DMC welcomes the new decade with a new album, their 5th, titled “Back From Hell.”
Run DMC’s sixth album, and their last for Profile Records, is released. “Down with the King” and its title track send the album to Gold.
After almost 8 years away, Run DMC resurfaces with their seventh album, “Crown Royal.”