Born on November 14, 1964, in Queens, New York, Joseph "Run" Simmons was one of the founding members of Run-D.M.C.
He started his music career as a DJ for his older brother, Russell Simmons, a well-known hip-hop producer.
Run later became an MC, shaping the group's aggressive yet rhythmic rap style.
After Run-D.M.C. disbanded in 2002, he shifted his focus to becoming a pastor and, in 2005, launched the reality TV show Run’s House, which showcased his family life.
About Run-D.M.C.
The Inspiration Behind
This Project
Run-D.M.C. was founded in 1982 in Queens, New York, by Jason Mizell (Jam Master Jay), Joseph Simmons (Run), and Darryl McDaniels (D.M.C.).
Their breakthrough came in 1983 with the album Run D.M.C., which had a major impact on hip-hop culture.
Their signature style—Adidas sneakers and gold chains—set trends worldwide.
In 1986, they became the first rap group to sign a major endorsement deal with Adidas. After the tragic murder of Jam Master Jay in 2002, the group officially disbanded.
Joseph Simmons (Run)
Run-D.M.C. are the legends who inspired us to start this project. Growing up with their music, we didn’t just hear beats – we felt a movement. Their energy, their style, and their fearless innovation shaped an entire generation, including us.
Scroll down to learn more about the legends who started it all.
Run D.M.C
STORY
Born on May 31, 1964, in Queens, Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels was the lyrical powerhouse of Run-D.M.C., known for his deep, commanding voice.
Originally, he wanted to be a DJ, but Run encouraged him to rap, which led to his legendary career.
He struggled with alcohol addiction and depression for years but later found recovery and dedicated himself to charity work.
In the 2000s, he discovered he was adopted, which inspired him to become an advocate for adoption rights and foster care awareness.
Darryl McDaniels (D.M.C.)
Jason Mizell (Jam Master Jay)
Born on January 21, 1965, Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell was the DJ of Run-D.M.C., celebrated for his innovative scratching techniques.
He played a crucial role in shaping the group’s sound, blending rock and hip-hop elements. After Run-D.M.C.’s success, he founded his own record label, helping up-and-coming artists in the industry.
On October 30, 2002, he was tragically shot and killed in his Queens studio, marking the official end of Run-D.M.C.
His murder remained unsolved for years, but in 2020, multiple suspects were finally indicted.
Run-D.M.C. isn’t just a rap group – they are hip-hop pioneers who revolutionized music, fashion, and culture.
For those of us who grew upin their era,their beats weren’t just songs, they were
the soundtrack of our lives.
