Run DMC is slated to receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, so it seems that hard work and longevity do pay off. The hip-hop trio is iconic in the music industry, and their nod was announced just today by the Recording Academy.
The renowned trio, comprised of Joseph "Reverend Run," Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell, who recently died, and Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, had humble beginnings in Queens, New York and were the first rap group to go gold with their Run DMC debut album. They were also the first to be nominated for a Grammy according to Billboard.
Run DMC will be added to a list of notable winners, including Ruth Brown, Celia Cruz, Earth, Wind & Fire, Herbie Hancock, Jefferson Airplane and Linda Ronstadt. The trio will be applauded in an intimate ceremony along with the other nominees this year.
I just got a call from the Grammys!! They shocked me!! We're the first rappers to get this award!! Shocked! ... https://t.co/xHlzCPAgHz
— Rev Run (@RevRunWisdom) January 13, 2016
In a press release,, the Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow said, "Each year, the Academy has the distinct privilege of honoring those who have greatly contributed to our industry and cultural heritage, and this year we have a gifted and brilliant group of honorees. Their exceptional accomplishments, contributions, and artistry will continue to influence and inspire generations to come."
The timing of the Grammy nod is ironic since the producer who masterminded their Run DMC album, Larry Smith, just died in late December. He was also behind their second album, King of Rock. Smith worked as a session musician early on in his career, which is how he met Kurtis Blow, and led him to be the driving force behind the groundbreaking album, The Breaks.
