Run-D.M.C. was one of the most influencial and well-known acts in the history of hip-hop culture. More than any other hip-hop group, they are regarded as responsible for the sound and style of the music. They originated from Hollis, Queens, New York and were founded in 1981 by Joseph Simmons (Run), Darryl McDaniels (D.M.C), and Jason Mizell. In 1983 they released their first single, "It's Like That"/"Sucker M.C.'s," on Profile Records. The single sounded like no other rap at the time, with hard beats and daring lyrics, and they were one of the first band's to highlight the importance of the MC and DJ relationship.
They were the first group in the genre to have a gold album (Run-D.M.C., 1984) and be nominated for a Grammy Award. They were also the first to earn a platinum record (King of Rock, 1985). Run-D.M.C. was the only hip hop act to perform at Live Aid in 1985.
In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked them number 48 in their list of the greatest musical artists of all time and in 2007, Run-D.M.C. was named "The Greatest Hip Hop Group of All Time" by MTV.com. In 2009, Eminem inducted them into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In doing so, Run-D.M.C. became only the second hip hop group in history to be inducted, after Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
