Run-Dmc

The members of Run-DMC-Jason "Master Jay" Mizell, Joseph "Run" Simmons, and Darryl "DMC" McDaniels-are considered by many to be the most influential hip-hop artists of all time. Run-DMC's melding of rap with rock, stripped-down musical arrangements, edgy lyrics, and straight-off-the-street look transformed the sound and style of rap during the early 1980s. The contributions that this trio from Hollis, Queens, made to the evolution of rap ensure that their place in the history of hip-hop will remain forever secure.

Children's Literature

In April 1983, the hit single, "It's Like That" brought together the talents of Joseph Simmons, Darryl McDaniels, and Jason Mizell, better known to hip-hop fans as Run-DMC. Run-DMC greatly contributed to the musical art form during the development of rap. Among the many accolades the group received, Run-DMC was the first rap group with gold, platinum, and multiplatinum albums. The members of Run-DMC were the first rappers to be inducted into Sunset Boulevard's RockWalk in Hollywood. The journey was not always easy for Run-DMC's members; they had personal struggles. Unfortunately, tragedy struck with the fatal shooting of Jason Mizell. This was followed by the retirement of the group in 2002. In the book, readers will find that Chuck D provides a brief history by explaining the development of hip-hop and rap music. In the appendix, a discography lists the albums by the group and a chronology highlights Run-DMC's major events. There is a glossary and a bibliography, along with a list of additional books and web sites for more information. This book is part of the "Hip-Hop Stars" series. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung