Throughout their career, Run-DMC have been widely accepted as one of the most iconic hip-hop groups in history, with the group consistently staying at the forefront of the scene. It’s only fitting, then, that they will be receiving a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at next month’s ceremony.
Paving the way for, well, the entirety of hip-hop, they were the first hip-hop group to ever see an album go gold, with the release of their self-titled debut in 1984, and were the first rap group to ever be nominated for a Grammy. They were also the first rap group to earn platinum and multi-platinum records, the first to have a video air on MTV, the first to grace the cover of Rolling Stone, and more. This marks their first ever Grammy award.
Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy, made a statement regarding the award, stating that, “each year, The Academy has the distinct privilege of honouring those who have greatly contributed to our industry and cultural heritage, and this year we have a gifted and brilliant group of honourees. Their exceptional accomplishments, contributions, and artistry will continue to influence and inspire generations to come.” While Run-D.M.C absolutely meet all of the requirements above, this will be the first Grammy award they’ve won. Their last shot at a win was in 1986, when the trio was the first rap collective to be nominated for Best R&B Vocal Performance, as the rap category was yet to be formed.
Joseph “Reverund Run” Simmons (who formed Run-D.M.C in 1982 along with Darryl “DMC” Mcdaniels and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell), tweeted his pride at winning the award.
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
The Recording Academy will also be giving honorary awards to Celia Cruz, Earth Wind & Fire, John Cage, Ruth Brown, Jefferson Airplane, Herbie Hancock, and Linda Ronstadt.
The 58th Annual GRAMMY Awards will air on Sunday, Feb 15th.