The Rise of Run The Jewels: A Look at the Dynamic Rap Duo
If you’re a hip-hop fan, then you’ve likely heard of the rap group Run The Jewels. Comprised of MCs Killer Mike and El-P, the duo has significantly impacted the rap scene since they first emerged in 2013. With their hard-hitting beats, politically charged lyrics, and undeniable chemistry, the duo has become one of the most exciting and vital groups in rap today.
The Origins of Run The Jewels
Killer Mike, whose real name is Michael Render, is a rapper and activist from Atlanta, Georgia. He first gained recognition in the early 2000s as a member of the hip-hop collective Dungeon Family, which also included Outkast and Goodie Mob. In the years since he has released several solo albums and has become known for his socially conscious lyrics and powerful stage presence.
El-P, whose real name is Jaime Meline, is a rapper, producer, and record executive from Brooklyn, New York. He co-founded the underground hip-hop label Definitive Jux in the late 1990s and released several solo albums. El-P is known for his dense, experimental production style and politically charged lyrics.
Killer Mike and El-P first met in the early 2010s and quickly hit it off. They decided to collaborate on a project together, and in 2013 they released their first EP. The EP, titled “Run The Jewels,” was met with critical acclaim and established the duo as a force to be reckoned with in the rap world.
The Success of RTJ
Since the release of their first EP, RTJ has gone on to release four full-length albums. Each of these albums has received widespread critical acclaim and has solidified the duo’s place in the rap world.
One thing that sets Run The Jewels apart from other rap groups is their chemistry. Killer Mike and El-P have a natural rapport, and their performances together are electric. They play off each other perfectly, and their dynamic makes their music so engaging.
In addition to their chemistry, Run The Jewels are known for their hard-hitting beats and politically charged lyrics. Their music tackles issues such as police brutality, gentrification, and racial inequality, and they have also become known for their social activism.
The Future of RTJ
Run The Jewels has continued to go from strength to strength in recent years, and it’s clear that they have a bright future ahead of them. Their powerful lyrics and dynamic performances have earned them a devoted fan base, and they show no signs of slowing down.
In the coming years, it will be interesting to see what direction Run The Jewels takes with their music. Whatever they do, it’s sure to be worth paying attention to. Whether you’re a fan of rap, politics, or just great music in general, Run The Jewels is a group that should definitely be on your radar.
The RTJ Video Mixtape
I have been lucky enough to see RTJ perform multiple times over their career, and they never disappoint. They put on one of the best performances in hip-hop. El-P’s beats and Killer Mike’s lyrics bring an energy unseen in the landscape.
One night while doing a live stream, I mixed in RTJ and just kept going. Often music of one producer will blend well together. However, the complex melodies and boom-bap beats made the Run the Jewels mix unlike any other. Enjoy.
Track List:
0:00 Die Like a Rockstar by Danny Brown (being mixed out)
0:31 Oh My Darling Don’t Cry
3:52 Blackbuster Night, Pt. 1
6:10 Run the Jewels
10:42 Close Your Eyes (And Count To Fuck)
12:55 Get It
15:18 Lie, Cheat, Steal
18:23 ooh la la (feat. Greg Nice & DJ Premier)
21:27 Cover Girl by Bia (being mixed out)