Run-DMC Raising Hell 35

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Run-DMC's Raising Hell remains the turning point at which hip-hop crashed through mainstream barriers and never left. Anchored by the crossover smash "Walk This Way," the 1986 blockbuster still sounds like a revolution unfolding in real time. It has everything – hard-rock riffs, turntable scratching, itchy rhythms, hit singles – not the least of which are the trio's invigorating raps and inseparable chemistry

Up until Raising Hell, the rap juggernaut we know as Run-DMC was still in its building and breaking-down-doors phase. In 1986 that changed, and in a dramatic way. With their third long-player, the group had reached the mountaintop. It was the record that proved hip-hop wasn't a fad.

Raising Hell marked an important and significant new era for the group working with another innovator, Rick Rubin (and co-produced by Run's brother Russell Simmons), they began to fully transition not only their own sound but the sound of the entire genre. Less live playing – with some exceptions – and a slicker, tighter sonic attack. Musical aesthetics aside, though, at their core they stayed true to the essence of hip-hop: two turntables and a microphone (or two).

It's impossible to talk about the album without its worldwide smash, Walk This Way, which hit #4 on the Billboard pop charts and saw the group digging in the rock crates to summon Aerosmith in the flesh, combining Steven Tyler and Joe Perry's musicianship with the group's own take on the 70's classic. The music video cemented Run-DMC as legit MTV idols, and both groups rode its wave to new heights.

Beyond Walk This Way, the platter is full to the hilt with undeniable classic singles: You Be Illin; It's Tricky; Peter Piper and the fashion-world shifting My Adidas. Each song was new proof that Run-DMC's sound was indeed new, but still familiar, and full of the energy, charisma, and innovation that drew fans to their first two LPs. Aside from the singles, the reason the album stands up so well is the fact that there is virtually no filler. 

Besides the triple platinum status the album achieved, it was more than just a pop smash. It signaled a new era for rap music, and it was the no-turning-back point for the entire genre. This was the beginning of what we now call the Golden Era, and it still sounds as fresh today as it did 35 years ago. Collectionzz is honored to commemorate the 35th anniversary of Raising Hell with limited edition art by Ken Taylor, who said "I grew up listening to Run-DMC so for me this was both a lot of fun and a great honour!" We agree.

Run-DMC Raising Hell 35 - $85.00
Artist: Ken Taylor
Size: 18" x 24"
Edition Size: 235
Multi Color Screenprint
Hand Numbered
Holographic sticker on back of print for authenticity