Run-D.M.C. to receive Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

Jan 14, 2016

On Wednesday, the Recording Academy announced that Run-D.M.C. will be honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

The group consists of Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, Joseph “Reverend Run” Simmons and the late Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell and was the first rap group to have a gold album and also the first to win a Grammy.

“I just got a call from the Grammys!! They shocked me!!,” tweeted Rev Run after he got the news. “We’re the first rappers to get this award!! Shocked! Grateful!. God is good!!! I’m so honored to be a #GRAMMYs Lifetime Achievement Award recipient this year. Thank you to the Recording Academy!”

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

Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow had high praise for the group in his press release:

Each year, The Academy has the distinct privilege of honoring those who have greatly contributed to our industry and cultural heritage, and this year we have a gifted and brilliant group of honorees. Their exceptional accomplishments, contributions, and artistry will continue to influence and inspire generations to come.

With this award, Run-D.M.C. will be joining the ranks of music legends like Earth, Wind & Fire, Ruth Brown, Herbie Hancock, the Bee Gees and the Beatles, among others.