Run-D.M.C. founding member Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons joins TODAY to talk about “Kings from Queens: The Run-D.M.C. Story,” a new series that chronicles the legendary group’s 40-year rap journey. Rev also opens up about the tragic murder of Jam Master Jay, performing in Yankee Stadium’s Hip-Hop 50 Concert and more.
Rev Run, also known as Joseph Simmons, is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Joseph Simmons was born on November 14, 1964, in Queens, New York City. He is the younger brother of hip-hop legend Russell Simmons. Rev Run is a founding member of the influential hip-hop group Run-D.M.C., which formed in the early 1980s. The group achieved significant commercial success and is credited with helping to popularize hip-hop music and culture. As part of Run-D.M.C., Rev Run released several hit albums, including their self-titled debut album, “King of Rock,” and “Raising Hell,” which featured the iconic track “Walk This Way” with Aerosmith.
Run-D.M.C. was the first rap group to earn a gold record, the first to earn a platinum record, and the first to be nominated for a Grammy Award. Alongside his music career, Rev Run has ventured into entrepreneurship, including apparel lines and other business ventures. Rev Run and his family starred in the reality television show “Run’s House,” which aired on MTV from 2005 to 2009. The show provided an inside look into the life of Rev Run, his wife Justine, and their children.
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Craig Melvin, Dylan Dreyer, Rev Run, Al Roker and Sheinelle Jones
(Photos by: Nathan Congleton/NBC)
