Run DMC and Aerosmith - 'Walk This Way'

About

The collaboration between Run-DMC and Aerosmith on "Walk This Way" marked a pivotal moment in music history. Recorded in 1986, this iconic song brought together two vastly different genres: hip-hop and rock. Run-DMC, consisting of Joseph Simmons, Darryl McDaniels, and Jason Mizell, was a rising force in hip-hop, while Aerosmith, with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, was a legendary rock band. The idea to merge these styles came from producer Rick Rubin, who sought to create a "white rock song that can be turned into a rap song." This collaboration not only bridged genre gaps but also revitalized Aerosmith's career and propelled Run-DMC into mainstream success. The song's music video, featuring both bands performing together, became a staple on MTV. "Walk This Way" peaked at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Run-DMC's biggest hit and one of the first hip-hop singles to reach the top five. The song's impact was profound, paving the way for future genre-bending collaborations and cementing its place as a landmark in American music.