It’s never easy for rap groups at the Grammy awards, often having to play second fiddle to other genres with more general appeal.
The veteran rap group Run DMC are set to be honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the 2016 Grammy Awards to be held next month.
The group, made up of Rev Run, DMC and the late Jam Master Jay- played a crucial role in the establishment of rap as a force in the early days of its development. They were the first rap act to have an album certified gold in the USA, whilst 1986’s ‘Raising Hell’ was certified multi platinum.
Rev Run made the revelation with an excited tweet, as they are the first rap group to ever earn that honour. Other legends set to be honoured with the lifetime award at this year’s ceremony includes R&B veteran Ruth Brown, Latin legend Celia Cruz, popular funk band Earth, Wind & Fire, jazz icon Herbie Hancock, Jefferson Airplane and Linda Ronstadt.
A press release from the Recording Academy praised the 2016 line-up for the awards:
“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.”
The 58th Annual Grammy Awards will take place on February 15th, 2016 at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles- set to air on CBS.
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