“The next time someone’s teaching why don’t you get taught?” RUN DMC (It’s Like That)
New artists of any genre can learn some serious marketing lessons from RUN DMC. Here are 10 lessons from the Hollis, Queens trio:
10. Broke the rules: They dressed in street attire instead of flashy costumes or sweatshirts with their names ironed on like other rappers at the time.
9. Differentiation: Musically, they used Rock to differentiate themselves from the other groups. However, they didn’t try to dress or look like rockers. They didn’t try to be something they weren’t.
8. Unique: Their delivery was different. They didn’t sound like anyone else at the time.
7. Self-proclaimed: They dubbed themselves something totally unexpected- The King of Rock. And, they owned that.
6. Created a movement: They made their fans feel as though they were on a journey with them to spread this “new” thing. “My Adidas” is about more than a brand of sneaker. It’s about taking this particular style, culture, and vibe around the globe.
5. Made the rules: Their style, sound, image, and finesse set the stage for a new era of Hip Hop, with them at the helm.
4. Knew no boundaries: Their music wasn’t just for people that should like rap. This allowed them create their own audience, not just tap into the established rap base.
3. Consistency: They were consistent in their rock-themed sound; however, they grew and showed progression: “Rock Box,” “King of Rock,” “Raising Hell,” “Walk this Way.”
2. Branding: You knew the glasses, the derbies, Adidas, and the leather blazers as only RUN DMC.
1. Quality: The whole package known as RUN DMC was solid. At the time no one could rival them, they were the best.
Israel Vasquetelle
