Bands & artists like Run-DMC

If you like Run-DMC, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to Run-DMC? Start with our listening guide.

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop rap rock

Artists to try next

Beastie Boys

Guide

Their fusion of rap and rock elements, along with energetic vocal delivery, parallels Run-DMC's hard-hitting style.

alternative hip-hop hardcore punk hip-hop

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To the 5 Boroughs

Play

Public Enemy

Guide

Known for their politically charged lyrics and aggressive beats, they share a similar intensity and groove.

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop political hip-hop

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Revolverlution

Play

LL Cool J

Guide

His blend of smooth lyrical flow with hard-hitting beats resonates well with the assertive style of Run-DMC.

hip-hop

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Phenomenon

Play

Naughty by Nature

Guide

With catchy hooks and a strong rhythmic presence, their sound aligns closely with the infectious momentum found in Run-DMC's music.

East Coast hip-hop hip-hop

Start here

Naughty by Nature

Play

Salt-N-Pepa

Guide

Their dynamic vocal interplay and incorporation of hip-hop with pop elements echo the engaging energy of Run-DMC.

hip-hop

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Blacks' Magic

Play

Cypress Hill

Guide

Combining rap with rock influences and a distinctive vocal style, they create a compelling sound akin to Run-DMC.

Latin hip-hop West Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop

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Till Death Do Us Part

Play

KRS-One

Guide

His powerful delivery and socially conscious lyrics paired with strong beats reflect the same assertive qualities found in Run-DMC.

East Coast hip-hop boom bap conscious hip-hop

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Strickly for da Breakdancers & Emceez

Play

A Tribe Called Quest

Guide

Their innovative blend of jazz samples with hip-hop rhythms creates a unique yet complementary sound to Run-DMC's approach.

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop hip-hop

Start here

Midnight Marauders

Play

Common questions

Who sounds like Run-DMC?

Artists similar to Run-DMC include Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, LL Cool J and Naughty by Nature. Each shares elements of Run-DMC's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Run-DMC?

Run-DMC is primarily known for hardcore hip-hop, East Coast hip-hop and rap rock. The relentless groove drives forward with sharp beats and assertive vocal exchanges that command attention while creating an infectious momentum.

Where should I start if I like Run-DMC?

If you enjoy Run-DMC, start with Beastie Boys — their album "To the 5 Boroughs" is a great entry point. Their fusion of rap and rock elements, along with energetic vocal delivery, parallels Run-DMC's hard-hitting style.