Run-D.M.C. "Raising Hell" (1986): Track by Track!

Run-D.M.C. "Raising Hell" (1986): Track by Track!

July 9, 2026 · 1h 27m · Season 7 · Episode 28

About this episode

The episode features a track-by-track breakdown of Run-D.M.C.'s landmark album 'Raising Hell' with guest David Wright.

Before hip-hop dominated the charts, Run-D.M.C. kicked down the door. With the help of visionary producer Rick Rubin, the trio created Raising Hell, a landmark album that blended rap and rock, broke barriers on MTV, and forever changed the sound of popular music. Jason and Dee are joined once again by 80s rap expert and author David Wright (aka DefDave) for a track-by-track breakdown of this groundbreaking 1986 classic. From the history-making collaboration on "Walk This Way" to unforgettable tracks like "My Adidas," "Peter Piper," and "It's Tricky," the crew explores the stories, production, lyrics, and cultural impact behind every song. How did Raising Hell help transform hip-hop from an emerging genre into a global phenomenon? Which tracks still hold up nearly 40 years later? And does this album deserve the title of the greatest rap record of the 1980s? Lace up your Adidas, turn the volume up, and join us for an encore look at one of the most influential albums in music history.

People in this episode

Hosts: Jason, Dee

Guest: David Wright

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Run-D.M.C., Rick Rubin

Books & works: Raising Hell, Walk This Way, My Adidas, Peter Piper, It's Tricky

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