Run the Jewels

Run the Jewels

Run the Jewels is an American hip-hop duo composed of emcee and producer El-P and emcee Killer Mike. Their musical partnership began in 2012 when El-P produced Killer Mike's critically acclaimed album, R.A.P. Music. The following week, Killer Mike featured on El-P's track "Tougher Colder Killer" from his album Cancer 4 Cure. This collaboration garnered significant attention from both critics and fans globally, leading to their successful "Into The Wild" tour in 2012.

Formation and Debut Album

In 2013, driven by fan demand and their own creative synergy, El-P and Killer Mike officially formed Run the Jewels. They released their self-titled debut album, Run the Jewels, on June 26, 2013, through Fool's Gold Records. The album was met with widespread critical acclaim for its uncompromisingly raw and forward-thinking hip-hop sound.

Subsequent Releases and Remix Projects

Their second album, Run the Jewels 2, was announced in August 2014 and released on October 24, 2014, via Mass Appeal Records. Alongside the album, they announced a traditional remix album, which was released through Fool's Gold Records in 2015. Additionally, they released the unique remix project Meow the Jewels, featuring guest production from artists like Prince Paul, The Alchemist, Just Blaze, and Dan the Automator, incorporating "cat sounds" into the production.

Run the Jewels 3 and Media Impact

Run the Jewels 3 was digitally released on December 24, 2016, several weeks ahead of its planned January 13, 2017, release date. The physical release followed on January 13, 2017, in the United States and January 20, 2017, internationally. The album gained significant mainstream exposure when the track "Legend Has It" was featured in the teaser trailer for Marvel's Black Panther, which garnered immense viewership. Multiple Run the Jewels tracks were also featured in the 2017 film Baby Driver, which included a cameo by Killer Mike. In September 2017, they released "Mean Demeanor," a track created for the video game FIFA 18.

Collaborations and RTJ4

In March 2018, Adult Swim released a crossover music video for "Oh Mama," a remix from Run the Jewels 3, featuring elements from the show Rick and Morty. This preceded Run the Jewels headlining the 2018 Adult Swim Festival. In December 2019, "Legend Has It" was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. Their fourth studio album, RTJ4, was released on June 3, 2020, two days earlier than scheduled, amid widespread protests concerning police brutality. The album received extensive critical acclaim, earning an average score of 89 on Metacritic.