Jury selection for the trial of two men accused of killing Jam Master Jay will get underway on Monday.
According to ABC News, 59-year-old Ronald Washington and 40-year-old Karl Jordan are facing charges for the October 2002 murder. Jay, born Jason Mizell, and others were at Jay’s 24/7 recording studio in Queens when the two men entered at 7:30 p.m. with guns.
Jordan is said to have fired two shots close range at Jam Master Jay, one hitting him in the head and killing him.
Jodan and Washington were believed to be engaged in cocaine trafficking. Jordan was arrested in 2020 for attempting to sell drugs to an undercover officer. Washington was already in prison when charged.
Peacock has announced the release of a three-part hip-hop documentary series titled Kings From Queens: The RUN DMC Story. Produced by Believe Entertainment Group, the series delves into the influential journey of the iconic hip-hop pioneers RUN DMC.
Taking viewers back to the 1980s, the docuseries explores how Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell revolutionized the music scene, not only in Queens but globally.
Featuring exclusive interviews with RUN DMC and prominent figures in hip-hop such as Ice Cube, LL COOL J, Questlove, and more, the documentary unveils the untold story of the group. The narrative touches on their cultural impact, breaking racial barriers, and becoming international stars and fashion leaders in the ’80s.
“I am very happy that the world is going to see our great story,” said artist and executive producer, Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons. “So thankful for all that participated in helping us over the years. I started out as a young DJ Run and ended up impacting the world with my group RUN DMC. I am blessed to have been on this amazing journey.”
Artist and executive producer Darryl “DMC” McDaniels added, “This documentary series will reach, teach and educate people on the RUN DMC dynamic. I know people will see themselves in our journey and I am hopefully that the next 50 years of Hip Hop will be a movement of positive improvement and creativity, in the same way we changed music and the world.”
Kings From Queens: The RUN DMC Story is set to premiere on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with a runtime of 3 x 60 minutes. Directed by Kirk Fraser, the series is executive produced by Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and others, promising an in-depth look at the groundbreaking journey of the legendary rap group.
It’s been more than 20 years since Run DMC member Jam Master Jay was murdered in a New York recording studio. He was allegedly shot by two men who broke into his studio in October of 2002. It took quite a long time for any attempt at justice for the DJ through the legal system. Back in 2020, two men were indicted with the murder and accusations emerged of the whole affair being a drug deal gone wrong. In May of last year a third man was hit with charges for allegedly participating in the murder.
Now more than 21 years later we know when the first trials will get underway for those accused of playing a role in Jay’s murder. Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington were the first two men arrested and their trials are due to begin soon. According to TMZ, they’re currently in the jury selection phase with opening statements impending on January 29. The third man who was charged, Jay Bryant, isn’t expected to begin his trial until 2025. The first two both pleaded not guilty and a statement from Bryant’s lawyer indicates he will also do the same. “Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing. Proving it at trial is another matter,” the statement reads.
American musician and DJ Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell (1965 – 2002), of the American hip hop group Run-D.M.C, performs on stage during the 1985 Fresh Fest at the Providence Civic Center in Providence, Rhode Island in August 1985. (Photo by John Nordell/Getty Images)
Because of some of the more unique elements of the trial the prosecution is requesting a dual jury. It’s a rare move that they hope will help make the trial of all three men go by as smoothly as possible. They already filed a motion to get a dual jury. At this time it’s unclear if that’s how the trial is moving forward.
What do you think of the trial of Jam Master Jay’s murderers starting later this month? Do you think the men will be convicted more than 20 years after the murder originally took place? Let us know in the comment section below.
Darryl McDaniels, widely recognized as DMC or “The Devastating Mic Controller,” is a hip-hop legend. McDaniels has built an incredible fortune over the years as a member of Run DMC to his numerous ventures. In this article, we’ll delve into the sources of his wealth and how he has maintained his legendary status.
Darryl McDaniels Net Worth
McDaniels has an estimated net worth of $40 million as of 2024, according to Wealthy Gorilla.
Run-DMC’s Success: Pioneers of Hip-Hop
(Photo by Fotos International/Getty Images)
As one-third of the legendary group Run-DMC, alongside Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons and the late Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell, Darryl McDaniels made a significant impact on the world of hip-hop. Formed in 1981, Run-DMC is often credited as the pioneers of the genre. Their groundbreaking sound and style that blended rock with hip-hop opened the doors for the culture. The group achieved numerous chart-topping hits and multi-platinum albums, which played a crucial role in Darryl McDaniels’ financial success.
Beyond Music: Comic Books and Film
(Photo by Noam Galai/FilmMagic)
McDaniels’ interests and talents extend beyond the realm of music. As a lifelong comic book fan, he founded Darryl Makes Comics (DMC) in 2013, creating a platform for comic enthusiasts and fostering diversity within the industry. This venture has provided an additional source of income for McDaniels.
Darryl McDaniels’ Philanthropy
(Photo by Mike McGregor/Getty Images for Cantor Fitzgerald)
McDaniels has never shied away from giving back to his community. He co-founded the Felix Organization in 2006, a non-profit that provides opportunities and support for children in foster care. In addition, McDaniels’ advocacy for mental health awareness and substance abuse recovery has made him a respected figure in both the entertainment and social work spheres.
Brand Endorsements And Collaborations
(Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)
Over the years, McDaniels has endorsed and collaborated with various brands, adding to his wealth. As a member of Run-DMC, the group signed a groundbreaking partnership deal with Adidas in the 1980s. This deal proved to be mutually beneficial. This partnership, among others, has contributed to Darryl McDaniels’ substantial net worth.
Darryl McDaniels’ Continued Success
(Photo by Mark Von Holden/Variety via Getty Images)
Darryl McDaniels remains a relevant and influential figure in the entertainment industry. His music career has spanned over four decades, with continued success as a solo artist and member of Run-DMC. McDaniels is often invited to perform at festivals, concerts, and other events, all of which contribute to his ongoing income.
Conclusion/TLDR
Darryl McDaniels’ net worth of $40 million in 2024 is the result of his incredible talent, hard work, and groundbreaking career in hip-hop. As a member of Run-DMC, his involvement in the comic book industry, acting, and philanthropy, McDaniels has become a legend in his own right. With his enduring influence and contributions to the world of entertainment, it’s no surprise that Darryl McDaniels’ net worth continues to impress.
Legendary hip-hop group Run DMC member Darryl McDaniels recently revealed that they narrowly escaped being involved in the same car on the night Tupac Shakurwas shot. However, a last-minute wardrobe dilemma from Jam Master Jay ultimately saved the group.
Flashback To 1996
In a recent interview, Darryl McDaniels, known as DMC, shared the chilling details of how they were supposed to ride with Tupac and Suge Knight to the Mike Tyson fight afterparty. He began his recollection by stating:
“I remember the night ‘Pac died. We was hired by 662 to perform at the afterparty for the Tyson fight. This was when the Luxor was new. It was fly shit. So I’ll never forget, Suge Knight brought us there, paid for everything. We was hired for entertainment. So, we get a call, it’s Suge. This a funny Jay story. ‘Yo, me and ‘Pac coming to get y’all. You’re gonna ride to the fight with us.’ ‘Cause remember, who was in the BMW 750iL with them? Nobody was in the backseat. Me, Run and Jay was supposed to be in that backseat. He calls him up and says, “Yo, I’m coming to get y’all. We want y’all to ride to the fight with us.’”
Run DMC was almost in the car with Tupac the night he was shot and killed in Las Vegas:
Ultimately, Darryl explained that Jam Master Jay was the only reason they were not involved on the night of September 7, 1996.
Darryl continued stating:
“ Eric, my manager says, ‘Y’all go ahead without us. Suge says, “Why, what’s the problem?’ ‘Jay’s getting dressed.’ ‘Huh, what you talking about?’ When Jay would get dressed, Jay would have all his clothes out there. It’s worse than your wife or girl getting dressed. The reason why we ain’t ride to the fight with ‘Pac is ’cause Jay was getting dressed. Jay would spend hours. It would be a fashion show. Jay’s getting dressed. We say, ‘We’ll meet y’all at the afterparty.’ We get to the afterparty, Hammer’s there, the whole crew, everybody’s there, Mel Man, everybody’s there. “So we in the club waiting for the fight to end, all of a sudden one dude comes in. It’s about 100 people in there — they all leave. Empty cup, music off. A guy comes in with a briefcase. It’s me, Run and Jay. Everybody leaves. Guy comes with a briefcase, puts the briefcase on the table. Opens it up, it’s all cash. $200,000 cash there. ‘Y’all getting paid tonight, just no show. Go home.’ We didn’t know what was going on.”
The group later learned that they were paid a significant amount of money as a no-show for the afterparty, a cash exchange that now seemed suspicious in hindsight. He stated:
“So next morning, I had an afternoon flight. I’m in the gym on the treadmill and then CNN — ‘Last night in Vegas, 2Pac got shot.’ Like, ‘Oh shit, that’s why that happened.’”
Legal Battles & Exposés
On a somber note, the murder case tied to Tupac Shakur has resurfaced, with Duane “Keefe D” Davis standing trial. In September 2023, Davis was charged with the murder of Tupac Shakur, in which Davis has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
This trial date comes after recent developments and confessions related to Tupac’s death.
In addition, Suge Knight, known for his connection to the Tupac shooting, has launched a podcast,Collect Calls With Suge Knight. In one episode, Knight denied any ill feelings towards the accused shooter,Orlando Anderson, emphasizing that Anderson was not the actual shooter and had supported Knight during his legal proceedings.
This recognition comes as the hip-hop community celebrates the 50th anniversary of the genre. The induction ceremony, held by historian Jay Quan, honored these musicians with custom trophies and unique keepsakes.
Marlon Wayans Drops Bombshell
Marlon Wayans is another celebrity who opened up about the night Tupac was killed. During an interview on the Late Late Show with James Corden, Marlon talked with James and actor Marc Maron, where he shared that he saw both Tupac and Biggie moments before they were shot.
Justice has been a long time coming for rap legend Jam Master Jay. The Run-DMC member was tragically murdered in a New York recording studio all the way back in 2002. Now, prosecution of his alleged killers is finally being pursued. The three defendants Karl Jordan Jr, Ronald Washington, and Jay Bryant are all set to go on trial for the murder. It’s unclear at the time who was responsible for the actual shooting. But prosecutors hope that witness testimony will help clarify the events.
Earlier this month, the judge approved a motion filed by Bryant to be tried separately from the other two defendants. Subsequently, according to AllHipHop, the prosecution is making a strange request that could complicate things. Consequently, they’re calling for a joint trial with all the defendants and two separate juries.
Jam Master Jay’s Alleged Killers Facing Prosecution
NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 15: Hip Hop artist Jam Master Jay (Jason William Mizell; 1965 -2002; center in white) of Run DMC and friends pose for a photo at a party for the release of Run DMC’s album “Tougher Than Leather” on September 15, 1988 at the Palladium night club in New York City, New York. (Photo by Catherine McGann/Getty Images)
The move would help potentially streamline examination of the dozens of witnesses who are expected to be called. People attesting to the events on the night of the murder will be called. As will those speaking on comments made by the defendants afterward. It’s all in an attempt to gain clarity on the entire scope of the events.
One of the biggest points of contention in the trial is Bryant’s involvement in the actual killing. There are reportedly witnesses who will testify that he confessed to them after the fact that he was the trigger man. But eye-witness reports from inside the studio claim that it was his two accomplices who actually did the killing. What do you think of the prosecution asking for two juries in the trial of Jam Master Jay’s alleged killers? Let us know in the comment section below.
Ice-T, Roxanne Shante, Run-DMC, and more trailblazers are set to be inducted into the National Hip Hop Museum Hall. This exciting announcement comes in celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Welcome To The Party On Friday, Oct. 13, it was announced that some of the most influential hip-hop waymakers would be inducted into the […]
This month, hip-hop music turns the Big 5-0, and major industry legends have celebrated throughout the country with performances and special events honoring the milestone. On Thursday (Sept. 7), Darryl McDaniels (DMC) of Run-DMC hosted a 50th-anniversary Hip-Hop concert alongside Chuck D of Public Enemy at the Park City Song Summit. Following a high-energy performance in which he performed some of his biggest hits while also narrating some of the major influences that played a role in hip-hop’s evolution, he sat down with The Source to discuss 50 years of hip-hop, what it means to be a legend, and what he hopes the future of the genre will look like.
As far as some of the best things that McDaniels has seen during the global anniversary celebration, he said, “I think what’s beautiful is about a week ago, I saw an interview with Nas and he was saying to all his buddies from the era before him and even now: put out more music. The Foo Fighters are still putting out music, the [Rolling] Stones just dropped an incredible song called ‘Angry.’ It’s like I was saying on stage- they say hip-hop is a young person’s music. It was created by young people, but we’re older now. We should still be making music because the generations, whether it was the 70’s, the 80’s…it was all still growing. So I think for the 50th year, I want to say this: it’s been 50 years of hip-hop and we’re just getting started.”
As for what McDaniels hopes the next 50 years of hip-hop look like, he said: “I see it going back to the art form and the culture, more break dancing, break dancing is in the Olympics now, so that’s going to expose more kids asking ‘where did this really come from?’ DJing, MCing, graffiti, graphic design, all of that…the way that rock and roll has become a part of American, European, South American culture. I was down in Mexico doing a Comic Con and all these little Mexican kids had on Metallica, Slayer, Run-DMC, and Naughty By Nature, so we’re here now. I think hip-hop is going to get more back to the description of the social lives that we all have.”
When called an icon, McDaniels interjected “we are all collectively iconic. I was watching a show and the guy was explaining what a legend is. He said there is not one legend- the people that are in any generation or era that experience a cultural phenomenon or experience or event. Because how do you become a legend if there’s nobody there to experience what you’re experiencing?”
Regarding legends, McDaniels was also quick to shout out to fellow legend Chuck D for an amazing performance. He also took time to mention his new single “Me and My Microphone,” a collab with Chuck D, Ice-T, and DJ Jazzy Jeff and also announced that he’ll be dropping a new song in the coming weeks with Travis Barker of Blink-182 on drums and others as well, noting that every genre has drawn its inspiration from many other genres before concluding with “let’s rock,” which elicited cheers from the crowd.
On Friday, McDaniels and Chuck D joined David Manheim from the Dopey Podcast for “Hip-Hop: The First 50 Years,” a panel discussion of the origins and de-stigmatization of hip-hop that explored the roots and evolution of Hip-Hop culture, its impact on society, and how it has become a force for social justice and change.
Park City Song Summit is a multi-day music and wellness event featuring intimate conversations and musical performances from various genres. The event started out “of a passion for music and a mission to bring clarity and normalcy to the struggles musicians, artists, and music lovers alike face around mental health and dependency.”
The event offers audiences a chance to explore and celebrate the myth, inspiration, passion, and history of the song with a group of musicians, creatives, songwriters, thought leaders, and industry pioneers with performances, panels, discussions, health and wellness activities, workshops, and more.
Darryl “DMC” McDaniels recently wrapped one leg of his career at the Hip-Hop 50 Live event when he concluded his performing run as a member of Run-DMC. What’s next? Not a bid for the Oval Office.
DMC was at an Inter Miami game and rightwinged website Outkick flipped his “running for president starting today” as a fact. Speaking with AllHipHop, DMC shut down any talks of his presidency.
“That’s why media today is a joke,” DMC said. “They just run with anything before even confirming it. I would never run for president. I get more done as a representative of all people. The point I was trying to make is the arts succeed where politics and religion fails.”
There are multiple legends who are rappers from Queens. New York has been a mecca for hip-hop long before the East Coast vs West Coast “war.” The state was the center of the conscious movement in rap music in the 1990s, with artists telling stories about their lives and empowering others. This happened again in the 2010s with the artists from Beast Coast. There’s also a strong underground scene with artists who fit in the “alternative rap” lane. Queens, specifically, is home to several artists who have well-established and ongoing legacies. Some artists are still active today, whether musically or in other endeavors. The state has been producing talents of all kinds for decades.
Run-D.M.C.
Run-D.M.C., a Hip Hop trio, consisted of Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell, Joseph “Run” Simmons, and Darryl “D.M.C.” McDaniels. Sadly, Jam Master Jay was murdered in 2002, leaving a global fanbase in mourning. However, Rev Run and D.M.C. have performed several times since losing their longtime friend. Recently, the duo closed out Hip Hop 50 Live at Yankee Stadium in August 2023.
The group’s prominence was in the 1980s as their rock and rap fusion brought something new to listeners from both musical worlds. This was most apparent in their collaboration with Aerosmith, “Walk This Way,” which the band re-recorded with the rap group – instead of them rapping over a sample. Run-D.M.C. had a successful run on the charts, with multiple songs and albums going Gold and Platinum. Their song, “My Adidas,” resulted in them getting an official collaboration with the brand. Their signature Adidas tracksuit look has become a staple in hip-hop fashion.
Cormega
Cormega is an artist with ties to other notable rappers from Queens. These include Capone, Havoc, and Nas. His connection to the latter has been a large part of his career. The two started as collaborators and members of the supergroup, The Firm. However, Cormega was later removed from the group, and the two exchanged tracks across the years, sharing how and why this happened.
Later, Cormega started his own label and released his albums through it. He also released a compilation project for artists on the label. Cormega and Nas settled their differences in public when they performed together in 2006. More recently, Cormega and the rest of the members of The Firm were featured on a track fittingly titled “Full Circle” from Nas’ album King’s Disease.
LL Cool J
LL Cool J has been involved in hip hop for multiple generations. His career started in music in the late ’80s and expanded into the early ’90s. He frequently worked with producer Rick Rubin. As time progressed, LL began diversifying his music portfolio by blending more R&B into his songs. Several of his albums sold millions of copies, his singles charted multiple times, and he became a key figure in the public eye. His diversity in music made him highly successful and accessible to various audiences. LL would go on to also act in multiple roles, write books, and host programs. He’s an excellent example of a rapper becoming even more prominent outside of their music.
Phife Dawg is a member of the rap group A Tribe Called Quest and a rapper from Queens. He passed away in 2016. This was especially heartbreaking for listeners because the group released an album that same year. The album, titled We Got It From Here…Thank You 4 Your Service was worked on secretly by Q-Tip and Phife. The latter also named the album. It was released 18 years after their previous album, The Love Movement.
Q-Tip, Jarobi, and DJ Ali often included tributes to Phife when they performed songs from the album during their promo run for it. Phife’s verses mirrored the themes of his group members, often discussing socially political themes and fun, creative verses. Phife’s nickname of the “Five Foot Assassin” came from verses that fit the latter. His second solo album, Forever, was released posthumously on the sixth anniversary of his passing.
Roxanne Shanté
Roxanne Shanté is a rapper from Queens who paved the way for multiple women in rap. Her name may not be instantly recognizable by those not well-versed in decades of rap history, but her impact is eternal. She was also a member of the Juice Crew. She built her career on diss records where she called out her targets by name. The most notorious of these started a series of response diss records called the “Roxanne Wars,” which featured a myriad of other artists – including one called “The Real Roxanne.” This series began when she was allegedly only 14 years old. Roxanne Shanté was one of the first women to have her music videos played on platforms like Video Music Box and BET. Shanté soon became the center of attention and was accompanied on tour by another legend in the rap game: Biz Markie.
Pharoahe Monch
Pharoahe Monch is an underground rapper from Queens who has a cemented legacy. Multiple rappers have celebrated and studied him. His career began when he was a member of the duo Organized Konfusion with Prince Poetry. They released three projects, and Monch later embarked on a solo career. His biggest hit as a solo artist was “Simon Says,” which was released in 1999. He also contributed to other media, recording a song for the Training Day soundtrack and the theme for Madden 2002. Monch’s unique approach to music through technical skill, creative flows, and subject matter are why he’s held in such high regard. He formed the rap-rock supergroup Th1rt3en in 2019 with guitarist Marcus Machado and drummer Daru Jones. His skill takes on an entirely new meaning when one considers he has had asthma his whole life.
Salt-N-Pepa
Salt-N-Pepa is a group of rappers from Queens. As women in the rap game in the late ’80s, they are naturally a part of history. Their debut album, Hot Cool and Vicious, sold one million copies, making them the first female rap group to go Platinum. This album contained the hit single “Push It,” which is still popular and used in media today.
They entered the scene at a time when women in rap were not nearly as common as they are in the present day. They took control of the narrative of how women had been portrayed and spoke for women who agreed with their perspectives. Their style was not aggressive as they rapped confidently over more dance and pop-based hip hop production. They received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022.
Kool G Rap
Kool G Rap is a legendary rapper from Queens. For many, he was a pioneer for artists who favored writing raps about their lives in the streets. Outside of this, he was also praised for his delivery, flows, and rhyme schemes, which were all equally complex and intricate. His “multisyllabic rhyming” technique is still niche and praised by many audiences.
Additionally, G Rap’s breath control in his verses is key to his delivery. He has been credited as a pioneer for “mafioso rap.” This is a technique where rappers mention and reference various figures from mafia and gangster culture, whether they are fictional or historical figures. They do this through verses, song titles, imagery, and even samples in the music. Artists like Biggie and Jay-Z took this to the next level but took direct inspiration from Kool G Rap.
Q-Tip
Q-Tip is a rapper from Queens who also produces. Many know him for his time with A Tribe Called Quest, but he received praise for his production credits outside the group. Q-Tip uses jazz sample-based production that pairs well with the smooth delivery of him and his group members. The group was integral to creating this soundscape, and other rap groups followed in their path.
Their single, “Electric Relaxation,” is also one of the best examples of this sound and has become a universally celebrated classic. Q-Tip himself has produced for various artists in his career across generations. These production credits range from Nas to Mariah Carey, Solange to Cordae, and many more. His time in the game has garnered him a wealth of respect.
Mobb Deep
Mobb Deep is a duo from Queens comprising rapper Prodigy and producer and rapper Havoc. Prodigy passed away in 2017. The duo is most known for their song “Shook Ones, Part II,” which has also become a classic amongst rap fans from the past and current generations. Mobb Deep’s second album, The Infamous… which went Gold, is their most highly regarded. Mobb Deep’s music had dark and eerie production, which paired well with their subject matter. Most of the production across the duo’s discography came from Havoc, who used creative samples and techniques to craft dynamic soundscapes for the duo. Further, they are regarded as one of the key figures of rap’s “hardcore hip hop” subgenre.
Nas
Nas is a rapper from Queens that many people have in their Top 5, dead or alive. His debut album, Illmatic, has been called essential listening by multiple generations of hip-hop fans. The album was written by Nas when he was 17 but released when he was 21. His skill level on his debut album showcased he was far above many of his older contemporaries.
Nas has been praised for his storytelling and lyrical skill across the years. However, he’s also tried unique and creative things in his music that received mixed reactions. Recently, he went on a run of releasing several projects since 2020 with producer Hit-Boy. The duo received a GRAMMY for their collab, King’s Disease, in 2020. It seems each project receives more praise than the one that precedes it, showing Nas is still elevating as a lyricist.
Who are some of your favorite rappers from Queens? Let us know in the comments section.
