Background and Release
In 1986, Run DMC and Aerosmith released a hip hop rock remake of Aerosmith's 1975 song "Walk This Way." The track appeared on Run DMC's album "Raising Hell" and was produced by Rick Rubin. It became one of the first major rap-rock crossover hits.
Chart Performance and Commercial Impact
The single reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and number eight on the Hot Black Singles chart. It helped introduce hip hop to rock audiences and expanded the commercial reach of both acts. The song also boosted sales of the original Aerosmith track and the "Raising Hell" album.
Legacy and Influence
The music video, which featured both groups in a shared setting, became iconic for breaking racial and genre barriers on television. The collaboration is frequently cited in discussions about the fusion of hip hop and rock. For more background, see the official Aerosmith overview at AllMusic.
