43 years ago, Hip Hop witnessed the arrival of a record that would forever change the culture. On this day in 1983, Run-D.M.C. released their groundbreaking debut single, “It’s Like That,” introducing the world to a harder, stripped-down sound that would redefine rap music for generations to come.

Released through Profile Records as the lead single from the trio’s self-titled debut album, “It’s Like That” paired Joseph “Run” Simmons’ commanding cadence with Darryl “DMC” McDaniels’ booming baritone over Larry Smith’s minimalist production. Gone were the disco-inspired grooves that characterized much of Hip Hop’s early years. In their place came thunderous drum machine patterns, socially conscious lyricism and an undeniable street authenticity that became the blueprint for the new school movement.

Far more than a party record, “It’s Like That” tackled unemployment, poverty, inflation and the everyday struggles facing inner-city communities. Run-D.M.C. proved that Hip Hop could entertain while delivering messages rooted in the realities of life, setting the stage for countless socially conscious records that followed.

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