Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante spearheaded a “social distancing” virtual performance with rapper Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, Volbeat guitarist Rob Caggiano and Suicidal Tendencies bassist Ra Diaz for a rap-rock medley of Run-DMC hits to benefit Music Unites.
“I always wanted to do a medley of RUN-DMC songs, so back in March I decided to put an arrangement together and asked these amazing people to be a part of it,” wrote Benante. “How can you do a RUN-DMC medley without the KING of ROCK-—Darryl McDaniels DMC. I have been a RUN-DMC fan from back when I first heard ‘It’s Like That/Sucker MCs’. They had my attention immediately! It’s no secret that our ‘I’m the Man’ song was inspired by RUN-DMC and the Beastie Boys…that’s how much we loved them.
“I asked Ra once again because he has the groove and creativity to adapt to any song. I love how he placed a familiar line at the end of the song that just fit so well. I asked Rob Caggiano because I always loved his style. I love the way he attacks his guitar and plays the tastiest shit. He throws this great Black metal riff in here that raises the tune to another level. We all came together to create this piece of music that makes US move.”
Caggiano, who nailed his memorable parts on his all-new Jackson USA Signature Shadowcaster, had this to say about his participation:
“RUN-DMC was a big influence on me as well so when Charlie hit me with this idea I got really excited about it! Those guys blurred the lines back in the day and changed the course of music forever. Doing this track made me realize even more how incredibly powerful music can be on so many levels.”
Enjoy watching the video of this impressive jam below, and help support the cause by downloading the track for $1.99 via Bandcamp. Again, proceeds benefit Music Unites, whose mission is to raise academic and lifetime achievement for at-risk public school students through the support and creation of unique music education partnerships and programs.
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