Rev Run, born Joseph Simmons, is a renowned American rapper, DJ, and producer with a net worth of $60 million. As a founding member of the iconic hip-hop group Run-D.M.C., Rev Run has significantly influenced the music industry and amassed considerable wealth through his music, television appearances, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Early Life and Background
Joseph Ward Simmons, known professionally as Rev Run, was born on November 14, 1964, in Queens, New York. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in the arts and education. His mother, Evelyn, worked as a park administrator, while his father, Daniel, taught black history and was a school attendance supervisor. Joseph is the younger brother of Danny Simmons, a well-known artist, and Russell Simmons, co-founder of Def Jam Recordings.
The Rise of Run-D.M.C.
Before co-founding Run-D.M.C., Simmons was part of a hip-hop group called The Force. In 1983, he joined forces with Darryl McDaniels (D.M.C.) and Jason Mizell (Jam Master Jay) to form Run-D.M.C., signing a deal with Profile Records. Their debut single, “It’s Like That/Sucker MCs,” was followed by the release of their self-titled debut album in 1984. The album peaked at #14 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Run-D.M.C. quickly rose to prominence with their 1985 album “King of Rock” and the 1986 multi-platinum album “Raising Hell,” which included the hit single “Walk This Way,” a collaboration with Aerosmith. The group’s innovative approach and crossover appeal made them pioneers in the hip-hop genre, achieving numerous firsts, such as being the first hip-hop act to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone and to have their music videos played on MTV.
Continued Success and Disbandment
Throughout their nearly 20-year career, Run-D.M.C. released several successful albums, including “Tougher Than Leather” (1988), “Back from Hell” (1990), “Down with the King” (1993), and “Crown Royal” (2001). The group’s influential work earned them a Grammy nomination, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.
Tragically, Jam Master Jay was murdered in 2002, leading to the disbandment of Run-D.M.C. Despite the end of the group, their legacy continues to impact the music industry.
Solo Ventures and Reality TV
After the disbandment of Run-D.M.C., Rev Run pursued a solo career, releasing the album “Distortion” in 2005. His single “Mind on the Road” was featured in the video game Madden NFL 06. The same year, he appeared on the single “Song 4 Lovers” by the UK pop band Liberty X.
Rev Run also found success on television. From 2005 to 2009, he starred in the MTV reality series “Run’s House,” which provided an inside look at his family life. The show aired 59 episodes over six seasons and was well-received by audiences. He later starred in and produced other reality shows, including “Rev Run’s Renovation,” “Rev Run’s Sunday Suppers,” and “Rev Runs Around the World.”
Personal Life
Joseph Simmons married Valerie Vaughn in 1983, and they had three children together: Joseph Jr. (JoJo), Vanessa, and Angela. The couple divorced in 1992. In 1994, Simmons married Justine Jones, and they have three children: Daniel (Diggy), Russell (Russy), and Victoria. Sadly, Victoria passed away shortly after birth due to a birth defect. The couple later adopted a daughter, Miley, in 2007.
Rev Run’s personal life has been marked by his dedication to his family and his faith. After being ordained as a Pentecostal minister, he adopted the name “Rev Run” and became a spiritual leader for many.
Awards and Recognitions
Rev Run has received numerous accolades throughout his career. In 2004, his mentor, E. Bernard Jordan, awarded him the “Protégé of the Year Award.” In 2007, he was named a BMI Icon at the BMI Urban Awards. With Run-D.M.C., he earned two Soul Train Awards and multiple nominations from the American Music Awards and MTV Video Music Awards.
Real Estate Investments
In 2003, Rev Run purchased a home in Saddle River, New Jersey, for $1.6 million. The six-bedroom house, featured on “Run’s House,” includes a recording studio, home theater, and indoor basketball court. The property was listed for sale at $5.3 million in 2005 and re-listed for $5.5 million in 2007.
Historical and Cultural Impact
Rev Run’s influence extends beyond his financial success. As a pioneer of hip-hop, he helped shape the genre and brought it into the mainstream. Run-D.M.C.’s collaboration with Aerosmith on “Walk This Way” is often credited with bridging the gap between rock and hip-hop, creating a new cultural phenomenon.
The group’s groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of hip-hop artists, and their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Rev Run’s work as a minister and television personality further solidifies his status as a multifaceted cultural icon.
Conclusion
Rev Run, with a net worth of $60 million, has built an impressive career as a rapper, producer, and television star. His contributions to the music industry, particularly through Run-D.M.C., have left an indelible mark on hip-hop culture. Through his entrepreneurial ventures and personal endeavors, Rev Run continues to inspire and influence both within and beyond the entertainment world.
