Explore the success of Run the Jewels 2 and the challenges that followed. Learn about LP's underground hip hop career and collaboration with Killer Mike, as well as the decision to continue making music together. Discover the symbolism behind the bandages on the album cover and delve into the thoughtful nature of rap music. Reflect on the evolution of tours and growing audiences, and how they used their platform for charity.
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Quick takeaways
Run the Jewels 2 propelled the duo to worldwide popularity and presented new challenges.
Meow the Jewels remix album combined humor, music, and charity to make a positive impact.
The success of Run the Jewels 2 allowed the duo to collaborate with artists, foster connections, and create a closer relationship with fans.
Deep dives
The Rise of Run the Jewels
Run the Jewels was initially intended as a one-off project, but after the success of their first album, they decided to continue as a duo. With Run the Jewels 2, the group experienced a surge in popularity and began playing to larger crowds. They captured their growth in music videos and experienced the challenges of fame. Despite the rise, they remained true to their values and used their platform to advocate for social and political causes.
Meow the Jewels
Meow the Jewels was a remix album created by Run the Jewels, featuring cat sounds. It started as a joke pre-order package, but when a fan raised money through Kickstarter, they decided to use the opportunity to raise funds for charity. They enlisted renowned producers to remix their music using cat noises and donated the proceeds to the families of Michael Brown and Eric Garner, as well as National Lawyers Guild. The project highlighted the power of humor and music in making a positive impact.
The Impact of the Second Album
Run the Jewels 2 surpassed expectations, with larger audiences and growing excitement around the music. The duo witnessed a surge in ticket sales and experienced explosive energy at their shows. They developed a closer relationship with fans and even had to establish rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment at their performances. The success of the album allowed them to collaborate with artists like Snoop Dogg and foster connections with like-minded individuals in the music industry.
The Austin Attack
During the South by Southwest music festival, Run the Jewels was attacked on stage by an individual who believed they had stolen his lyrics. The incident left both Mike and LP physically injured, but they showed empathy towards the attacker, recognizing his mental health issues. This experience made them realize the increasing prominence of their music and the need to address certain challenges that come with fame and larger audiences.
Putting More of Themselves into the Music
With Run the Jewels 2, the duo aimed to bring more of their own perspectives and experiences into the music. They sought to evolve their sound, avoid repetition, and address social and personal topics beyond just humor and lyrical skill. This approach allowed them to connect more deeply with their fans, create a more meaningful impact, and solidify their place in the music industry.
In 2014 El-P and Killer Mike released their second full length as Run The Jewels. While they knew that the energy and sound of RTJ was undeniable, it was the second release that truly catapulted the duo to worldwide popularity. Along with the success came brand new challenges.
