Introduction: The Rise of Run the Jewels and the Power of RTJ3
When Killer Mike and El-P joined forces in 2013 to form Run the Jewels, they unleashed a seismic shift in hip-hop. Combining razor-sharp lyricism, politically charged commentary, and bombastic production, the duo carved a niche as rap’s most unapologetic truth-tellers. Their third album, Run the Jewels 3 (RTJ3), released in December 2016 (with a physical rollout in 2017), stands as a defining moment in their discography. This article explores the making of RTJ3, its themes, cultural impact, and why it remains a cornerstone of modern political rap.
The Formation of Run the Jewels: A Match Made in Hip-Hop Heaven
Before Run the Jewels 3, there was the origin story. Killer Mike, a firebrand Southern rapper, and El-P, a Brooklyn-based producer/MC known for his experimental beats, first collaborated on Mike’s 2012 solo album R.A.P. Music. Their chemistry was undeniable, leading to the birth of Run the Jewels. Their self-titled debut (2013) and Run the Jewels 2 (2014) established their signature style: aggressive flows, dystopian beats, and lyrics that tackled systemic oppression, capitalism, and police brutality. By the time RTJ3 arrived, the duo had already cemented their status as hip-hop’s most incendiary voices.
The Making of Run the Jewels 3: Chaos, Creativity, and a Surprise Release
Run the Jewels 3 was crafted during a tumultuous period. Recorded amidst global political upheaval, including the rise of Donald Trump and the Black Lives Matter movement, the album channels collective anger and resilience. Originally planned for 2017, the duo surprise-dropped RTJ3 digitally in December 2016 as a free download, calling it a “Christmas fuck-you” to oppressive systems.
Key Tracks and Collaborations:
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“Talk to Me”: A blistering opener with El-P’s frenetic production.
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“Legend Has It”: An anthem of self-mythology, featuring the duo’s trademark bravado.
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“Thursday in the Danger Room”: A haunting reflection on mortality, featuring Kamasi Washington’s saxophone.
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“A Report to the Shareholders/Kill Your Masters”: A scathing critique of corporate greed, with Zack de la Rocha (Rage Against the Machine) on vocals.
El-P’s production evolved to include jazz-infused melodies and industrial grit, while Killer Mike’s verses grew more introspective, reflecting his role as a community leader.
Themes and Lyrics: Rebellion, Resistance, and Radical Honesty
RTJ3 is a manifesto for the disenfranchised. The album’s lyrics dissect police violence (“Thieves! (Screamed the Ghost)”), systemic racism (“Don’t Get Captured”), and existential despair (“2100”). Tracks like “Down” (featuring Joi Gilliam) blend vulnerability with defiance, while “Call Ticketron” uses absurdist humor to mock societal collapse.
Notable Lyrics:
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“You so numb, you watch the cops choke out a man like me / Until my voice goes from a shriek to whisper, ‘I can’t breathe’” – “Thieves! (Screamed the Ghost)”
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“I’ll move on you like a snake, assassinate your character and legacy in one take” – “Legend Has It”
The duo’s “kill your masters” ethos resonates as a call to dismantle oppressive structures, making RTJ3 a soundtrack for modern revolution.
Musical Style and Production: Pushing Boundaries in Hip-Hop
El-P’s production on RTJ3 is a masterclass in innovation. He blends glitchy synths, distorted basslines, and live instrumentation to create a soundscape that’s both chaotic and cohesive. Tracks like “Hey Kids (Bumaye)” incorporate Afrobeat rhythms, while “Stay Gold” features soulful hooks juxtaposed with hard-hitting verses.
The album’s dynamic range—from the frenetic energy of “Oh Mama” to the somber reflection of “Thursday in the Danger Room”—showcases Run the Jewels’ ability to balance rage and introspection.
Impact and Legacy: Why RTJ3 Still Matters
Upon release, Run the Jewels 3 received universal acclaim, landing on year-end lists by Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian. It debuted at #35 on the Billboard 200 and became a cultural touchstone for activists and artists alike.
Enduring Relevance:
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The album’s themes of resistance mirror ongoing struggles for racial justice and economic equality.
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Its “Fuck the fascists” ethos has been adopted by protest movements worldwide.
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RTJ3’s influence can be heard in younger artists like JPEGMAFIA and Denzel Curry, who blend politics with experimental sounds.
In 2020, amid George run 3 Floyd protests, Killer Mike’s emotional speech in Atlanta went viral—echoing the urgency of RTJ3’s messaging.
Conclusion: Run the Jewels 3 as a Blueprint for Revolutionary Art
Run the Jewels 3 isn’t just an album; it’s a rallying cry. By merging unflinching social commentary with groundbreaking production, Killer Mike and El-P created a work that transcends hip-hop. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, RTJ3 demands attention—not just for its artistry, but for its unwavering commitment to speaking truth to power.
Call to Action: Stream Run the Jewels 3 on Spotify or Bandcamp, and follow the duo’s ongoing activism. In a world teetering on chaos, their music remains a beacon run 3 of resistance.
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Internal/External Links Suggestions:
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Link to Run the Jewels’ official website.
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Link to RTJ3 on streaming platforms.
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