King Of Rock

Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons produced this project, emphasizing the lean, minimalist approach that characterized the early days of Def Jam. The recording avoids the disco production styles of the prior era to favor direct, street-ready beats.

Everything rests on the group's forceful, alternating vocal style. By integrating rock instrumentation, the trio expanded the typical range of hip hop and established a new approach to the genre's rhythm and presentation.