Krush Groove: A Glimpse of Hip-Hop in the Midst of Struggles

Hip-Hop's Triumph Amidst Adversity"

Yo, what's up, blog readers? Dave Shelton's here, no worries,

Step into my world, where the '80s vibe's never blurry,

Party people gather 'round, no need to hurry,

Let's rewind to that era, where memories are our story,

Sit back, relax, take your time, no need to scurry,

I'm the rapper you adore, with rhymes so pure, don't worry,

Beats so fresh, they'll make you want to flurry,

Dave Shelton on the mic, and we're about to hurry!

This blog's the stage where nostalgia takes its glory,

With "Krush Groove" vibes, it's the same old story,

From the Bronx to Queens, hip-hop's legendary territory,

We'll dive into the past, where it gets kinda scary,

From boomboxes to breakdancing, a journey you'll want to marry,

In this '80s rap groove, where memories are our treasury,

So sit tight, take a sip, and let's explore; no need to hurry!

-Dave Shelton

"I'm the king of rock; there is none higher

Sucker MCs should call me Sire

To burn my kingdom, you must use fire

I won't stop rockin' till I retire" - RUN DMC

Disclaimer: This movie and the music in it changed my life forever...

In the early '80s, my childhood was defined by the stark reality of growing up in abject poverty. Our modest home, nestled in the heart of a struggling neighborhood, was a testament to the hand-to-mouth existence we knew all too well. The walls, once painted a hopeful shade of sky blue, had long faded into a melancholic gray, mirroring the fading dreams of a better life.

My parents were devout Christians, their unwavering faith the only treasure they held dear in a world where possessions were scarce. For them, the church was not just a place of worship but a sanctuary against the temptations of the outside world. It was a refuge where their beliefs were carved into the very marrow of their bones. They held firm to the conviction that movie theaters were nothing less than a portal to the devil's lair, where the flames of temptation danced, and souls were lured into the abyss of damnation. As a result, the mere thought of setting foot inside a movie theater was met with vehement resistance. Their fear was not just of the silver screen but of what lay beyond it—a world of hedonism, moral decay, and eternal punishment. To them, entering such a place was a pact with darkness, a step closer to a fiery destiny. The walls of the theater, they believed, concealed the very gates of hell, waiting to devour any who dared cross the threshold. Cable TV, a luxury many took for granted, was a distant dream in our household. We could not afford the monthly subscription, and thus, we found ourselves shrouded in a world of literal and figurative darkness. Our living room, illuminated only by the feeble glow of a single incandescent bulb hanging from the ceiling, was where shadows danced ominously on the peeling wallpaper. In this environment, we navigated a life devoid of the visual splendors and distractions others enjoyed. While our peers reveled in the latest movies and television shows, we clung to our faith, finding solace in the dimly lit rooms of our home, our imaginations our only source of escape. It was a world where bedtime stories and oral traditions were our entertainment, the crackling of an old radio provided the soundtrack to our evenings, and our dreams and aspirations were the only lights piercing the darkness.

Against this backdrop of scarcity, "Krush Groove" emerged as a beacon of hope and a symbol of a world beyond our own. It represented not just a movie but an opportunity to glimpse the forbidden fruits of popular culture that had long been denied to us. It was a desire unfulfilled, a promise unkept, and a reminder of the walls that confined our lives. Nevertheless, in that longing, it also held the power to inspire and ignite the imagination as we yearned for a taste of the world that lay beyond our reach.

This Movie had all of my heroes:

Run-D.M.C. (Joseph "Run" Simmons, Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels, and Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell)

L.L. Cool J (James Todd Smith)

Kurtis Blow (Kurtis Walker)

Blair Underwood (portraying Russell Simmons)

Sheila E. (Sheila Escovedo)

The Fat Boys (Prince Markie Dee, Kool Rock Ski, and Buff Love)

Rick Rubin

New Edition (Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, Michael Bivins, Ricky Bell, and Ronnie DeVoe)

Beastie Boys (Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz, Michael "Mike D" Diamond, and Adam "MCA" Yauch)

"Krush Groove" was a name that echoed through the hallways of my school and in the neighborhood. All the kids were talking about it, and we could not help but feel left out. It was the hip-hop anthem of the 1980s, a way for young Black youths like me to be heard and noticed by the world. Hip-hop, with its pulsating beats and lyrical storytelling, was our voice, and "Krush Groove" was a testament to that.

The emotions tied to "Krush Groove" were a mix of happiness and sadness. I was thrilled that we finally had something that resonated with us, that told our stories and struggles. However, it was also a source of sadness because, despite my desire, I never got to see the entire film. My parents' strict beliefs kept me from experiencing it on the big screen. I vividly remember friends raving about the movie after seeing it multiple times. I would muster up the courage to ask my parents if I could go to a friend's house to watch it, but I was met with resounding denials. To them, this type of music and culture did not align with our Christian values.

Krush Groove is based on the inception of the Def Jam Recordings label and the hardships that artists Run-D.M.C. and Russell Simmons faced to become successful. Simmons began his career trying to get his company, Rush Management, up and running. ("Krush Groove," 2023)

Then came the day when fate smiled upon me. I was at a friend's house, and while using the restroom, I stumbled upon a sight that felt like discovering a hidden treasure. There it was, "Krush Groove," playing on his TV, and no one was watching. It was as if a priceless gem had been left unattended in the heart of our neighborhood, and nobody cared.

With cautious excitement, I started watching, relishing every moment of the film I longed to see. Nevertheless, as fate would have it, the channel changed abruptly about 30 minutes into the movie. My friend's grandmother switched the TV in the living room and stared at me sternly. "GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY," she commanded. It was not just her words; it was how she said it, and the realization that my moment of joy had been cut short was devastating. I left, heartbroken, and played outside, but the memory of that brief glimpse of "Krush Groove" stayed with me. 

1991(6 years later)- It was my 18th birthday; I had already left my parents' home in Toledo, Ohio, and relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana. During this time, I found myself at a friend's house, and VH1 was airing a marathon of this movie all day. I could not resist; I watched and watched the movie repeatedly, almost as if I were dissecting it like a CSI investigator. 

Now, let us return to the broader context of "Krush Groove" and the impact of its iconic tracks by LL Cool J, the Fat Boys, and Run-D.M.C. These songs served as anthems for a generation and resonated with young people facing similar challenges and dreams as I did.

As I embarked on a meticulous investigation and dissection of this iconic movie, I unearthed the following revelations and insights.

LL. Cool J

LL Cool J's "I Can't Live Without My Radio" was not just a catchy tune; it was a sonic anthem that reverberated through the hearts and minds of young artists, a profound reflection of the pivotal role that music played in their lives. The song's infectious beat and lyrical prowess were not merely for entertainment; they carried the weight of dreams and aspirations.

As the track thumped through the speakers, it was as if the very essence of hip-hop culture had found its voice. It encapsulated the unyielding passion and dedi
cation of a generation determined to carve their names into the annals of music history. The urgency in LL Cool J's delivery mirrored the relentless pursuit of recognition and success that coursed through the veins of countless aspiring hip-hop artists.

Listening to "I Can't Live Without My Radio" was like tapping into the collective heartbeat of a community that had been marginalized for far too long. It was a song, a battle cry, a declaration of independence from a world that had long overlooked their talents and voices. The song's resonance with the character's struggles in the movie was undeniable. It mirrored their journey, the uphill battle against the odds, and the burning desire to break free from the constraints of their circumstances. Just as the characters in "Krush Groove" fought for their place in the music industry, so did LL Cool J's lyrics encapsulate the determination to rise above adversity. In essence, "I Can't Live Without My Radio" was not just a track on the soundtrack; it was a living, breathing embodiment of the spirit of hip-hop itself. It served as a reminder that music was more than just entertainment; it was a lifeline, a source of strength, and a conduit for expressing the dreams and struggles of an entire generation.

In a particular scene from "Krush Groove," LL COOL J, then a 17-year-old newcomer, boldly barges into an office where Jam Master Jay, Run, DMC, Rick Rubin, and executives are conducting auditions. He demands a chance to prove himself, and his on-screen persona closely mirrors his real-life confidence. Despite LL's arrogance, everyone involved in the film, including Run-DMC's Russell Simmons, shared a sense of youthful self-assuredness. On the set, The Fat Boys, including Kool Rock Ski, Prince Markie Dee, and Buff Love, playfully teased LL COOL J almost daily. ("THE STORY BEHIND 'KRUSH GROOVE,'" 2021)

The Fat Boys

The inclusion of The Fat Boys' "All You Can Eat" injected a delightful and whimsical facet into the film's narrative fabric. With their charismatic and larger-than-life personas, the trio entertained and served as a refreshing contrast to the movie's overall tone. Their music brought forth a contagious, playful exuberance, and it was impossible not to crack a smile as their infectious beats filled the airwaves.

At its core, "All You Can Eat" celebrated the unabashed joy of indulgence, both in terms of food and in a broader sense. The lyrics and music video depicted a world where appetite knew no bounds, where pleasure derived from the simple act of savoring life's pleasures to the fullest. It was an ode to the unapologetic pursuit of happiness, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the audience.

In a way, the song could be interpreted as a commentary on the excesses of consumer culture that characterized the 1980s. It was an era marked by conspicuous consumption and a thirst for more, where material wealth was often equated with success and happiness. "All You Can Eat" playfully exaggerated this cultural phenomenon, highlighting the absurdity of ceaseless consumption. In doing so, the song tapped into a cultural zeitgeist, where people grappled with the consequences of unbridled consumerism. It served as a gentle reminder that amidst the pursuit of abundance, there was value in life's simple pleasures, in finding happiness beyond material possessions. The Fat Boys' irreverent and humorous take on this theme not only entertained but also offered a subtle commentary on the societal values of the time.

In the context of "Krush Groove," The Fat Boys' contribution was more than just a catchy tune; it was a lighthearted exploration of societal excesses, a break from the seriousness of the music industry, and a testament to the power of music to engage with cultural themes while bringing joy to the hearts of its listeners.

Run-D.M.C

And then there is Run-D.M.C., whose track "King of Rock" showcased their musical prowess and groundbreaking role in bringing rap to the mainstream. Run-D.M.C.! They are the true kings of the hip-hop realm, and in "Krush Groove," they stepped onto the stage of cinematic glory with a track that was not just a song; it was a seismic shockwave of musical prowess! "King of Rock" was more than a tune; it was a declaration, a battle cry, and an anthem of a genre on the cusp of rewriting the rules of music history.

With each beat and each word, Run-D.M.C. delivered a sonic manifesto that resonated with the very soul of hip-hop. Their raps were razor-sharp, their swagger undeniable, and their influence immeasurable. They were not just rappers; they were pioneers, shattering the glass ceiling of the mainstream music industry and blazing a trail for generations to follow.

"King of Rock" was a song and a mission statement. It boldly proclaimed its ascension to the throne of rock and rap, merging the worlds of hip-hop and rock 'n' roll with an audacious fervor. The song was a testament to their groundbreaking role in bringing rap to the mainstream, proving that hip-hop was more than just a passing trend—it was a cultural force to be reckoned with.

Their story within "Krush Groove" was a narrative of resilience and determination, an ode to the transformative power of hip-hop. It showcased their journey from the mean streets to the grand stages, obscurity to stardom, and adversity to triumph. Run-D.M.C. embodied the very essence of hip-hop—a genre that empowers young people to rise above their circumstances, express themselves authentically, and break down the barriers that society places before them.

As a fan, witnessing Run-D.M.C.'s presence in "Krush Groove" was nothing short of electrifying. It was a reminder of their iconic status and their enduring legacy. They were not just performers; they were torchbearers of a cultural revolution, carrying the hopes and dreams of an entire generation on their shoulders.

Looking back, "Krush Groove" remains an indelible part of my life, a reminder of where I came from, and a testament to the power of hip-hop to tell stories, inspire change, and provide hope. It encapsulates my journey from the darkness of poverty to a place where the beats of hip-hop culture guide the rhythm of life. "Krush Groove" and its iconic tracks are not just music; they are a part of our shared history, a testament to the resilience of a generation that found its voice through the power of hip-hop.

In exploring the more significant work of "Krush Groove" and its iconic tracks, we see how music and storytelling intertwine to reflect the struggles and aspirations of a community. The movie's portrayal of hip-hop culture provides a window into a pivotal era, and the songs by LL Cool J, the Fat Boys, and Run-D.M.C. amplify the voices of a generation.

As we reflect on the social commentary embedded in these tracks, it is evident that "Krush Groove" and its music go beyond entertainment; they are cultural artifacts that inspire change and provide hope.

 In all its pulsating beats and lyrical narratives, hip-hop remains a powerful force for self-expression and resistance. "Krush Groove" stands as a testament to the enduring influence of hip-hop on storytelling and social commentary, reminding us of the journey from darkness to the rhythm of life guided by the beats of a culture that never stopped speaking its truth. That you enjoy. I want to say I'd never thought I would have an opportunity to write about the movie that changed my life. Thank you for listening and watching. 

Reviews of 1985's Krush Groove:

The music itself is more than abundant, sometimes accompanied by concert scenes and sometimes by impromptu clowning; the Fat Boys are particularly skilled when it comes to the latter. And Sheila E. is a showstopping presence on stage. Miss E., the protege of Prince who has mastered his better dance moves, is best seen in concert, dressed as a glitter-happy buccaneer; like the other players, she seems most out of place in the tepidly good-natured conversational scenes that the film also favors. Mr. Schultz, who pays homage to his own career with an opening "Car Wash" reference, has often seemed a more roughly, rambunctiously funny director than he does here. Rap and Romance KRUSH GROOVE, directed by Michael Schultz; -By Janet Maslin The NEW YORK TIMES Oct. 25, 1985

Krush Groove is the rare film that is its' own thing. That is, of course, not always a good thing, but in the case of this little piece of history, it is. I will explain.

By 1985, rap had become more mainstream, but most of it was dance-oriented and very tame. It was still a year away from the release of the album and two years away from the song that would cross it over for good. The album and song, of course, are both by Run DMC and Raising Hell and Walk This Way, respectively.

This film very broadly and comically details the story of the early rise of Run DMC, the people and artists around them in their neighborhood, and the creation of Def Jam Recordings by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin. It also shows a nice contrast between what the rap 'stars' of the time were producing versus the young artists coming up.

What makes the film unique is not the story but the cast. Everyone in the film except Simmons(he co-produced, consulted, and had a cameo), and a fictional character played by Sheila E is played by the actual people. Minor side characters are not either, but The Beastie Boys, Rubin, LL Cool J, MC Run, Darryl McDaniels, Kurtis Blow, and EVERYONE plays themselves in this story. That leads to various levels of performance quality, but the artists and story are likable enough to pull it off.

The story is not 100% accurate; this is a film, but the artists of the time, the musical transition, and the story through-line concerning Run DMC are authentic. The departures are in no way a distraction; most need to learn the specific history here, nor is it relevant.

All of this results in a charming, fun, and energetic film that gives an excellent feel for the period, an excellent overview of the beginning of the iconic Def Jam, and, above all else, fantastic music and early live performances by most of the early Def stable and others. Krush Groove is a time capsule, a history lesson, and a unique film gem. - Review by Cinemonster 

"Lionel Richie, don't work at no car wash."

Sure, in some ways, Krush Groove is incredibly 1985. However, spiritually, it belongs 30 or 40 years earlier because, at heart, it is a barely updated version of a much older kind of film, a film like (for instance) Rock Around The Clock, the kind in which a thin plot is used to string together as many performances as possible from a grab bag of musical acts of the day. So while you – as I did – might remember Krush Groove as a Run-DMC movie*, you also get old-school rap (Kurtis Blow), novelty rap (Fat Boys), new school hip hop (LL Cool J, Beastie Boys), boy band R'n'B (New Edition) and the genre I guess we could call Prince-and-chums (Sheila E) unless someone has a better name for it. Moreover, many of those acts get to do multiple songs – or the same song multiple times. -by The Minimalist 

References: 

Krush Groove. (2023, February). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krush_Groove#:~:text=Krush%20Groove%20is%20based%20on,Rush%20Management%20up%20and%20running.

THE STORY BEHIND "KRUSH GROOVE." (2021, January). Retrieved from https://rockthebells.com/articles/krush-groove/

BONUS: If you have never seen this film, here it is in its entirety.  Ladies and gentlemen, and PARTY PEOPLE IN THE HOUSE, I present to you one of my favorite films, Krush Groove!!!