24 years ago today, Run DMC member Jam Master Jay was murdered on October 30, 2002, at the age of 37.

We pay tribute to Jason Mizell, whose talent and passion helped change #hiphop forever. As the DJ and musical backbone of Run DMC, alongside Run and DMC, he helped take hip-hop from the streets of New York to the world.

More than a DJ, Jay was a pioneer and inspiration to generations. His incredible turntable skills helped define hip-hop’s golden age. Run DMC broke barriers with hits like “It’s Like That,” “Rock Box,” “King of Rock” and “Walk This Way,” becoming one of hip-hop’s most influential groups and earning induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.

Jay did it because hip-hop was his passion, his voice and his way of bringing people together. He believed in the culture, inspired young artists and helped open doors for the next generation. His legacy proves that dreams born in the neighbourhood can reach the entire world.

May he rest in peace and his legacy continue to be remembered.