[Treeless Branch]

Run-D.M.C. existed way before gangasta rap. They were upbeat and positive and were one of the pioneers of rap, whn rap was based on strong lyrics (i.e. poetry) and character, rather than profanity, sex, guns and drugs.

As a 28 year old white male, I am very upset.

He was the king of rock
there was none higher
sucker MCS would call him sire
to dethron his kingdom, you must use fire
He won't stop rockin until he retires

[Major Matt Mason]

He won't stop rockin until he retires

Or, until he dies the gansta way, with a bullet in the cranium.

I sort of liked Run-DMC, but I refuse to elevate any rap artist to the level of groups that can actually play musical instruments. There simply is no comparison between rhyming words and playing a guitar or piano (or any instrument) well; or, for that matter, actually writing a song that has more to it than just a beat.

(climbs into flame-proof suit to repel flames being tossed his way by angry Gen-Xers)