Photo credits: Warner Brothers Pictures
Hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons and film producer Michael Schultz launched “Krush Groove” —the Hip-Hop glory days fairy tale about the early days of Def Jam in the Warner Brothers. It was released on October 25, 1985.
The Fat Boys, Run-D.M.C., Kurtis Blow, Jeckyl and Hyde, the Beastie Boys, and Sheila E. all starred as themselves in this cult classic, which was a semi-musical. The all-star cast appeared in the film whilst also being under Simmons and a young Rick Rubin’s management in real life. Simmons’ part was played by actor Blair Underwood (who was depicted in the film as Russell Walker).
The “Krush Groove” cinematic movement exhibited a roster of people back then, which would eventually become iconic figures.
The film also shows how Def Jam’s rookie and first solo artist, L.L. Cool J, was discovered at the record label’s makeshift headquarters — an NYU dorm shared by Simmons and Rubin called “the office.” Simmons played a small role in the film as well (portraying a club owner named Crocket).
The soundtrack for “Krush Groove” includes a number of classics, including The Fat Boys’ “All You Can Eat. The title track was performed by The Krush Groove All-Stars. Additionally, LL’s “I Can’t Live Without My Radio,” Kurtis Blow’s original “If I Ruled The World,” were featured on the movie soundtrack. Blow’s song was legendarily remixed by Nas and Lauryn Hill ten years following the film’s release.
A video for the “Krush Groovin” by The Krush Groove All-Stars can be viewed below.
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