The journey began in 1983 when released their debut single, "It's Like That." Known for its minimalist, abrasive sound and socially conscious lyrics about unemployment and inflation, it is credited as the first hardcore hip-hop song.

The music video, which intercut RUN DMC’s original performance footage with Nevins’ energetic studio shots, became a staple on MTV Europe and The Box. For a generation of late‑’90s clubbers, this remix was the sound of Saturday night – a perfect bridge between hip‑hop’s old school and electronica’s new wave.