As the album Run The Jewels 2 celebrates its 10-year anniversary, Killer Mike has shared a lesser-known detail about the involvement of producer The Alchemist in the project. Released on October 24, 2014, RTJ2 was pivotal in solidifying the duo of Killer Mike and El-P, leading to their rising success. The album received accolades, including Album of the Year from notable publications such as Stereogum and Pitchfork.
In an Instagram post reflecting on the anniversary, Killer Mike expressed gratitude for the impact of the album on their lives and careers, emphasizing the importance of The Alchemist and his late father in the process. He wrote, “10 years ago I dropped this album with my brother @thereallyrealelp (as our duo @RunTheJewels). RTJ2 changed our lives, validated our artistry in ways that it hadn’t in a long time, and built the foundation for one helluva run.” He acknowledged the support of their fans, referred to as “jewel runners,” for connecting with their art and attending shows worldwide.
Mike further paid tribute to friends Gangsta Boo and Ikey Owens, highlighting their special contributions to the album’s success. He added, “Little known facts: We recorded parts of this in @alanthechemist’s studio and got time to meet his old man. RIP, he was a G and I will always remember his kindness and words of wisdom.” He recalled his mindset during the recording, stating, “I was thinking like a fighter. Listen to my attitude and energy! ‘Let’s Go El P’!!!”
The collaboration between Killer Mike and El-P began with Killer Mike’s album Rap Music in 2012. In 2013, they announced their intention to release a joint album under the name Run the Jewels, quickly achieving success and expanding their fanbase.
Over the past decade, Run The Jewels has embarked on a remarkable journey, earning Grammy nominations, achieving gold-certified singles, and performing at major music festivals. Their endeavors have extended beyond music into areas such as art, beer, cannabis, film, and television.
Last year, to celebrate their 10-year partnership, Killer Mike and El-P performed their four albums across four concerts in major cities, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
Reflecting on the milestone, the duo stated, “It’s mind-blowing to us that it’s been 10 years since we joined forces as RTJ. The best way we can think to celebrate is to get the whole family together and do what we love for the people who love us back. It’s going to be amazing, just like this entire ride has been, and we are grateful to get a chance to celebrate with our Jewel Runners this year and finally get back into clubs to destroy some stages for you.”
Killer Mike and El-P outlined their plans for the anniversary performances, stating, “We’re doing four cities, four nights each, and four full albums worth of jams, many we have only performed a small handful of times during our whole existence. So on night one, it’s RTJ1 in full, plus many more songs from the other records; night two it’s RTJ2… etc. etc. We can’t wait to get out there and see you.”
Through this reflection, Killer Mike not only celebrates the success of Run The Jewels 2 but also highlights the collaborative spirit and the relationships that have contributed to the duo’s enduring legacy in the hip-hop community.
