Watch Run the Jewels’ Electrifying ‘Kimmel’ Performance
Killer Mike and El-P commanded Jimmy Kimmel Live!‘s outdoor stage on Thursday, performing the frenzied signature cut, “Run the Jewels,” from their 2013 debut LP. The duo brought their usual explosive energy, trading off verses and offering a brief scratching showcase for DJ Trackstar.
The group explored a more intimate, atmospheric mood with Run the Jewels 2 highlight “Crown.” Backed by swirling organ, psychedelic wah-wah and a trio of soulful backing singers, the rappers reflect on rising above the evil forces around them.
Earlier this month, Run the Jewels debuted the gritty animated clip for “Rubble Kings Theme (Dynamite),” the title track from the companion album to Shan Nicholson’s documentary Rubble Kings, which chronicles the development of New York City gang culture.
The duo made headlines this year by reimagining their acclaimed second LP, 2014’s Run the Jewels 2, as a cat-sample-themed remix album, Meow the Jewels. The project came to life after a fan launched a Kickstarter campaign based on the idea – and the fundraiser eclipsed its $45,000 goal after El-P announced plans to donate funds to charities benefitting the families of Michael Brown and Eric Garner.
The rappers released the LP as a free download in September, with a fur-covered 2-LP version arriving in November.