#VitalFactz: 20th Anniversary - RIP Jam Master Jay

It was 20 Years ago today that the Hip Hop Industry suffered yet another tragic loss. Run D.M.C.'s career long DJ Jam Master Jay (Born Jason William Mizell) was gunned down in his recording studio in Queens, NYC. I remember being at work when the announcement was being made on the Hot 97 radio station. Like everyone else at the job, I was shocked when I heard it. The shooting was believed to have been an inside job. However, after years of running into brick walls, law enforcement finally hit paydirt. In 2020, Ronald Washington & Karl Jordan Jr. were indicted for Mizell's murder, which was allegedly over a drug deal gone sour. Both have pleaded not guilty & the case has not yet gone to trial. Jason played a huge part in the success of Run-D.M.C., bigger than most people (who were not in their circle) realize. The group's overall persona was his brainchild, from their trademark hats & leather suits, to their trademark Shell Toe Adidas. That was all his idea. The surviving members Daryl McDaniels (DMC) & Joe Simmons (Run) have rarely performed together since then. They felt it would never be the same. Who in their right mind could ever argue that? Jason is survived by 3 sons & a daughter. His demise has left a void in the culture that can never be filled. Rest In Peace Jason William Mizell, gone but never forgotten.