Orange Krush

Formed by Larry Smith, who had previously played bass with Brighter Side of Darkness, along with guitarist Davey DMX—a former DJ for Kurtis Blow—and drummer Trevor Gale, Orange Krush stood among the earliest ensembles to fuse hip-hop with rock elements. As an influential act in the nascent days of Russell Simmons' Def Jam Records, they laid down tracks that later served as the foundation for Run D.M.C.'s seminal recordings, including "Sucker MC's" and "Hollis Crew." Although Smith and Simmons intended to grow the lineup with a female vocalist, the group dissolved, allowing its members to follow individual paths.