The Raxon Edit of "It's Like That" (Run DMC vs. Jason Nevins) is a contemporary techno reimagining of the iconic 1997 remix. While the original Jason Nevins version transformed the 1983 hip-hop classic into a global "hip-house" anthem, Raxon's version adapts it for modern, underground dance floors. Key Features of the Raxon Edit
Hypnotic Techno Influence: Raxon, an Egyptian-born producer based in Barcelona, replaces the bouncy 90s house energy with a darker, more hypnotic techno groove.
Minimalist Soundscape: The edit emphasizes a driving bassline and atmospheric layers, stripping back some of the original's busier elements while keeping the legendary vocal hooks intact.
High-Profile Support: This specific edit gained significant traction in the club scene after being played by heavyweights like Sven Väth at major festivals such as Time Warp.
Availability: Unlike the commercial release of the Jason Nevins remix, the Raxon version is often shared as an unreleased "edit" or DJ tool, appearing on platforms like SoundCloud. Historical Context
Original (1983): Run DMC's debut single, known for its minimalist, "street-ready" sound.
Jason Nevins Remix (1997): A monumental hit that spent six weeks at #1 in the UK and famously broke the Spice Girls' streak of consecutive chart-toppers.
Impact: The Jason Nevins version is one of the best-selling singles of all time, selling roughly five million copies and bridging the gap between hip-hop and electronic music. Run DMC vs. Jason Nevins - It's Like That (Raxon Edit)
The track " It’s Like That " represents a fascinating evolution of hip-hop culture across four decades, transitioning from a gritty 1980s street anthem to a global house phenomenon, and finally to a modern techno weapon through the recent Raxon Edit The Roots: Run-D.M.C.’s 1983 Original
Released as their debut single, the original "It's Like That" was a revolutionary moment for "new school" hip-hop.
: Produced by Larry Smith, it featured a stark, abrasive, and minimalist beat that stood in sharp contrast to the disco-influenced rap of the late '70s.
: The lyrics focused on the harsh realities of life in Hollis, Queens—unemployment, rising prices, and death—while ultimately delivering a message of self-reliance and hope. The 1997 Global Explosion: Jason Nevins Remix Thirteen years later, American producer Jason Nevins
transformed the track into a cross-genre juggernaut by layering a "crunching" house beat over the original vocals. Chart Dominance
: It became one of the best-selling singles of all time, reaching #1 in over 30 countries. Pop Culture Impact : In the UK, it famously halted the Spice Girls'
record-breaking run of consecutive #1 hits. The music video, featuring a breakdancing battle between male and female crews in a warehouse, became an iconic visual of the late '90s. The Underground Revival: The Raxon Edit In recent years, Egyptian-born, Barcelona-based DJ
breathed new life into the track for the modern techno circuit.
: Raxon’s version is a "hardgroove" or techno-leaning edit that preserves the iconic vocal "It's like that / and that's the way it is" while introducing hypnotic, driving beats suited for dark warehouses and festivals. Cultural Resurgence : Initially an unreleased "bootleg," the Raxon Edit
gained massive traction after being championed by heavyweights like Maceo Plex Adam Beyer Sven Väth at major festivals.
: After years of being a sought-after "ID" in DJ sets, the edit eventually saw a physical release on vinyl. SoundCloud
The journey from a 1983 social commentary to a 1997 pop-dance hit and a 2020s techno staple proves that the core energy of Run-D.M.C.’s debut remains "the way it is" across generations. of classic hip-hop tracks?
The Unlikely Mashup that Became a Classic: RUN DMC, Jason Nevins, and "It's Like That"
In the world of music, collaborations and mashups are nothing new. But sometimes, it's the most unexpected combinations that lead to something truly special. One such example is the iconic mashup of RUN DMC's "It's Like That" with Jason Nevins' "Raxon E..." - a fusion that not only brought together two distinct musical styles but also became a chart-topping hit. RUN DMC- Jason Nevins - It-s Like That -Raxon E...
The Original Tracks
For those who may not be familiar, let's take a brief look at the original tracks. RUN DMC's "It's Like That" was released in 1983 and was one of the group's earliest hits. The song's laid-back, hip-hop beats and catchy lyrics helped establish RUN DMC as a force to be reckoned with in the rap world.
On the other hand, Jason Nevins' "Raxon E..." (often mistakenly referred to as "Raxon") is a lesser-known track with a more obscure origin. Nevins, an American DJ and producer, had been experimenting with electronic music in the late 1990s. His song "Raxon E..." featured a driving beat and infectious melody that would later become the perfect complement to RUN DMC's classic hit.
The Mashup Magic
In 2002, a DJ and producer (often credited as DJ Tom) decided to merge the two tracks, creating a mashup that would come to be known as "It's Like That (Raxon E...)" or simply "It's Like That" (feat. Jason Nevins). The result was nothing short of magic. The energetic beat of "Raxon E..." breathed new life into RUN DMC's timeless lyrics, while the rap group's signature style added a level of authenticity to Nevins' electronic track.
The Impact
The mashup's impact was immediate. "It's Like That" shot up the charts, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the US, UK, and Australia. The song's success can be attributed to its clever blend of old and new, appealing to both fans of classic hip-hop and electronic dance music.
The mashup also helped introduce RUN DMC's music to a new generation of listeners, while showcasing Jason Nevins' production skills to a wider audience. To this day, "It's Like That" remains a staple of mashup playlists and a testament to the power of creative collaboration.
Legacy
The "It's Like That" mashup has become a beloved classic, often cited as one of the greatest mashups of all time. Its influence can be heard in later mashups and collaborations, and it continues to inspire DJs and producers to experiment with new sounds.
In conclusion, the unlikely union of RUN DMC's "It's Like That" and Jason Nevins' "Raxon E..." resulted in a timeless mashup that has left a lasting impact on the music world. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations can lead to something truly special.
What's your favorite mashup or collaboration? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Here are a few post ideas for the Edit of the Jason Nevins classic, depending on where you're posting: Option 1: The "Hype" Post (Best for Reels/TikTok)
That moment when the bass hits on the Raxon Edit... ⚡️ Taking a 90s anthem and turning it into a dark dancefloor weapon. This one has been doing damage in the sets lately! 🔊
#Rundmc #JasonNevins #ItsLikeThat #Raxon #TechnoRemix #HouseMusic #ElectronicMusic #NewMusic
Option 2: The "Nostalgia" Post (Best for Instagram/Facebook)
"Unemployment at a record high..." 🎤 The message is as relevant now as it was in '83, but
just gave it a futuristic facelift. Old school meets the new wave. Who remembers the original 1997 remix battle ? 👟🔥
#OldSchool #90sNostalgia #RaxonEdit #HipHouse #TechnoCommunity #RunDMC Option 3: Short & Punchy (Best for X/Twitter)
Raxon really went in on this RUN DMC edit. 🛸 That driving low-end is everything. "It's like that, and that's the way it is!" 🗣️💨 Listen to the Raxon Edit on Soundcloud
The Enduring Legacy of RUN DMC's "It's Like That" The Raxon Edit of "It's Like That" (Run DMC vs
In 1988, RUN DMC, a pioneering rap group from Hollis, Queens, teamed up with producer Jason Nevins to create a mashup that would become one of the most iconic songs of the late 1980s: "It's Like That (Raxon Edit)". The track combined RUN DMC's signature rap style with Nevins' innovative production techniques, resulting in a fusion of hip-hop, rock, and pop that captivated audiences worldwide.
The Original Song
The original "It's Like That" was released in 1983 on RUN DMC's self-titled debut album. The song's catchy hook and lyrics, which addressed the struggles of everyday life, resonated with listeners and helped establish the group as a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop scene.
The Mashup
Fast-forward to 1988, when Jason Nevins, a rising star in the DJ and production scene, decided to create a mashup of RUN DMC's "It's Like That" and Raxon's 1984 hit "Mary Jane". Nevins' vision was to bring together the best elements of both tracks, blending RUN DMC's energetic rap style with Raxon's infectious hook. The result was a high-energy dance track that injected new life into both songs.
The Impact
The "It's Like That (Raxon Edit)" mashup became an instant hit, topping the charts in several countries, including the US, UK, and Australia. The song's innovative production and seamless blending of styles helped to introduce RUN DMC's music to a new generation of listeners, while also cementing Nevins' reputation as a talented producer.
Legacy
The influence of "It's Like That (Raxon Edit)" can still be felt today. The song has been widely sampled and referenced in popular culture, with artists such as Jay-Z and Kanye West citing it as an inspiration. The mashup also paved the way for future collaborations between artists from different genres, demonstrating the power of creative experimentation in music.
Key Facts
Conclusion
RUN DMC's "It's Like That (Raxon Edit)" is more than just a catchy song – it's a testament to the innovative spirit of hip-hop and the power of creative collaboration. The mashup's enduring legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and producers, ensuring its place in music history as a groundbreaking and iconic track.
Raxon Edit of "It’s Like That" (Run-DMC vs. Jason Nevins) is a high-energy modern techno tool
that reinvents the 1997 classic with a darker, hypnotic aesthetic
. Unlike the house-heavy original, Raxon’s version focuses on driving percussion and "stripped-back" peak-time elements. Production Breakdown & Guide 1. Foundation: The Groove Typically sits between 128–130 BPM , common for peak-time techno sets. Replace the original house-style kick with a heavy, distorted techno kick
. Layer it with a "rumble" sub-bass to create a rolling low-end foundation. Percussion:
Use crisp, tight hi-hats and a rhythmic clap on the 2 and 4. Raxon often incorporates minimal but driving industrial-style percussion to maintain forward motion. SoundCloud 2. Vocal Processing
Sample the "It's Like That" and "Huh!" vocal snippets from the Jason Nevins version. Technique: high-pass filter
and heavy compression to make the vocals sit "on top" of the driving beat. Use rhythmic delay (dotted 1/8th or 1/4 notes) on specific phrases like "and that's the way it is" to create a hypnotic atmosphere. 3. Synthesizers & Stabs Use a dark, detuned minor-key synth stab (likely in
Apply a bit of half-note delay to these stabs to fill out the stereo field without cluttering the mix. 4. Structure & Arrangement
Start with 32–64 bars of pure percussion and the sub-rumble for easy DJ mixing. Release Date: 1988 Original Song: "It's Like That"
Gradually introduce the filtered vocal and a rising "shutter" synth or noise sweep.
In this edit, the "drop" isn't a melodic explosion; it's a transition back into the heavy kick and the main vocal hook, focusing on impact and groove rather than melody. Key Resources Reference Track: You can listen to the full version on SoundCloud (Raxon Edit) Style Match:
For producers aiming for this sound, templates for "Modern Techno" or "Trance Techno" can provide the necessary processing chains. SoundCloud drum rack setups that match this dark techno style?
This report explores the cultural trajectory of "It's Like That,"
focusing on its evolution from a 1983 hip-hop anthem to the legendary 1997 Jason Nevins remix, and finally to the contemporary Raxon Edit 1. The Foundation: RUN DMC (1983) "It's Like That" was the debut single for , released in 1983 on Profile Records . It is historically significant for: Pioneering "New School" Hip-Hop:
Its minimalist, abrasive sound moved away from the disco-influenced rap of the late 70s. Social Commentary:
The lyrics tackled unemployment, inflation, and social strife while maintaining a message of hope and self-belief. 2. The Global Explosion: Jason Nevins Remix (1997) In 1997, house DJ Jason Nevins transformed the track into a massive dance hit. Commercial Success: This version sold approximately five million copies
worldwide and held the #1 spot in many countries, famously keeping the Spice Girls' "Stop" from hitting the top spot in the UK.
It bridged the gap between hip-hop and electronic dance music (EDM), reintroducing RUN DMC to a new generation. 3. The Modern Perspective: The Raxon Edit Raxon Edit is a contemporary reimagining by
(Ahmed Raxon), an Egyptian-born, Barcelona-based techno producer known for his architectural approach to sound. tulum party
“RUN DMC- Jason Nevins - It's Like That - Raxon E...”
Based on that, I’ll assume you want an in-depth piece that connects Run-DMC, Jason Nevins, the mashup/remix of “It’s Like That”, and the artist Raxon (possibly Raxon E., a producer/DJ known for electronic and tech-house).
Below is a detailed article exploring the history, impact, and evolution of this iconic track — from its hip-hop origins to its big beat revival and eventual rework in modern electronic music.
Provide a clear, reproducible method to analyze and reflect on this remix/edit so you can: (A) understand its production and arrangement choices, (B) evaluate its musical and cultural impact, and (C) apply lessons to your own remixing or listening practice.
| Element | Original (1983) | Nevins Remix (1998) | |---------|----------------|----------------------| | Tempo | ~95 bpm | ~128 bpm | | Drum pattern | Sparse, live-sounding rim shots + claps | Four-on-the-floor kick, layered snare, hi-hat rolls | | Bass | None (only low-end from drum hits) | Sub-bass drop + filtered synth bass | | Structure | Verse-chorus-verse, minimal breakdowns | Extended intro, breakdowns with filter sweeps, DJ-friendly loops | | Vocal use | Dry, center-panned | Doubled, delayed, with reverb drops |
Nevins isolated the acapella of Run (Joseph Simmons) and D.M.C. (Darryl McDaniels), then built a loop around the iconic “It’s like that – and that’s the way it is” hook. The remix relies on tension-release dynamics typical of 1990s club music: a filtered intro, a sudden bass drop at 0:32, and breakdowns that strip to just percussion before re-introducing the full beat.
Licensed to XL Recordings in the UK, the remix exploded:
It also introduced Run-DMC to a new generation of ravers, many of whom had never heard the 1983 version. The Jason Nevins remix became a bridge between hip-hop purists and electronic music fans — a true crossover moment.
“Jason Nevins took our song and made it brand new for the clubs. Kids who didn’t know hip-hop were suddenly screaming the lyrics.” — Darryl “DMC” McDaniels
Fast forward to 1997. Jason Nevins, a New York-based DJ and producer known for his work in the hip-hop and dance underground, took the acapella of “It’s Like That” and rebuilt it from the ground up.
Nevins added:
The result was raw, relentless, and impossibly catchy. Nevins’ remix retained the grit of the original but pushed it into dancefloor territory — something few had attempted with golden-era hip-hop.