Jams? Def: A Birthday Playlist for Rick Rubin

Today, March 10, is legendary producer Rick Rubin’s 47th birthday, he of epic beard fame. In the nearly three decades since he co-founded Def Jam records, Rubin’s signature stripped-down and minimalistic production style helped usher metal and hip-hop into the mainstream, and has become the dominant pop aesthetic of our time. So, in honor of Rubin’s birthday: a playlist featuring some of his best production work.

1. “Walk this Way” – Run DMC, Raising Hell

2. “Rock the Bells” – LL Cool J, Radio

3. “Dreams” – Brandi Carlile, Give Up the Ghost

4. “99 Problems” – Jay-Z, The Black Album

5. “I and Love and You” – The Avett Brothers, I and Love and You

6. “Raining Blood” – Slayer, Reign in Blood

7. “Fight for Your Right” – Beastie Boys, Licensed to Ill

8. “Hurt” – Johnny Cash, American IV: The Man Comes Around