Renowned musician and hip-hop star unite to create exciting new band
A groundbreaking collaboration between a rock legend and a rap icon has emerged, resulting in the formation of a fresh musical duo. John Densmore, the esteemed drummer of The Doors, and Chuck D, the legendary rapper from Public Enemy, have joined forces to create an innovative group named doPE, derived from a combination of “doors” and “PE,” paying homage to their respective musical backgrounds.
Their inaugural album, titled “no country for old men,” is scheduled for release on April 18, coinciding with Record Store Day. The duo’s first single, “every tick tick tick,” has already garnered recognition as the Song of the Year for 2026 by Record Store Day.
The concept for this dynamic partnership was conceived when Densmore, a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and recipient of the Grammys Lifetime Achievement Award, and Chuck D, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013, crossed paths during a Record Store Day panel in 2014. Following this encounter, Chuck D reached out to Densmore with a proposal: “You’ve got the beats, I’ve got the rhymes, let’s make doPE.”
Densmore, renowned for his iconic work with The Doors alongside Jim Morrison and Robby Krieger, is not only a revered musician but also an accomplished actor, composer, and author. His collaborative endeavors have extended to working with electronic music sensation Skrillex on the track “Breakn’ a Sweat.”
Reflecting on the collaboration, Chuck D expressed admiration for Densmore’s unparalleled rhythmic talent, recognizing his significant contributions to shaping cultural moments through music over the decades. The amalgamation of their collective experiences and artistry exemplifies a fusion of past wisdom with contemporary innovation, bridging generational gaps and propelling musical evolution forward.
In a reciprocal sentiment, Densmore acknowledged the honor of collaborating with Chuck D, a musical luminary renowned for his dynamic contributions to the hip-hop genre and collaborations with an array of influential artists such as Anthrax, Prophets of Rage, Prince, LL Cool J, and Ice Cube.
The fusion of rock and rap genres through the collaborative efforts of these iconic figures heralds a new chapter in the music industry, promising a groundbreaking and culturally resonant musical experience for audiences worldwide. The forthcoming release of “no country for old men” marks a significant milestone in the evolution of musical expression, blending diverse influences and perspectives to create a truly unique and impactful listening experience.