MF DOOM, 1971-2020, African-American rap artist, b. London, England, as Daniel Dumile. Although born in London, Dumile was raised on Long Island. He formed his first group, KMD, along with his brother, Dingilzwe (aka DJ Subroc), releasing their first album in 1991. While recording their second album, Subroc was struck by a car and killed. After a period of mourning the death of his brother, Dumille began performing as “Metal Face Doom,” wearing a mask in the style of the Marvel character, Doctor Doom. In 1999, he released the album Operation: Doomsday. His most successful recording was 2004’s Madvillainy, which he recorded with rap producer Madlib, followed by 2005’s The Mouse and the Mask, which teamed him with producer/rapper Danger Mouse. His last major solo album was 2009’s Born Like This, which he supported with a European tour. Having never requested US citizenship, Doom was denied reentry to the U.S. following his tour, and settled in London, working on occasion with various producers. Ambivalent about his fame, in some later appearances Doom sent out “imposters” sporting his facemask to appear in his stead.
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2024, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
See more Encyclopedia articles on: Music: Popular and Jazz: Biographies
