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.
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